Robotics Tournament, Oyster Week and Seed Festival Lead Chesapeake Headlines

It is a busy start to the weekend in Chesapeake, with students, seafood lovers and gardeners all finding something to celebrate.

FIRST Robotics Competition at Hickory High

The FIRST Chesapeake Robotics Competition is underway at Hickory High School, running March 20 through March 22. High school teams from across the region are competing in this season’s engineering challenge, putting months of design and programming work to the test.

The event draws families, mentors and local industry supporters, turning the school into a high-energy arena of whirring robots and cheering crowds. Organizers say the competition not only showcases technical skills but also builds teamwork and career pathways in science and technology.

Chesapeake Oyster Week Begins

Chesapeake Oyster Week also kicks off today, running through March 31. Participating restaurants across Virginia and neighboring states are featuring oyster specials, with a focus on supporting oyster restoration efforts in the Chesapeake Bay.

A portion of proceeds and shell recycling efforts will help fund reef restoration projects aimed at improving water quality and marine habitat. Local diners can take part simply by ordering oysters at participating locations and ensuring shells are recycled.

Seed and Agriculture Festival Set for March 28

Looking ahead, the Chesapeake Public Library is preparing for its Seed and Agriculture Festival on Saturday, March 28, at the Major Hillard Public Library. The free event will highlight gardening, small-scale agriculture and environmental stewardship.

Community partners will offer gardening advice, educational displays and free seeds and plants while supplies last. Activities are planned for both children and adults, making it a family-friendly way to welcome the spring growing season.

Sources

https://www.firstchesapeake.org/event-details/first-chesapeake-chesapeake-va-event
https://news.maryland.gov/mda/press-release/2026/03/10/news-release-time-to-chow-down-and-celebrate-chesapeake-oyster-week-march-20-31/
https://chesapeakelibrary.org/m/newsflash/Home/Detail/180