Take advantage of Wilmington’s beautiful spring weather—come downtown for a fun event! Every April, we celebrate spring with outdoor festivals and events, basking in the warm days and cool breezes off the Cape Fear River.
Join us at one (or all!) of these fun downtown celebrations this April:
Coastal Carolina Trainfest Toots into Downtown Wilmington
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 1 and 2, 2017
Coastline Conference Center, 501 Nutt Street
Six model railroad organizations from across eastern Carolina set up at the Coastline (next to the Train Museum) to spread the joy of model railroading at this annual train celebration. The show includes interactive displays, how-to clinics, operating layouts, and vendors with plenty of cool model train stuff.
The NC Azalea Festival is Our Favorite Spring Celebration
April 5-9, 2017
The prettiest event in Wilmington is the one with the flowers, the 2017 Azalea Festival. There’s so much to do: Dance to the music of Cole Swindell or Duran Duran or compete at the Riverwalk Shag Contest. Watch amazing shows at the Music and Multicultural Stage or take an Azalea Festival Home Tour or Garden Tour. Don’t miss the parade or the fireworks!
Hunt for Fun at Battleship Easter Egg Hunt Carnival
10 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 14, 2017
Battleship Park
Kids will love the pony rides, eggs, bounce houses, candy, games, and Buddy the Battleship Easter Bunny at this fun festival overlooking downtown Wilmington. Of course there are egg hunts throughout the day. There’s even a slower-paced hunt area for littler kids or those who need more time.
Riverfront Farmers Market Begins in April
8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays, starting April 15, 2017
The seasonal open-air farmers market in downtown Wilmington is on the first block of North Water Street, from Market St. to Princess St. and in adjoining Riverfront Park. Local growers and artisans offer vegetables, herb and garden and landscape plants, eggs, cheese, flowers, meats, seafood, and lots of crafts such as jewelry and wood and metal work.
Pawz in the Park Celebrates Furry Friends
10 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 29, 2017
Battleship Park
It’s a fantastically furry day at Battleship Park with food, music, and vendors to celebrate pets and enjoy the spring weather! Pawz in the Park features pet contests, raffles, and vendors of pet-related goods and services, including more than 20 rescue groups.
Celebrate Spring with a Cruise on the Cape Fear River
While you’re downtown, be sure to take advantage of the spring weather with a sightseeing cruise on a Cape Fear Riverboat! We have the best view of downtown Wilmington, and your hour-long cruise is just right for catching your breath after your April event in downtown Wilmington.
Rest your feet, bring along a snack, and relax on the river as you listen to our captain’s entertaining narration about local films, the Cape Fear River, and area wildlife. Stroll down to our ticket booth on the Riverwalk at Dock and Water Streets, or buy tickets online.
