Hickory – Catawba Science Center is  kicking off our week long virtual fundraising auction with a bang! Join us for a free drive-in fireworks show at the Hickory Crawdads Stadium, on Saturday, September 26th to help us celebrate. Gates open at 7:30 pm. Fireworks begin at 8:30 pm.

Bring your family and maybe a picnic to enjoy the show from your vehicle in the parking lot. Cash donations will be collected to help fund our #SparkScience campaign. Fireworks will take place rain or shine. More details on the virtual auction coming soon!

Keeping Science Essential

As an independent non-profit organization and beloved regional treasure, Catawba Science Center (CSC) is facing unprecedented financial challenges because of the impact of our 20-week closure and reduced operations. In these uncertain times, we know that the role of science is more important than ever.

By North Carolina State order, we have been closed to the public since March 17th, 2020. To date, this has led to a significant loss in revenue for Catawba Science Center. Even when we are cleared to reopen, the financial challenge will remain daunting due to decreased visits from individual members and schools. Our future is uncertain and intimidating.

How Your Contribution Will Help!

Maintaining and caring for animals, as well as infrastructure like aquarium maintenance and utilities are a continuing expense for the Science Center whether the facility is open or not. The overhead of the Science Center is significant due to costs like thousands a year in salt for our aquaria and food to feed the 700+ animals who call CSC home.

We are 100% dependent on visitor revenue and philanthropy. CSC collects no direct funds from the City of Hickory or Catawba County. We depend on individual support to power our team and the education programs inspiring curious minds to dream, discover, understand, and innovate. Donations directly fund everything we do — from the development of new and innovative science education programs to our daily operations to inspire and serve over 100,000 guests each year.

Also announcing that Catawba Science Center and our SALT Block Foundation partners are excited to be included in the Governor’s reopening phase 2.5 announcement! We began a phased opening with educational programs on September 8th offered in multiple formats for all ages including in person and virtual events. We will open to the public for general visitation on Thursday, October 1st, to allow time for staff to return and complete improvement projects.

The health and safety of our guests and staff are important to all of us here on the SALT Block. CDC approved measures have been implemented to help ensure a safer experience in our facilities. We are thrilled to continue offering science fun to our community.

Questions? Call 828-322-8169.