7th Annual Hickory's Heritage Festival Announced

Hickory NC (PRWEB) July 17, 2005 -- Once again Hickorys Heritage Festival is slated to be the premier North Carolina Furnishing Event of the year. Not only will it be the biggest salute to the furnishing industry, the festival will also include a vast array of exhibits, games, contests and entertainment.

Starting in High Point in 1997, the N.C Furnishings Festival was a celebration to honor the success and impact of the home furnishings industry on that community. This local concept was expanded into a month long celebration to recognize all the cities that had made the success of the industry possible.

Catawba County and the Catawba Furniture Mall were the first On the Road" hosts for the traveling celebration. Through the festival, Catawba Furniture Mall has continued the tradition of celebrating the furniture heritage that has helped keep N.C. strong for decades, and has put Hickory on the map throughout the nation and even the world.

The festivities will begin on August 12 with an Exhibitor Reception from 5pm-6pm and an official Opening Ceremonies from 6pm-7pm. The evening event will provide musical entertainment by Joseph Hasty with a jazz trio and great eats from Liazzos. The opening ceremonies are open and free to the public.

Highlights of the evening ceremonies include W. Steve Ikerd, owner of Catawba Furniture Mall, to recognize several distinguished guests who have dedicated their lives to the furnishings industry, Hickory Community Theatre performances, and the National Anthem to be sung by Catawbas very own, Betty Ikerd.

On schedule to appear August 13 and 14 are: Fine Art Consultant, Jan G. Milner, who will be available for appraisals. Proceeds from the appraisals will benefit Palliative CareCenter and Hospice of Catawba Valley.

In addition there will be furniture exhibits, manufacturer demonstrations, free interior design consultations, craft and woodworking demonstrations, food, contests, live music, childrens entertainment, and the best in furniture prices and selection. For sponsorship opportunities, contact Betty Ikerd at 828-324-9701, extension 113.

Hickory's Heritage Furnishings Festival is a free indoor festival celebrating the home furnishings industry. It is held annually at Catawba Furniture Mall, 377 Highway 70, Hickory. This years event dates are Friday August 12 from 5 to 7 pm Saturday, August 13 from 10 am to7 pm and Sunday, August 14, from 1 to 5 pm. For highlights of last years festival, go to www.catawbafurniture.com/festival.htm.

For more information on this and other events at Catawba Furniture Mall, call 828-324-9701, or visit www.catawbafurniture.com. For lodging and dining information call the Park Inn Hotel and Gateway Conference Center at 1-800-670-7275, or visit www.parkinn.com/hickorync.

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