BURGAW - Pender County events and festivals took home honors from the NC Association of Festivals and Events (NCAFE) Annual ShowFest in Charlotte. NCAFE recognizes outstanding events and festivals from across the state.
“We are thrilled to announce, that Ocean Fest and Burgaw’s New Year's Eve Blueberry Drop are the 2024 NC Association of Festivals & Events Excellence Award Winners,” said Stephanie Key, Tourism Assistant, who represented Pender County at ShowFest.
Ocean Fest was the recipient of Best Merchandise, Student Choice, and Best T-Shirt. The New Year’s Eve Blueberry Drop was again awarded Best Poster for its event promotion.
"It means so much for Ocean Fest to be recognized by the North Carolina Festivals & Events Association again this year," says Executive Director Mark Anders. "Our team of volunteers works so hard throughout the year to pull off this event each October so it's really gratifying for our team to win state-wide awards like these."
Pender County Tourism, The Town of Burgaw, and Ocean Fest all association members, submitted entries into various offered award-winning categories for each event. The awards program allows the association to honor and recognize festivals and events that took place during the 2023 calendar year.
“We have seen an increasing popularity of the event, coupled with the recognition it has garnered across the state through this organization.,’’ stated Cody Suggs, Town of Burgaw Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Director. “The event is a collaborative partnership with Pender County Tourism, Pender County Parks & Recreation, and the North Carolina Blueberry Festival.”
“Each of our events and festivals is distinct and built on tradition, contributing significantly to the economic vitality of our communities.,” said Olivia Dawson, Pender County Tourism Director. "We take pride in knowing these events have earned and received these recognitions.”
The Annual Show Fest Event Innovators Conference is held in Charlotte, NC. Conference attendees included festival & event planners and industry professionals. NCAFE celebrated 35 years of being a great organization for events and festivals. For more information about NCAFE visit online at www.ncfestivals.com
