Newport News Parks, Recreation, and Tourism is joining with Harvey Lindsay Commercial Real Estate to present the City Center Oyster Roast on Friday, October 20, from 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.  The event features music by The Deloreans, local seafood, a variety of beverages, and activities.

Harpoon Larry’s Fish and Oyster Bar has partnered with the event organizers to provide raw and roasted oysters and other signature dishes.  Additional local food vendors include Capt’n Crabby, Pennsylvania Dutch Funnel Cake of Virginia, Couture Cakes by Nika, and Mam Neem’s Mobile Seafood.  Beverage sales (beer, wine, and bourbon) benefit the Warwick Ruritan Club.  

The evening’s activities include lawn games, demonstrations and art.  Wine and Design Newport News is offering guests the opportunity to create their own painting on an 8” x 10” canvas for $5.00 (all supplies and instruction included).  The Working Watermen is demonstrating crab pot making and guests can climb a tower to practice oyster tonging.  Naval Rope Works demonstrating the historical development of rope making using authentic techniques, materials, and equipment.

In support of the City’s sustainability initiatives, “eco stations” are being placed throughout the event area.  Event guests are encouraged to recycle trash in containers provided by Bay Disposal, place empty oyster shells in the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s bushel baskets, and place food leftovers in the N.O.P.E (Natural Organic Processes Enterprises) containers for food composting.  Each recycled oyster shell is being used to rebuild oyster habitats throughout Virginia. 

Admission and parking are free. Blankets and chairs are welcome. Outside alcoholic beverages and pets are not permitted in the event area.  For additional information, call 757-926-1400 or visit www.nnparks.com.  Updates and announcements (including weather-related announcements) will be posted on Facebook.com/NewportNewsFestivals and Twitter @nnfestivals.