Each year the businesses and community in Coupeville come together to celebrate one thing the area is known for — mussels.

The annual Penn Cove Mussel Festival takes time, money and commitment from countless people to make happen.

From the organizers — Coupeville Historic Waterfront Association — to all the business partners of the event, the commitment is astounding.

Businesses put weeks, months into participating in the chowder-tasting contest.

While CHWA and Penn Cove Shellfish are jointly covering the cost of mussels for the chowder, the businesses cover the cost of additional ingredients, they pay employee time for two days as well as the time leading up to and preparing.

Making chowder to feed 1,000 people over two days, 15,000 tastings total for the week, is a huge feat.

The businesses are investing in a community event that brings outsiders to the town and gives locals a reason to gather and celebrate.

Musselfest is a uniquely Coupeville event displaying Coupeville’s local fare in an entertaining way.

Visitors come from all over, aiding in the local economy and bringing awareness to the community.

It benefits us all.

So many people have invested in this weekend, Let’s make it as great as it can be by showing support with participation and encouragement.

And if you can swing it, sign up to volunteer next year.

Organizers start planning almost immediately after the festival.

— Megan Hansen is editor for The Whidbey Examiner. She can be reached at mhansen@whidbeynewsgroup.com