North Carolina is a beautiful state to visit at any time of year, but never more so than in the spring. The flowers are blooming, the weather is mild, there is plenty to see and do and it’s a great time to spend some time outdoors. And if you’re in the mood to celebrate something, chances are that North Carolina has a festival for you. Between March and May, the state of North Carolina is host to a number of different festivals celebrating everything from flowers to food to pirates to pickles. If you’re near there or will be visiting the area any time during the spring, be sure to stop in and enjoy one of these fantastic festivals.
- The Azalea Festival. This flowery festival is held in Wilmington, North Carolina, and has been a tradition in the city since 1948. This year’s Azalea festival will be held from Wednesday, April 10th to Sunday, April 14th. Watch the coronation of the North Carolina Azalea Queen on opening day, and join the locals for the parade on Saturday. You’ll also want to see the Avett Brothers in concert on Friday. Art shows, home and garden tours, and a street fair are also all part of the Azalea Festival.
- Blue Ridge Wine and Food Festival. The Blue Ridge Wine and Food Festival in Blowing Rock, North Carolina, is also taking place between April 10th and April 14th. Foodies and wine connoisseurs will enjoy this series of food and wine related events. Enjoy wine seminars and tastings, cooking classes and demos, tasting events, and late night music and entertainment.
- PirateFest. Greenville, North Carolina is the home of North Carolina’s annual pirate festival. Enjoy food and live entertainment while browsing artwork produced by North Carolinian artists. Handmade jewelry, wood carvings, pottery, and paintings are just some of the treasures you’ll find on sale. The PirateFest takes place on Friday, April 12th from 5pm to 8pm and Saturday, April 13th from 10am to 7pm.
- Pickle Festival. Taking place in Mount Olive, North Carolina, on April 26th and 27th is the 27th annual North Carolina Pickle Festival. Visit Mount Olive during the Pickle Festival to see antique cars, enter a poetry or art contest, participate in a treasure hunt, and of course, eat pickles! Bicyclists can also join in the Tour de Pickle for a 25-, 50-, or 75-mile scenic bike ride.
Other fun North Carolina festivals include a beer festival in Raleigh, a potato festival in Elizabeth City, and a strawberry festival in Chadbourn. If you’re in a festive mood this spring, be sure to spend some time in North Carolina.
