Wilkes EDC participated in MerleFest as a sponsor and attendee, utilizing the festival as an opportunity to welcome and host guests from across North Carolina.
The Wilkes EDC team also attended Chamber Night hosted by the Wilkes Chamber of Commerce, joining local businesses, government leaders, and community organizations in celebrating one of Wilkes County’s signature events.
The EDC’s Guests included site selectors, state and regional economic development partners, LEAP Forward Investors, and other business and industry leaders that Wilkes EDC has worked with throughout the year.
Wilkes EDC recognizes MerleFest as an important opportunity to showcase the community’s quality of life, outdoor amenities, hospitality, and economic boost to local businesses. Through LEAP Forward private funding, Wilkes EDC distributed 150 Wilkes County branded tote bags through the Wilkes Tourism booth during the festival weekend. EDC guests were additionally provided an Outdoor Amenity Voucher, encouraging visitors to explore participating local businesses and outdoor destinations throughout Wilkes County over the next six months. The voucher program was made possible through collaboration with local businesses, including C’est La Vin, Wine & Provisions; Cook’s Sports; Dooley’s Grill & Tavern; Growing Faith Farms; Hidden Brook Sporting Club; Jones von Drehle Vineyards & Winery; Leatherwood Mountain Resort; The Lost Wombat; Piccione Vineyards; Raffaldini Vineyards & Winery; TwoBoros Brewery; and Wisdom Brewing. We welcome other outdoor amenity businesses to contact us and join in this effort next year.
Wilkes EDC appreciates Wilkes Community College, festival sponsors, volunteers, and community partners for their continued efforts in making MerleFest a successful event and a valuable opportunity to highlight Wilkes County.
