Azalea Festival
The Azalea Festival is a celebration of Wilmington’s outstanding artwork, gardens, culture and rich history during its five days of entertainment including: a parade, street fair, circus, concerts, pageantry, and all that is Southern.
Since its inception in 1948, the Festival has blossomed into an extended weekend celebration that attracts more than 300,000 people.
For more than 50 years, the folks of Southeastern North Carolina have been throwing the best party in the South and you’re invited! There’s something for everyone among our community’s rich array of artwork, gardens, history and culture. Come join the fun!
Event Include the Azalea 5k/Walk/Run, the Queen’s Coronation, Concerts, Art Show, Cape Fear Garden Club Azalea Tour, the Street Fair, Parade, Coin show, Boxing match, the historic home show and so much more! Call (866) 553-0169 or visit www.ncazaleafestival.com.
Riverfest
Celebrate Wilmington’s heritage at Riverfest in October, when downtown Wilmington hosts a festival that winds along the Cape Fear River.
Wilmington’s Riverfest runs from the foot of Market Street to Cape Fear Community College. Currently drawing nearly a quarter-million people, Riverfest began in 1979 as a modest two-day event and has expanded to three fun and food-packed days.
Riverfest has about 200 craft and food vendors plus fireworks, entertainment on two stages, the Great Waiters Wine Race, Run the River 8K Race, various exhibits and a children’s area. Additional Riverfest activities include skateboard competitions, street dance, wakeboard competition and a musical Battle on the River by a number of bands, a film festival, and Art in the Garden tours of gorgeous private and public gardens enhanced by art and music.
During Riverfest, the Invasion of the Pirates is a kind of festival within a festival, beginning with the arrival of the “pirate ship” on Friday evening, followed by the Pirates Ball. On Saturday, kids can participate in a treasure hunt and pirate costume contest.
Enjoy live entertainment and music on two outdoor stages, arts and crafts, exhibits, dance performances, contests, children’s activities, food, river events, competitions, and fireworks. Call (866) 553-0169 or visit www.wilmingtonriverfest.com.
