QuiltWeek returns to Ocean Center with $54,000 in prizes
When you think of quilting, you might think of elderly women in rocking chairs, but the American Quilter Society (AQS) is here to dispel that notion.
The American Quilter’s Society, founded in 1984, is the largest quilting membership organization in the world. The organization gives national recognition to quilters and their work and sets the standard for excellence in the quilting industry. And there’s no better place to witness the passion of the organization and its 70,000-plus members than at AQS QuiltWeek Feb. 26 through 29 at the Ocean Center in Daytona Beach.
“QuiltWeek is a prime example of how people from all over come together to admire artwork that is not only nostalgic but has evolved to incorporate revolutionary and modern art techniques,” said Bonnie Browning, AQS executive show director. “We look forward to welcoming quilters from every generation and skill level back to Daytona Beach for the fifth consecutive year.”
AQS hosts six shows annually, kicking off the season at the Ocean Center. The event will feature more than 425 quilts on display and award $54,000 in prizes, including the $10,000 Best in Show prize. The show will also offer a variety of programming, including six special exhibitions, workshops by renowned instructors, a merchant mall, and AQS certified quilt appraisers on hand to appraise both new and vintage quilts.
The event also gives back to the local community, providing a booth and supplies for Racing Fingers Quilt Guild of Ormond Beach. The group creates small fidget quilts, complete with tactile and manipulative objects—think textured fabric, spools, zippers and buttons— for Alzheimer’s and dementia patients to keep their hands occupied during care. At the show, attendees of all skill levels are encouraged to stop by the booth and create or contribute to a fidget quilt.
AQS QuiltWeek is open to the public; admission includes access to all special exhibits and the merchant mall. Event hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26, through Friday, Feb. 28; and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 29. Tickets are available online or at the door. For additional information and to purchase tickets in advance, visit www.quiltweek.com/locations/daytona-beach/.
