N.C. Summer Festival MUST-Do's
Looking for a fun road trip or adventure with friends to break up the long, hot summer ahead of us? North Carolina is home to over 75 free festivals throughout the summer months full of food, competitions, and activities. While a fruit festival might not seem all that intriguing — one can handle only so many peaches and blueberries — there are many other equally fun and exciting small town festivals to take part of. Because you’re never too old to jump in a bouncy house or eat any number of fried foods, here’s a list of some of the greatest NC festivals to come this summer!
This small coastal town is full of pristine lake and river access for the perfect start to summer. With live music, arts and crafts, a homey farmer’s market, and a free street festival to highlight the start of endless summer nights on the water, this local festival is a must do for anyone who loves a good home cooked meal.
While staring at endless mounds of blueberries may not be your thing, you’re sure to appreciate the simple fruit after a weekend in the quaint town of Burgaw, just outside of Wilmington. Make it a beach day and stop off at this historic festival featuring live local musicians, a street fair full of memorable commodities, and a 5K if you’re feeling motivated. Don’t forget to taste test the winners of their 16th annual BBQ contest while you’re at it!
Time to break out your multicolored eno and pitch a tent at Eno City Park in Durham for this two-day festival with 70 bands and five stages ready to celebrate Independence Day with gusto. Featuring local crafts and artisans of food and drink, this is the perfect place to embrace the explosion of culture right in our backyard and spend a day in the treetops of your favorite Eno.
Peaches aren’t all you’ll find in Candor, N.C., about 45 minutes south of Asheboro. Known as the Peach Capital of NC, this small town is home to some of the best fruits you have ever tasted not to mention this annual two-day festival featuring a parade, any number of arts and crafts, a very popular street fair, and over 100 vendors selling locally sourced, homemade treats. Don’t miss out on this N.C. tradition, even if peaches aren’t your cup of tea!
If you’re looking for an odd adventure, take a trip out to Valdese, NC for their historic coming home festival for the exiled international Waldenes family. This celebration is mirrored around the world, but since 1970, has taken place in our small, North Carolina town. Featuring local live musicians and 80’s throwback hits, as well as any number of unique crafts, and high quality food, this festival is a fun excursion for anyone looking to trade the hot, summer sun for a cool, shaded festival.
This Cary festival is the perfect way to conclude summer and have one last weekend of relaxation before returning to school. Featuring all kinds of local and artisanal crafts, as well as 45 food trucks, local theaters and musicians, this festival is a perfect way to get away from the stress of returning to school. Spend the morning, the evening, or the whole day, and enjoy this quaint, but fun Cary festival.
