Wilmington Azalea Festival (2023) | Christian Tours – Motorcoach/Bus charters, rentals & vacations. Cruises, International tours, Christian travel

Day 1

WILMINGTON, NC • EAGLE ISLAND CRUISE • DINNER:

We set off this morning for the coast and the beautiful North Carolina Azalea Festival. Upon arrival we embark on an Eagle Island Cruise around Historic Wilmington, NC. We sail north along Historic Downtown Wilmington and Eagles Island where you see the past come alive. Capture unique views of the World War II battleship USS North Carolina, learn about rice plantations, and view shipwrecks, flora, and fauna. We have dinner together at one of the local restaurants before checking into our hotel. (D)

Day 2

NORTH CAROLINA AZALEA FESTIVAL PARADE • STREET FAIR • BELLAMY MANSION MUSEUM • FIREWORKS:

This morning we take our seats for the North Carolina Azalea Festival Parade. Colorful parade floats, marching bands, multi-cultural performers & giant character balloons are some of the things we see during the parade. After the parade we head to the bustling Waterfront Street Fair for music and an array of food and shopping opportunities. Next we tour Bellamy Mansion Museum, one of North Carolina's most spectacular examples of antebellum architecture. The mansion, carriage house, and original slave quarters comprise a complete site where visitors hear not only the stories of the Bellamy family, but those of the free and enslaved black artisans who built the home on the eve of the Civil War, and those of the enslaved workers who resided on property. This evening, a favorite Festival event, fireworks are presented over the majestic Cape Fear River.

Day 3

AIRLIE GARDENS • HOME:

We enjoy a beautiful stroll through Airlie Gardens this morning. A premiere garden of the coastal South, the garden features 67 acres of walking paths, formal gardens, seasonal blooms, mighty live oaks, historic structures, and contemporary sculpture. A member of the North Carolina Birding Trail, its diverse ecosystems provide unique habitats for a variety of colorful wildlife. We return home arriving early in the evening.