WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina and the City of Wilmington are pleased to host the 76th Annual North Carolina Azalea Festival; and
WHEREAS, this proud North Carolina tradition draws visitors to our port city year after year 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, the North Carolina Azalea Festival, in the spirit of being a festival for all North Carolinians and guests, has chosen Mexico as its honored country for the inaugural Azalea Festival “International Blooms” program; and
WHEREAS, the North Carolina Azalea Festival promotes our tourism industry and encourages visitors to explore what makes our state a wonderful place to live from the mountains to the coast;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim April 12 – 16, 2023, as “NORTH CAROLINA AZALEA FESTIVAL” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.