North Carolina Azalea Festival: A Wilmington Tradition Since 1948
In 1948, a collection of Wilmington citizens and various community groups came together to create the very first North Carolina Azalea Festival. This unique festival is actually the largest of its kind in the state of North Carolina and has emerged as Wilmington’s premier event. For nearly a full week every April, some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry gather to perform as the community celebrates the natural beauty of the Port City. As a member of the Wilmington community, the BrewBoat Wilmington is here to break down the most anticipated events of this year’s festival, as well as a brand new way to observe it!
Main Stage
This year’s North Carolina Azalea Festival is bringing the noise…in the best way possible! Nashville recording artist Tyler Farr, who has toured with Jason Aldean, Florida Georgia Line, Brantley Gilbert and Lee Brice, will be performing April 4th from 7pm to 10pm. Josh Phillips will be opening for Tyler on Thursday night.
On Friday, Hank Williams Jr. will be brining all of his rowdy friends for an unforgettable performance. That’s right, on April 5th beginning at 7pm, Hank will be playing all of his greatest hits. Frank Foster will be opening for Hank at the Azalea Festival Main Stage.
Last, but certainly not least, one of the original members of N.W.A. will be blowing up the stage on Saturday Night. Recording artist, actor, director and entrepreneur Ice Cube will be hitting the stage on April 6th at 7pm. We certainly can’t wait to hear “Today Was A Good Day” because it certainly will be one to remember!
Multicultural Stage
On Saturday April 6th and again on April 7th, the multicultural stage will be jam-packed with ethnic bands, dancers, marchers and performers. Stop by to marvel at the authentic costumes, dances and music from China, the Middle East, Mexico, Polynesia, Japan, Ireland, Polynesia, Hawaii and so many more. Beginning at 12:30pm on Saturday and Sunday, be sure to stop by and admire their performances.
The 72nd Annual North Carolina Azalea Festival Parade
It’s not a true festival without a parade! The Azalea Festival Parade will begin promptly at 9:30am on Saturday, April 6th. We suggest coming early so that you can get the best view possible. Bring your own snacks or feel free to purchase concessions from local food trucks and food tents that will be selling bagels, hot dogs, donuts, chips, candy, cookies, drinks and more.
BrewBoat Wilmington – A New, Unique Perspective
Either before or after you check out the North Carolina Azalea Festival in Wilmington, we want you to see what we are all about! As Wilmington’s first only pedal pub on water, we provide a truly unique experience that one can only experience aboard our boat. Captain Chris will be steering the boat as you and your friends and family pedal through the Cape Fear River! You are more than welcome to bring your own adult beverages to enjoy during your cruise. If you wish to view our available time slots, please visit BrewBoat.com/Book-Now or call us at 910.239.7703.
We hope you decide to come out to the North Carolina Azalea Festival in April right here in the Port City! And if this year doesn’t work out, it we will be eagerly awaiting you the next.
