Metal nights and morning bites: Watermark Vicksburg keeps it fresh

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — From thrash metal legends Exhorder to Jazz brunch, it’s been a busy, ever-evolving year for Amber Morton and Daryl Hollingsworth, owners of the Watermark Vicksburg. The two have been steadily expanding their efforts to bring diverse entertainment and dining experiences to downtown Vicksburg.

“It’s been kind of a crazy year,” Morton said. “We’ve been branching out with live shows and new ideas, trying to keep things fresh.”

The Watermark Vicksburg has for years been a rental space hosting weddings and other private events, but after their decision to get their liquor license, the two have been able to branch out to hosting events themselves.

The venue has also opened their doors to underground bands, including Exhorder, New Orleans thrash groove legends last week.

“We started doing Friday night shows after the Biscuit Company closed,” she said. “Downtown needed something. We’ve tried different bands—some work, some don’t—it’s just always evolving. We’re just trying to come up with something different—something we don’t already have.”

Two years ago, the Watermark Vicksburg also launched a Sunday jazz brunch, which continues to be a steady success. More recently, the kitchen is the new home of Soulful Addiction for weekday breakfast service from 5:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“When we don’t have private events, we’re always looking for new ways to bring people in—new bands, new ideas,” she said. “Vicksburg has a diverse crowd. We want to keep trying, keep experimenting, and not be boxed in.”