The Pender County Tourism Development Authority  announces that two local festivals earned  Excellence Awards  from the  North Carolina Association of Festivals & Events.

 

Ocean Fest , a Topsail Island-based festival featuring live music, vintage surf competitions and environmental programming, received the award for Best Event Poster in the Medium Category, which represents festivals with budgets exceeding $25,000.

 

“Ocean Fest’s goal is to have a successful community event while infusing eco education. Being able to help make changes in our area and support like-minded conservation efforts is why we do what we do.” said Liz Trojan, Ocean Fest director.

“We appreciate the recognition and the support of the Pender County Tourism Development Authority for our local festivals and events.”

 

In the Small Category, which includes festivals with budgets under $25,000, the  N.C. Blueberry Festival  received three awards: Best Event T-Shirt for the Chili Cook-Off, Best Event Poster for the Pancake Breakfast and Best Merchandise for the cornhole boards.

 

“We are honored to accept the awards,” said Crystal Batts, director of the NC Blueberry Festival. “The awards are recognition of the hard work and planning by the festival committee. Festivals and events impact our local economy and enrich our quality of life.”

 

The  Ocean City Jazz Festival , based in Onslow County yet generates economic impact in Pender County, earned the Excellence Award for Best Merchandise for its canvas print and Best Print Media in the Large Category.

 

“While festivals and events are fun for the public, they require significant effort from the volunteers who make them possible,” said  Susan Griffin ,  chair of the Pender County Tourism Development Authority.  “These events have a tremendous impact on our local economy, and we appreciate the directors, coordinators and volunteers who make Pender County an outstanding place to visit.”

 

The North Carolina Association of Festivals & Events hosts the annual Excellence Awards during ShowFest, a gathering of professionals from tourism and events. It is a membership organization. The Pender County Tourism Development Authority is a proud member of the North Carolina Association of Festivals & Events.