THE Mayor of Derry and Strabane is calling on the voting public to warm up for next week’s elections by casting a vote for Derry’s Hallowe’en event in this year’s Tourism NI Awards.
Following on from the city’s success in the USA Today poll which saw the city crowned Top Hallowe’en Destination in the world, the Festival has now been short listed as one of the frontrunners in this year’s NITA’s, one of the highest accolades in the Tourism Industry.
The winners will be announced at a glittering gala dinner in Derry’s St Columb’s Hall on May 26th.
Now it falls to the public to cast the final votes, and Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District, Councillor Elisha McCallion, is urging Hallowe’en fans to rally behind the city’s most spooktacular event.
“I’m delighted that we have been shortlisted for such a prestigious tourism award.
“Derry has already been acknowledged as the best Hallowe’en destination in the world and this would be the icing on the cake if we could get the endorsement of both the Tourist Industry and the public for the event.
“The 2015 Hallowe’en celebrations were bigger and better than ever and to win Best Event would really set the stage for next year.
“Voting is now open so I would encourage people to support their city and get online and get voting!”
Festivals and Events Manager for Council, Jacqueline Whoriskey said: “We are thrilled to have been acknowledged by the NITA panel.
The Banks of the Foyle Halloween Carnival is one of our biggest annual events and draws thousands from far and wide.
The people of Derry have made this festival the success that it is and it’s the community involvement that generates the fantastic family friendly atmosphere.
“The public secured our place as the best Halloween destination in the world and I hope we can count on everyone in Derry and Strabane to cast their vote to win Best Event as we welcome the NITA’s to the city.”
The Banks of the Foyle has been shortlisted in the Best Festival or Event Category against four other top tourism experiences including Van Morrison Live on Cyprus Avenue, the Circuit of Ireland Rally, the Irish Game Fair and Fine Food Festival and the Derry International Irish Music Festival.
Also shortlisted in the Most Promising New Tourism Business category is newcomer to the Derry restaurant scene the Walled City Brewery, who have been fast establishing a foothold in the local food tourism industry.
Voting is now officially open and will remain open until midnight on Thursday May 12th. You can view all the categories and shortlisted candidates and register your vote on http://nitourismawards.com/2016-shortlist/
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