Waterman’s Brewing will host the inaugural Wrightsville Beach Oyster Festival, sponsored by Pints for Purpose Inc., on Saturday.

The festival is being held in support of the North Carolina Shellfish Growers Association. The NCSGA was founded in 1995 to represent the interests of those involved in the shellfish industry. As such, it has a broad base of members, including shellfish farmers, hatchery operators, seafood dealers, educators, researchers, government regulators and service providers.
 
The organization is an independent group controlled and operated by people in the industry that strives to provide insight into the many issues affecting shellfish. Some of these issues include shellfish sanitation and safety, the use of public waters and the economic and environmental value of a shellfish industry.

The NCSGA  serves as a forum for members to compare methods and materials, discuss important issues and encourage the growth of a prosperous shellfish industry.
 
Oyster harvesters from throughout the state will be serving oysters at the festival, including N. Sea. Oyster Co. of Wilmington.
 
General admission tickets are available for $5, with oysters available for purchase, or VIP tickets are being sold for $35 and include all-you-can-eat raw oysters while supplies last.  Tickets are available online. 
 
During the event, Folkstone String Band will perform from noon to 2 p.m. with Turquoise Traders to follow from 2:30 to 5 p.m.
 
Waterman’s Brewing is located at 1610 Pavillion Place.
 
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