From the Washington Tourism and Development Authority 

The Washington Tourism Authority is excited to host the annual East Carolina Wildlife Arts Festival for the 21st consecutive year. This year’s festival will begin on Friday, Feb. 5 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Washington Civic Center and First South Bank sportsman tent.

“This event always provides a wonderful opportunity for outdoors enthusiasts of all ages to appreciate breathtaking artwork, talented decoy artists and learn more about wildlife in eastern North Carolina,” says Lynn Wingate, the director of the festival. “Our artists come to Washington from all across the country to showcase their beautiful work and unique talents.”

The festival will continue on Saturday, Feb. 6, and Sunday, Feb 7, with the N.C. Decoy Carving Championship. In addition to the Washington Civic Center, events and exhibits will be held at Historic Downtown Washington attractions including the Turnage Theatre, Festival Park and the NC Estuarium. Winning artwork for the 2017 North Carolina Waterfowl Conservation Stamp will be on display, and most artists will have a selection of prints and original art available for purchase. Following the closing of the Wildlife Festival, a dinner and auction event at the Washington Yacht & Country Club will feature wildlife sculptures, paintings, guided trips and winning decoys from the N.C. Decoy Carving Championships.

All area residents and their families are invited to attend. One-day passes may be purchased on the day of the event at the Washington Civic Center for $7, or three-day weekend passes are available for $12. Children under 12 get in free.

For more information about the East Carolina Wildlife Arts Festival, please visit www.ecwaf.com or call 252-948-9415.