Southeastern Wildlife Exposition opens on SC coast

CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) — The heart of South Carolina’s tourism industry is preparing for the annual influx of tourists with a traditional exhibit.

The Southeastern Wildlife Exposition is celebrating its 30th year in Charleston with displays of wildlife art, cooking, sporting dog demonstrations and other events. Public events open Friday and continue through Sunday.

The three-day festival attracts thousands to the coast and serves as the lead-in to the busy spring tourism season that hits its peak as temperatures rise and azaleas and other flowers bloom in coastal gardens.

Tourism in South Carolina reaps an estimated $14 billion for the state.