Crittenden, Eclipse and Hobson Ruritans will have mouths watering when they serve up a large batch of local oysters during their annual fundraising roast Nov. 9.

The event will take place at the Ruritan Hall on Eclipse Drive from 1 to 5 p.m.

Roast co-organizer Butch Simonetti said homemade clam chowder and oyster fritters will also be served up.

In all, 40 to 50 bushels of oysters from local outfit Johnson and Sons Seafood will be served up, he said. Folks will also be able to purchase oysters by the bushel to take home.

“It’s one of the top three fundraisers we have,” Simonetti said. “It’s a real nice event; it’s the most fun event I like to put on.”

Proceeds from the roast fund Fourth of July fireworks, the scholarship fund, and families in need during the holidays, he said.

Simonetti said the roast brings in as much money as the club’s Beer, Bands and BBQ event in the spring, drawing 400 to 500 people.

“It’s a very casual atmosphere,” he said. “People come from all over the place. One of the main things we are known for is keeping the tables loaded with oysters.”

It’s a rare oyster roast in that there’s a live band, he said. Local band The Baddaz has been playing the event for eight years. “They play all around Hampton Roads,” Simonetti said.

Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 at the door. Advance tickets are available by calling 377-4520 or 478-9059, and at The Market, 1604 Bridge Road, and Rio Grande Traders, 3057 Kings Highway.

“It’s a rain or shine event,” Simonetti said. “Hopefully it will be all shine and no rain.”