If you’ve never attended the NC Azalea Festival with kids, this is your sign. It’s one of the best weeks in Wilmington, and there are so many free, family-friendly events you can build your days around.
It can feel overwhelming, so I’ve put together a simple, mom-approved guide to help you enjoy it (without overdoing it). Before we dive into the event specifics, you should be aware that there is a baby changing station and port-a-johns located in the Kids Area. For the most part, the festival is very stroller friendly, but it can get hard to navigate in crowds with a stroller, so I recommend baby wearing if you are able to.
Parking: Parking can be the trickiest part. I always recommend planning to park on-street on 4th St. + and walking down to the action. Arrive early for a “good” parking spot.
Always bring snacks as the food vendors can be expensive and don’t forget sunscreen and a water bottle. Also, don’t forget to support the local downtown businesses; many are easy to overlook since their storefronts can get hidden behind festival vendors. Enjoy!
Queen’s Coronation at the Battleship North Carolina
Wednesday, April 8 | 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM | FREE
This is one of the most iconic events of the festival and such a cool experience for kids (and adults). Last year it was at Greenfield Lake, but this year it is back to the USS Battleship NC. Historically, the Queen Azalea role is filled by actresses, public figures, and influential women who can connect both locally and nationally to the spirit of the event.
The 2026 Queen is Elaine Hendrix, an American actress best known for her iconic role as Meredith Blake in The Parent Trap. She’s had a long career in film and television, with appearances in projects like Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion, Dynasty, and numerous guest roles across popular TV shows.
Beyond acting, she’s also known for:
- Her work as an animal rights activist
- Founding The Pet Matchmaker, helping connect rescue animals with homes
- Advocating for rescue and adoption nationwide
Event Schedule
- 1:30 PM – Entry Opens
- 2:30 PM – Pre-Show Begins
- 3:00 PM – Coronation Starts
- 3:00 PM – Meet & Greet (anticipated)
- 4:00 PM – Event Ends
Mom Tips
- It gets hot on the battleship, so bring sunscreen and handheld fans
- No outside food or drinks (concessions available)
- Bring your phone for photos and dress up! Flowy sundresses and dressing your kids up is half the fun.
- Wear comfortable shoes
- Parking available onsite and ADA accessible
Downtown Street Fair (A Must With Kids)
Located along Front Street
Friday, April 10 | 6 PM – 10 PM | Free
Saturday, April 11 | 10 am – 10 pm | Free
Sunday, April 12 | 10 am – 5 pm | Free
This is one of the best events for families, food, music, local vendors, and lots of space for kids to explore. Go earlier in the evening if you have younger kids.
Street Fair Traffic Map
Save this before you go, it helps a lot when navigating with kids. Going on Friday is highly recommended as this is typically the “slowest” day and when most vendors still have plenty of stock and options. Attending Saturday after the parade is when the vast majority of folks attend and it gets very crowded. Just be aware!
Kids Area Highlights (Don’t Miss This)
Located at the 2nd Street Parking Lot. This is where your kids will want to stay. Most activities including the bounce houses are free.
- Bounce houses
- Shark tooth dig
- Touch-a-truck with Wilmington Fire Department
- Arts and crafts
- STEM activities
- Mini golf
Plus fun appearances from:
- Aurora Fossil Museum
- DREAMS of Wilmington
- 501st Legion
Performing Arts Stage
Located at Market Street and 2nd Street
12:00 PM – 5:00 PM (Saturday)
Live performances from local dance and theater groups, multicultural organizations, and members of the Azalea Queens Court. Full schedule: https://ncazaleafestival.org/street-fair-2/performing-arts-stage/
Pre-Parade + Azalea Festival Parade (Best Event for Kids)
Pre-Parade Entertainment
In front of Thalian Hall, Begins at 8:45 AM
Enjoy cultural performances, dancing, and the National Anthem before the parade begins.
The parade is located on North 3rd Street (Starting at Brunswick St and ending at Market Street.
Saturday, April 11 | 9:30 AM | Free
What to Expect
- Over 50 one-of-a-kind floats and groups
- Musical performances
- Balloons and entertainment
- Local figures and festival royalty
The parade lasts about 2 hours and this is one activity I’d recommend attending.
Mom Tips
- Arrive about 30 minutes early
- Sit near the start of the route (less waiting)
- Bring chairs, snacks, and a stroller
Important:
- You cannot cross 3rd Street during the parade
- Keep children on the sidewalk at all times
Optional Bleacher Seating
- $8.24 per seat (notated above where the squares are on the map)
- Up to 6 tickets per order
Military Aviation Displays
Located at Wilmington International Airport
April 11 (12–5 PM) and April 12 (10 AM–3 PM)
FREE
Join the fun at ILM for Static Military and Civilian Display Days.
- Explore aircraft up close
- Meet pilots and crew
- See helicopters from the North Carolina Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association
- Food trucks onsite
This is perfect for kids who love planes, trucks, or anything hands-on. This is a new event this year so while I don’t have much advice, I’d recommend bringing stroller, chairs, sunscreen and fans.
Boxing Tournament
Saturday, April 11–12
This USA Boxing sanctioned event features athletes from across the country, including youth, adult, and master divisions.
A unique event if your kids enjoy sports or competition.
Fireworks
The fireworks can be best seen downtown along the Riverwalk. We love arriving to park around 6:30PM, grabbing dinner at a local restaurant, then heading down to the Riverwalk to enjoy the free show.
Saturday, April 11th , Fireworks show starts at 9:00 PM (Usually last around 15 – 20 min)
+ Boom & Bloom (Optional Add-On)
April 11th at 7:30 PM
Location: Battleship NC
I’ve personally never attended this event, but it’s a special event with the best seating to view the fireworks along with entertainment and snacks.
Admission: $30 includes, Children 5 and under are free
- Folding chair (yours to keep, while supplies last)
- Popcorn
- DJ entertainment
- Self-guided ship tour
- Fireworks viewing
Tunes & Blooms Music Festival
Located at Greenfield Lake Amphitheater
Sunday, April 12, 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
This is a great way to wrap up the weekend at a slower pace.
- Live music all day
- Lawn games for kids
- Local vendors
- Food and drinks available for purchase
Mom Tips
- Bring sunscreen and bug spray
- Bring hearing protection for small children
- This is a cashless venue
- No outside food or drinks allowed
Azalea Festival Best Advice (From a Mom of 3)
The Azalea Festival can feel like a lot, but it doesn’t have to be.
Here’s what I recommend:
- Pick one to two events
- Don’t over-schedule
- Bring snacks and water whenever you can
- Let your kids lead a little, it makes it more enjoyable for everyone
Some of the best moments aren’t even the big events. It’s walking downtown, grabbing a lemonade, wave at the parade floats, see the street performances and soak in the people that travel from all over the world to experience this festival of our community.
And that’s really what it’s all about.
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