SALISBURY — In a celebration of creativity and Carolina pride, Cheerwine has announced West Rowan High School freshman Nicholas Smith as the winner of the Cheerwine Festival T-shirt Design Contest after 10,400 votes were cast.

Smith’s design, garnering nearly 2,000 votes, creatively combines the silhouette of North Carolina with a Cheerwine bottle, embodying the Tar Heel State’s affection for the beloved cherry soda. Fans can preorder the T-shirt by visiting: cheerwine.com/festival-contest/.

“I grew up in North Carolina and wanted to capture the local culture,” Smith said.

Smith will receive a $1,000 gift card, a commemorative plaque from Salisbury Mayor Karen Alexander at a special ceremony during the festival and a gift basket. His art teacher, Kimberly Nance, will receive $500 for new art supplies.

“We were delighted by the diverse and impressive submissions from students throughout the Carolinas,” said Joy Ritchie Harper, vice president of marketing and fifth generation founding family member at Cheerwine. “This contest once again highlighted the incredible talent we have in our schools, and we appreciate all the students and teachers who participated and fans who voted. We’re eager to showcase Nicholas’ artwork and know festival-goers will love his design.”

Cheerwine invited high school students across North and South Carolina to submit original artwork showing their Carolina pride. The top 10 finalists were chosen by a panel of judges and then opened to public voting.

Carter Coon, a sophomore from Northeast Guilford High School, and Elijah Gulledge, a junior from West Rowan High School and another student of Nance’s, were runners-up and will each receive a plaque from the mayor and a gift basket.

Cheerwine has also revealed this year’s musical lineup. Headlining is Let’s Groove Tonight, the nationally acclaimed Earth, Wind & Fire tribute band. The festival will also feature an array of live performances, including the rock and blues sounds of The Phoebes Band, the heartfelt melodies of singer-songwriter Braden Hull and the soulful funk rhythms of the TKG Experience.

The Cheerwine Festival will be held on May 18, from noon to 10 p.m. in downtown Salisbury.

For more information, go to cheerwinefest.com. Fans can also search the hashtag #CheerwineFest on social media.