The Most Epic Annual Events in North Carolina: Top 10 Must-Experience Festivals (Currently Open)
North Carolina is a state bursting with heritage, diversity, and delight—and nothing captures that spirit quite like its standout festivals. Every year, people flock from across the region (and beyond) to celebrate food, music, culture, nature, and community. If you’re looking to experience the best annual events in North Carolina, this curated list of ten exceptional festivals is your roadmap. Whether you’re a curious tourist, a local looking for your next outing, or someone planning a family adventure—there’s something here for you.
1. North Carolina Azalea Festival – Wilmington in Full Bloom
Step into springtime magic in downtown Wilmington when the North Carolina Azalea Festival bursts into life each April. This long-running event celebrates gardens, southern charm, arts, and community. Wikipedia+1
What makes it special:
Garden tours, historic-home walkthroughs, street fairs and a parade all weave together. NC Azalea Festival+1
Family-friendly and accessible, with a mix of visual spectacle and small-town charm.
Ideal for nature lovers, festival wanderers, and visitors seeking one of the most shareable experiences in North Carolina.
Why it belongs on your list: If you’re looking for a festival experience in North Carolina that blends floral beauty, community vibe and springtime joy—this is one of the top picks.
2. Grandfather Mountain Highland Games – Scotland Meets the Blue Ridge
High in the mountains of Linville, the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games is a lively celebration of Scottish heritage, athleticism, music and tartans. grandfather.com+1
What to expect:
Clan tents, kilts, bagpipes, highland dancing and heavy-athletics like caber tosses. Romantic Asheville
The setting in MacRae Meadows beneath the towering Blue Ridge peaks gives it a dramatic, unforgettable backdrop.
A family-friendly outing and cultural escape rolled into one.
Why it stands out: For anyone wanting a festival that doesn’t just entertain but immerses you in heritage and nature—this is one of the best annual events in North Carolina.
3. Carolina Renaissance Festival – An Adventure in Time Near Charlotte
Just north of Charlotte, the Carolina Renaissance Festival transforms woodland and grounds into a sprawling medieval-themed village. With costumed characters, jousts, artisan booths and themed weekends, this festival offers a fantastical escape. Wikipedia
Signature moments:
Jousting matches, falconry displays, live music and period food.
Artisan marketplace offering handmade crafts, leather goods, glasswork and unique finds.
Great for families, groups of friends, or anyone longing for playful adventure.
Why you should go: Because a bit of theatrical escape, combined with lively vendors and costume flair, make this one of North Carolina’s most engaging annual festival experiences.
4. Fayetteville Dogwood Festival – Springtime Fun in the Piedmont
Held in Fayetteville every April, the Fayetteville Dogwood Festival brings together music, food trucks, artists, craft vendors and a lively carnival-style atmosphere. Wikipedia
Highlights:
A mix of free and paid attractions, making it accessible to families with various budgets.
Outdoor concerts, kids’ activities, local food and vibrant community spirit.
A strong regional favorite for locals and visitors alike.
Why it’s on the list: Because when you want a fun-filled annual festival in North Carolina with wide appeal and a true local flavor, the Dogwood Festival delivers.
5. Wild Goose Festival – Creativity, Community & Culture in Union Grove
This multi-day event in Union Grove (and surrounding areas) blends music, art, storytelling, social justice themes, workshops, and festival fun. Wikipedia
What’s unique:
A more introspective festival vibe—less carnival, more conversation, connection and creation.
Welcomes diverse audiences and pushes creative boundaries.
Ideal for adults, groups of friends, or anyone seeking meaning alongside entertainment.
Why it matters: Because if you’re looking for an annual event in North Carolina that resonates beyond just food and fun—this is a standout.
6. NC Blueberry Festival – Sweet Summer Celebration in Burgaw
When summer swings in and blueberries are ripe, Burgaw hosts the NC Blueberry Festival with 5Ks, car shows, cooking contests, live music and berry-themed fun. WRAL.com
Festival highlights:
Plenty of family-friendly activities, including kids games and food centered on locally grown berries.
A low-key but memorable flavor of North Carolina’s agricultural heritage.
Great for day-trips, weekend escapes, or combining festival time with exploring local small towns.
Why it’s included: For a festival grounded in place—food, nature and community—the Blueberry Festival shows a different but equally rich side of North Carolina annual events.
7. Cherry Bounce Festival – Moonshine, Americana & Small-Town Charm
Held in the coastal region, the Cherry Bounce Festival brings together artistry, craft vendors, Americana music, moonshine heritage and cherry-themed treats. WRAL.com+1
Why go:
Quirky, fun, local-flavored—it’s a festival where you’ll find something you didn’t expect.
Great for those seeking the lesser-known but meaningful parts of North Carolina’s festival scene.
Offers shareable moments, especially if you’re into food, craft, local history and unique experiences.
Why it’s included: Because the best annual events in North Carolina include both major and niche celebrations—and this one qualifies for its spirit and authenticity.
8. Charlotte SHOUT! – Urban Festival of Food, Music, Art & Ideas
In downtown Charlotte, Charlotte SHOUT! celebrates creativity in a multi-week festival of public art installations, live music, dance, culinary experiences and ideas worth sharing. Axios
What makes it special:
A modern festival experience—less rustic, more urban, but deeply tied to the region’s culture and energy.
Free and paid components, perfect for locals, weekend visitors or out-of-town travellers.
Offers a change of pace from mountain or beach festivals—urban, lively, cosmopolitan.
Why it’s on the list: Because for a top annual event in North Carolina that merges city energy with culture, SHOUT! delivers.
9. International Black Theatre Festival – Performance & Culture in Winston-Salem
Held every two years in Winston-Salem, this festival (and associated events) highlights the talent of Black theatre artists and communities from across the globe. Visit Winston Salem
Highlights:
Stage productions, panel discussions, workshops, live music and performance art.
Deep cultural resonance, especially for those interested in the arts, diversity, storytelling and heritage.
Audience-friendly, inclusive and inspiring.
Why it’s included: Because the most epic annual events in North Carolina aren’t just about food or music—they’re also about art, identity and expression—and this festival brings that dimension to life.
10. Carolina Classic Fair – Fall Fun in Winston-Salem
Formerly the Dixie Classic Fair, the Carolina Classic Fair takes over the autumn calendar in Winston-Salem with rides, live acts, food indulgence and old-time fair charm. Wikipedia
Why it’s a must-visit:
Fair rides, fair food, live entertainment and community gathering.
The fall season, colorful leaves, cooler air and the fair atmosphere combine for a memorable visit.
Family-friendly, nostalgic and accessible to many.
Why it makes the top ten: Because the “best annual event in North Carolina” list needs a fair—and this one brings the best of that category.
Bonus Picks & Hidden Gems
Beyond the ten above, North Carolina offers a rich tapestry of festivals year-round—from the quirky to the grand. A few worth noting:
The Woolly Worm Festival in Banner Elk, which celebrates caterpillars racing and mountain folklore. southernliving.com
Small-town harvest celebrations, art fairs, heritage days and local culture festivals featured in calendars of NC festivals. carolinacountry.com+1
Specialty festivals around food, nature, music, craft and locale in towns across the state.
How to Choose the Right Festival for You
With so many incredible options, how do you pick? Here are some tips:
Match your interest: Are you into music & urban culture, heritage & tradition, food & agriculture, or family-friendly fair vibes?
Consider region: Coast (Wilmington, Burgaw), Piedmont/City (Charlotte, Fayetteville, Winston-Salem), Mountains (Linville, Banner Elk).
Time of year: Spring (Azalea, Dogwood), Summer (Highland Games, Blueberry), Fall (Classic Fair, Renaissance), Off-beat seasons for quirky festivals.
Audience: Families with kids? Couples? Groups of friends? Local enthusiasts? There’s a festival for each.
Stay ahead of dates & tickets: Many events have limited capacity or fast moves. Check official sites.
Plan Your Festival Adventure in North Carolina
To make the most of your festival experience:
Book lodging early, especially in peak season or mountain towns.
Factor in travel time—mountain roads or beach traffic can add hours.
Pack for weather: mountains can cool off fast; spring may still be chilly.
Arrive early, especially for big parades, performances or special events.
Explore surroundings: festivals are one piece of the visit—towns, nature, cuisine add layers to the experience.
Share your experience: the best festival moments are meant to be remembered, photographed and told.
Conclusion – Your Passport to the Best Festivals in the Tar Heel State
When it comes to annual festivals in North Carolina, the variety and richness are simply outstanding. From the floral elegance of the Azalea Festival to the muscular heritage of the Highland Games, from costumed theatrical fun at the Renaissance Festival to the urban energy of Charlotte SHOUT!, these top ten must-experience festivals truly showcase the culture, landscape, history and community of the state.
If you’re planning a trip or looking for your next memorable outing, pick the festival that aligns with your interests, lock in your dates, and dive into one of North Carolina’s most iconic annual events. Get ready to make memories, share stories, and experience the very best of the Tar Heel State’s festival scene.