NC Azalea Festival

The North Carolina Azalea Festival, founded in 1948, is Wilmington’s premier spring celebration and one of the most cherished cultural events in the Southeast. Drawing over 250,000 attendees each year, the festival transforms the city into a showcase of Southern charm, art, music, and community spirit.

Signature events include the Airlie Luncheon Garden Party, an elegant gathering set amid blooming gardens; a televised parade drawing more than 100,000 spectators; and major outdoor concerts featuring national recording artists. The street fair brings together artisans, local cuisine, and family activities, while cultural programs such as the International Blooms showcase and youth competitions highlight the festival’s deep community roots.

Attendees span 60% local and regional visitors (from NC, SC, and VA), 30% domestic tourists, and 10% international guests, offering brands a diverse and engaged audience.

The festival generates significant visibility with $150K+ in annual media buys, a social media following of 72K+, and over 600K website views each year.

Sponsorship provides high-impact brand exposure across tickets, signage, and digital channels, along with exclusive VIP access to marquee events featuring celebrities and community leaders. Beyond visibility, sponsors play a role in supporting local scholarships, the arts, and Wilmington’s cultural economy—making participation both high-profile and high-purpose.