Great State of Wilkes, NC

The Great State of Wilkes, NC, based in Wilkesboro, United States, provides public relations and communications services specifically tailored to tourism development and destination marketing. While the organization operates as a tourism development authority, its core expertise lies in strategic communications that promote Wilkes County, North Carolina, as a compelling destination. The agency leverages public relations to craft narratives around the region's assets, including its natural landscapes, cultural events, and local industries. Services typically involve media relations, content creation, event promotion, and stakeholder communication, all aimed at driving visitor engagement and economic growth.

Services and Specialties

The Great State of Wilkes, NC focuses its communications efforts on highlighting the unique attractions of Wilkes County. Its service offerings are built around the region's strengths and include:

• Public relations and media outreach for tourism and outdoor recreation
• Content marketing and storytelling for wine, beer & spirits, handmade artisan crafts, and local businesses
• Event promotion and communications for festivals like MerleFest and the Brushy Mountain Apple Festival
• Destination branding and marketing for scenic drives, trail networks, and outdoor activities
• Stakeholder communications and partnership development with hotels, recreation providers, and arts organizations
• Strategic messaging for heritage tourism, music, and cultural attractions

These services are designed to position Wilkes County as a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts, music lovers, and cultural explorers. The organization's public relations work often centers on the county's extensive trail network, including Rendezvous Mountain Trails, Doughton Park Trails, and the Lump Trail, as well as its family-friendly hiking and multi-use trails.

Who They Help

The Great State of Wilkes, NC serves a broad range of clients and partners within the tourism ecosystem. This includes local businesses such as wineries, breweries, and distilleries; outdoor recreation operators offering rock climbing, hiking, and paddling; arts and history organizations; event organizers; and hotel and accommodation providers. The organization also collaborates with community leaders, government agencies, and non-profits to ensure that tourism development aligns with local priorities. By focusing on Wilkes County, the Great State of Wilkes, NC helps these stakeholders attract visitors, increase economic impact, and enhance the region's reputation as a premier destination in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Approach and Philosophy

The organization's approach to public relations and communications is grounded in authenticity and sustainability. Rather than using aggressive promotional tactics, the Great State of Wilkes, NC emphasizes responsible tourism and the preservation of the county's natural beauty and historic character. Its communications strategy highlights the Leave No Trace principles and encourages visitors to have a positive impact on the community. The agency works closely with local stakeholders to create visitor-centered experiences that draw people to the area and encourage repeat visitation. Through strategic marketing initiatives and innovative event programming, the Great State of Wilkes, NC leverages the region's assets—from its scenic trails and waterfront areas to its music festivals and artisan crafts—to attract new tourism markets while supporting long-term growth for residents and businesses.

Location and Credentials

Headquartered at 203 W Main St, Wilkesboro, North Carolina, the Great State of Wilkes, NC is deeply embedded in the community it serves. Founded in 1847, the organization has a long history of promoting the region's tourism and cultural assets. Its location in Wilkesboro places it at the heart of Wilkes County, allowing for direct collaboration with local businesses, event organizers, and community leaders. The agency's credentials are rooted in its proven track record of managing signature events like MerleFest, the Brushy Mountain Apple Festival, and the Carolina in the Fall Music and Food Festival, which have positioned Wilkes County as a leading destination for music and cultural tourism. The Great State of Wilkes, NC is a good fit for tourism boards, local governments, outdoor recreation companies, and cultural organizations looking to enhance their public relations efforts and attract visitors to the region. Its focus on sustainability and community collaboration makes it particularly suitable for clients who value responsible tourism and long-term destination development.