A celebration — a big one — is in order.

It’s not often you see a 300th birthday party, but there happens to be one under way, right here in our community.

This year marks the tricentennial of Beaufort County’s founding in 1712.

You’re invited to help blow out the candles, figuratively speaking, that is.

A local committee has been hard at work planning events to celebrate the milestone, recognizing the rich history and promising future of our county.

It all kicks off next week, with an opening ceremony Feb. 22 at Washington High School.

The special program, sponsored by the 300th Anniversary Committee, Beaufort County Schools and the Beaufort County Board of Commissioners, begins at 9:30 a.m.

Other events are being organized to keep the celebration going throughout the year. Keep up with those and other details in the Washington Daily News and online at TheWashingtonDailyNews.com.

In addition to the special anniversary events, other existing events will also highlight Beaufort County’s 300th. Those include the Washington Summer Festival, Smoke on the Water, the Aurora Fossil Festival, the Fourth of July parade in Belhaven and BathFest, among others.

The Washington Daily News will lead a special project to publish a commemorative book reflecting on Beaufort County’s 300-year history.

Now’s a good time to start digging through those old photos passed down through the generations. We’re seeking photos that showcase the history of Beaufort County, and we will soon be organizing a collection effort.

Be sure to check out future issues of the newspaper for details.

With plenty of activities to celebrate our home county, it looks to be a fun year. Next Wednesday presents a great opportunity to join the party.

For more information on Beaufort County’s 300th anniversary opening ceremony, call 252-946-0079 or email sharon.singleton@co.beaufort.nc.us.