Submitted
6:30 p.m. Jan. 26
There’s no better way to kick off 2019 and Waterworks’ 60th year than at the 14th Annual Oyster Roast on Saturday, Jan. 26. Beginning at 6:30 p.m. revelers will enter the event through the front doors of Waterworks Visual Arts Center, 123 E. Liberty St., and follow the crowd into the F&M Trolley Barn, where a bountiful spread of delectable seafood and barbecue awaits. Mounds of steamed oysters for shucking and shrimp for peeling, by Big Daddy’s of Lake Norman, plus barbecue pork sliders by locally-famous College Barbecue, and numerous side dishes are sure to satisfy every taste. Wine, local ales provided by United Beverage, Cheerwine and soft drinks will flow all evening. Treat yourself to a scoop of Cold Stone Creamery ice cream for dessert.
Steam billowing from the oyster wagons just outside the Trolley Barn will provide the perfect ambiance for the evening’s festivities. Dance to the rhythms of music provided by local deejay Errin Brown of Virtual Sounds until 11 p.m.

Tickets are $85 per person for all you can eat, drink and dance, plus an outstanding silent auction not to be missed. Waterworks members pay only $80. Tickets may be purchased anytime online at www.waterworks.org, or come by Waterworks, 123 East Liberty St. in Salisbury, Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

A valued and integral part of the Salisbury community today, Waterworks Visual Arts Center began in 1959 when 26 local artists joined to form the Rowan Art Guild. Nineteen years later the Guild finally occupied its first permanent home, a building at 310 W. Kerr St. that had previously served as the city’s water department, City Hall and police headquarters. Waterworks Visual Arts Center became the official name of the organization, marking its emergence as a regional arts center. Fifteen years ago this month, following a successful $2.8 million capital campaign and subsequent renovation, Waterworks relocated to its present address in the old McCanless Motor Company building donated by F&M Bank. Accredited by the American Association of Museums, Waterworks welcomes 25,000 visitors annually, representing 39 states and six foreign countries.

The Oyster Roast is a major annual fundraiser for Waterworks, which benefits educational and outreach programs at Waterworks Visual Arts Center. Having fun while supporting the ARTS is surely reason enough to attend, however the silent auction may be the biggest incentive of all. Auction tables will be filled with exciting items, generously donated by local individuals and businesses. If you would like to become an Oyster Roast sponsor, or donate an auction item, contact Waterworks at admin@waterworks.org, or call 704-636-1882.