TOPSAIL ISLAND, N.C. (WECT) – When the 14th annual Ocean City Jazz Festival takes place July 5-7, a popular name among jazz enthusiasts will be part of the entertainment. Nnenna Freelon, a grammy-nominated jazz artist is part of the lineup of entertainers.

Other jazz musicians attending this year’s festival include Gerald Albright, Phylicia Rae and trombonist Fred Wesley.

The festival is held each year in celebration of the community’s rich history. Sandwiched between North Topsail Beach and Surf City, Ocean City was founded in 1949. It was the only coastal community where African Americans could purchase beachfront property in North Carolina. Prominent African Americans built vacation homes there, creating a close-knit community.

Proceeds from the event will be used to preserve the history of Ocean City.

For more information on the festival and how to purchase tickets, click here.

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