WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina and the City of Wilmington are pleased to host the 74th Annual North Carolina Azalea Festival; and
WHEREAS, this proud North Carolina tradition has historically drawn visitors to our port city to enjoy the beauty of nature, entertainment, a street fair, a parade, and riverfront attractions; and
WHEREAS, in addition to stunning floral displays, the North Carolina Azalea Festival celebrates the arts and history of Wilmington; and
WHEREAS, this year, in compliance with COVID-19 safety guidelines, festivities will be smaller and socially distanced; and
WHEREAS, while things may look a little different this year, the North Carolina Azalea Festival remains an important facet of our state’s tourism industry and we encourage people to take this opportunity to explore what makes North Carolina a wonderful place to live in from the mountains to the coast;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim April 7 – 11, 2021, as “NORTH CAROLINA AZALEA FESTIVAL SEASON” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.