North Carolina Azalea Festival
Apr 8 2026 - 12:00pm to Apr 12 2026 - 9:00pm
A Wilmington Tradition: The History of the NC Azalea Festival
The North Carolina Azalea Festival is one of the most beloved spring events in the Southeast, held each April in the heart of Wilmington, NC. What began in 1948 as a celebration of the city's stunning azalea gardens has grown into a five-day festival of live music, colorful parades, garden tours, arts, culture, and Southern tradition. Each year, the festival crowns a Queen Azalea, draws nationally recognized performers, and welcomes visitors from across the country — all set against the backdrop of Wilmington in full bloom. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning fan, the NC Azalea Festival is a quintessential Carolina spring experience.
NC Azalea Festival Details
Date: 2026 NC Azalea Festival — April 8–12, Wilmington, NC- Lil Jon & Ying Yang Twins Concert — April 9 at Live Oak Bank Pavilion
- Dustin Lynch Concert — April 10 (venue TBA on festival site)
- Queen Azalea 2026 — Actress Elaine Hendrix, crowned aboard the Battleship North Carolina
- Azalea Garden Tour — Self-guided private garden tours, April 10–12
- Street Fair — Free, multi-day event April 10–12 with vendors, food, beer garden & live performing arts
- Grand Parade Presented by the U.S. Army — Saturday, April 11 at 9:30 am
- Battleship Boom & Bloom Bonanza — Fireworks spectacular, Saturday evening
- Historic Home Tour — Self-guided tours of Wilmington's landmark homes, April 11–12
- The Wizard of Oz — Presented by Thalian Association, April 10–19
- Pre-Festival: Scholarship Pageant — March 14 at Kenan Auditorium
- Pre-Festival: Spring Fashion Show — March 15 at Lumina at Wrightsville Beach
The NC Azalea Festival is one of Wilmington's most popular spring events — and nearby accommodations book up quickly. Reserve your luxury vacation rental with Luxury Lodging by Laura and experience the festival in style.