North Carolina Spring Festivals

North Carolina is known for its great weather, great beaches and even great BBQ, but did you know about all of the fantastic festivals?!  Take a peek at our guide to the state’s Best Spring Festivals:

North Carolina Azalea Festival – Wilmington, NC- April 11^th-15^th, 2018

Each April, the namesake flower bursts into full bloom to celebrate the springtime festival held in its honor.  This staple North Carolina event draws over 200,000 folks in throughout the weeklong festivities featuring big-name entertainment, festive galas, street fairs, pageantry, fun family and Southern hospitality.  Come join in the 70^th anniversary fun!

Grifton Shad Festival – Grifton, NC – April 18^th-22^nd, 2018

Entering its 48^th year…the Grifton Shad Festival is one of the most time-honored and longest running festivals in all of North Carolina.  It corresponds with the shad migration each spring.  Come out and enjoy four days of Down East Hospitality in the Official Shad Capital of North Carolina.

Riverbash – Perquimans County, NC – April 27^th-28^th, 2018

This year marks the 350^th anniversary of North Eastern North Carolina so get ready to celebrate with Riverbash!  There will be events for the whole family to enjoy!  Children can enjoy bounce houses, a petting zoo, pirate adventures and even inflatable archery tag!   The fun isn’t limited to the younger crowd though!  Everyone can enjoy live music, art exhibits, food trucks and so much more!   For those in the mood for nightlife, check out the Dine, Drink and Dance following the day time festivities!

NC Pickle Festival – Mount Olive, NC – April 28^th, 2018

Join Mount Olive in celebrating the North Carolina Pickle Festival!  Thousands of folks come out each year to enjoy this one-of-a-kind festival.   Enjoy the Annual Pickle Eating Contest, catch Circus Stella, take a twirl on the carnival rides, hit up the magic shows, partake in the Pickle Packing Production Challenge, ride the Pickle Train, watch the Mascot Race, check out the art contest, take in live entertainment and MORE!

BBQ Festival on the Nuese – Kinston, NC – May 4^th-5^th, 2018

This is the KING of BBQ competitions!!  Well, at least in North Carolina!  Festival goers get to sample delicious BBQ, stroll through arts and crafts, participate in wine tastings in the Wine Garden, enjoy live music and so much more!  The competition really heats up on Saturday as teams from all over North Carolina and BEYOND vie for the title of WIL King Hog and Sauce Boss!

Carolina Strawberry Festival – Wallace, NC – May 11^th-12^th, 2018

The Carolina Strawberry Festival is an annual event in downtown Wallace.  The festivities include a great selection of strawberries (of course!), food vendors, pageants, Dare Devil Dog Show, Cooking Contest, Helicopter Rides and a Beer & Wine Garden.  Plus enjoy some fantastic entertainment featuring Harvey Dalton Arnold & Polar Bear Blues Band, Trainwreck, Chocolate Chip & Company Band, and Hank Williams Jr Tribute Band: All My Rowdy Friends.