By SABRINA BERNDT

Washington Daily News

With summer coming to a close, one local organization plans to celebrate its end with a traditional low country boil.

The Washington Harbor District Alliance will be hosting its annual Pickin’ on the Pamlico event Sept. 21, from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. The fundraiser at Festival Park is not only an opportunity to grab some great food with friends, but it is also a chance to support the WHDA and its efforts in changing downtown Washington for the better.

“Last year’s (event) was a little tough, because the weekend we were supposed to have it was the hurricane,” said WHDA’s Executive Director Meg Howdy. “But this allows for us to focus on projects for downtown: supporting our merchants, working with Tourism and the Chamber and other entities so that we can really help Washington shine.”

According to Howdy, she decided to switch up the event because it had become such a tradition in the Washington community. The event previously provided boiled crabs for participants to pick, but attendees should now expect an all-you-can-eat low country boil by Same Power Ministries & Catering, which includes shrimp, corn, sausage, potatoes and more.

Pickin’ on the Pamlico will also welcome a new band, The Nigel Experience, which specializes in most genres, ranging from Motown to modern rock.

“They’re a great party band out of the Raleigh area,” Howdy said. “They do a wide variety of music. They’re great for getting out and dancing.”

There are multiples tiers for tickets, including a music-only ticket for $25, a music and food ticket for $55 and a table sponsorship ticket for $1,000, which includes 10 seats and a table-decorating contest.

All of the proceeds from ticket sales will be used to assist the WHDA in its downtown projects, such as the Main Street Program, the Harbor District Market and general support for local businesses.

“It’s a fundraiser, so raising money is obviously important,” Howdy said. ”But it’s a time for people to come together with their friends and neighbors with a beautiful view of the Pamlico River, enjoy local music, fresh local food and just have fun being with each other. It’s the people that make Washington so great.”

The event will be rain or shine, with the rain location being the Harbor District Market located at 140 W. Main St.

To buy a ticket or table sponsorship, visit the Washington Harbor District Alliance on Facebook.