Governor Stein Proclaims North Carolina Azalea Festival Week

North Carolina Azalea Festival Week

2026

By The Governor Of The State Of North Carolina

A Proclamation

Whereas, the State of North Carolina and the City of Wilmington are pleased to host the 79^th Annual North Carolina Azalea Festival; and 

Whereas, this proud North Carolina tradition draws visitors to the Port City year after year to enjoy the beauty of nature, vibrant entertainment, a lively street fair, a grand parade, and riverfront attractions; and 

Whereas, in addition to showcasing stunning floral displays, the North Carolina Azalea Festival celebrates Wilmington's rich arts, culture, and historical heritage; and 

Whereas, the North Carolina Azalea Festival, in the spirit of being a festival for all North Carolinians and guests, has chosen India as this year's featured country through the "International Blooms" program, honoring the vibrant Indian community that helps shape the cultural fabric of southeastern North Carolina and celebrating India's rich traditions, vivid colors, and deep connection to nature, which beautifully reflect the spirit of the Festival; and 

Whereas, the North Carolina Azalea Festival promotes North Carolina's tourism industry and encourages visitors to explore the unparalleled beauty and diversity that make our state a wonderful place to live, from the majestic mountains to the scenic coast;

Now, Therefore, I, Josh Stein, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim April 8 – 12, 2026, as “North Carolina Azalea Festival Week” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all residents.

In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Great Seal of the State of North Carolina at the Capitol in Raleigh this seventeenth day of March in the year of our Lord two thousand and twenty-sixth and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fiftieth.