30 March . 2022
Wilmington in Bloom | Top 8 Springtime Events in the Port City
It’s possible the spring season in Wilmington, NC is the most captivating. The city is delicious with the scent of jasmine. Azaleas are bursting forth in various hues of pink. The beach sun is warm on our faces. There is no city quite like Wilmington in spring!
We invite you to enjoy every moment of your visit – whether you’re first-time visitors to Port City, relaxing on the beach, or ready to get in your new garden. Let yourself be swept up in Wilmington’s captivating spell and enjoy our top 8 springtime activities the area has to offer.
1. Airlie Gardens Spring Bloom | March 1st- April 15th
Thanks to our spring weather, Wilmington’s beloved Airlie Gardens is finally blooming again. Stroll around the gardens during peak season and experience the thousands of beautiful Azaleas, Magnolias, Witch Hazel and Holly found on the property. This activity is perfect for the whole family or to get some fresh air during the weekend.
2. Riverfront Farmers Market | March 26th-November 19th
Wilmington's Riverfront Farmers Market is back for the 2022 season! Starting March 26th, head to Dock St, and walk the market full of art, jewelry, and crafts made by local vendors. Flowers, meats, eggs, cheeses, and products are also available for purchase.
3. Britt's Donut Shop Opening Weekend | April 1st-3rd
Spring has officially arrived in Wilmington when Britt's Donut Shop opens for the season! Britt's is nationally known for its famous homemade glazed donuts that are made on the Carolina Beach Boardwalk. Save the date, tell your friends and head to Carolina Beach on April 1st (with cash in hand) for a warm glazed donut.
4. 30th Annual Poplar Grove Herb & Garden Fair | April 2-3
Spring is the most opportune time to get your garden in full gear! Take a stroll in Poplar Grove for their 30th Annual Herb & Garden Fair. This springtime fair will feature a wonderful selection of plants, ranging from house plants, herbs, vegetables, and shrubs to garden accessories, local food, and crafts! Love gardening yourself? Apply as a vendor! This fair is the perfect way to start the spring season.
5. Azalea Festival | April 6-10
The Azalea Festival will be hosting its 75th anniversary this spring! This is THE event people from all over flock to each spring! This week-long festival offers concerts, with big names like REO Speedwagon, a juried art show, a 5-k race through Wilmington, comedy shows, garden tours, food, dance parties, and much more. Riverlights builder partners and residents will be participating in their Porches on Parade event. Three of our model homes from Charter, Legacy by Bill Clark, and Trusst Builder Group will be beautifully decorated with Azalea flowers and spring décor.
6. Arboretum Gardening Sale | April 28th-May 1st
If you are looking to spruce up your home décor and need some plants, the Arboretum is hosting its Annual Master Gardener Plant Sale. Here you can purchase beautiful flowers and plants for your home and garden, along with vegetables, trees, and shrubs. You can also get gardening tips from the master gardeners attending. There will be over 7,000 plants on sale to the public, just in time to get your house looking fresh for the spring season.
7. Kure Beach Street Festival | April 30th
Celebrate the beauty and wonder of Kure Beach during the Annual Street Festival. The festival will be full of fun activities from local businesses and non profits. There will also be many delicious food options available from local restaurants and food trucks. Join the fun on April 30th from 11 am-5pm.
8. Parade of Homes | April 30th-May 1st and May 7th-8th
The Wilmington Parade of Homes is a free, self-guided tour of the newest homes and communities in Southeastern North Carolina. Three model homes in Riverlights will be showcased this year by some of our top builder partners. Riverlights will also host a pop-up market with 30+ local vendors and live music on April 30th from 10am-3pm in Live Oak Commons.
There are so many fun things to do in Wilmington and this list just scratches the surface. We are lucky to live in a thriving city with plenty of activities that everyone can enjoy.