This weekend, we conclude Selma’s festival/event season with the 20th Anniversary of the Battle of Selma.

The city’s annual Civil War re-enactment brings big bucks to Selma and Dallas County in lodging tax, gasoline purchases, and restaurant receipts.

It is the third in a series of high profile events for Selma, starting with the Bridge Crossing Jubilee in March, Pilgrimage (also held in March) and now the Battle of Selma.

All of these events have a profound impact on the area’s economy.

Mayor James Perkins Jr., recognizes the impact the three-day event has on the city. Perkins said the city is looking for ways to grow all of Selma tourism events.

All three of these events highlight Selma’s history, from the Civil War to the Civil Rights Movement.

And all three of the festivals/events need the support of the city, county, Centre for Commerce, and local residents and businesses.

There’s no reason Selma can’t grow into one of the largest tourist destinations in the state, if not the Southeast.

We certainly have all the resources and amenities, such as the historic homes and buildings and a great location on the Alabama River.

What we need to do now is look at what makes other destinations world class, and look to progress to that level here in Selma and Dallas County.

Thanks to all the groups and volunteers who brought us this weekend’s Battle of Selma. There’s nothing to do now but grow the event into one of the South’s biggest.