2025 Azalea Garden Tour

by Mar 17, 2025Events, North Brunswick, Online Exclusives, Wilmington

Explore the 2025 Azalea Garden Tour, April 4–6, featuring stunning gardens, Secret Gardens, and free Airlie Gardens admission with your ticket.

Spring is in full bloom, and the 2025 Azalea Garden Tour, sponsored by the Cape Fear Garden Club, is just around the corner! From Friday, April 4th, through Sunday, April 6th, explore nine breathtaking gardens and the inspiring Rise Up Community Farm, where crops are grown to support those in need.

This year’s theme, “A Canopy of Blooms,” highlights the vibrant landscapes and majestic Live Oak trees that make Wilmington’s gardens so unique. Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast or simply looking for a serene weekend activity, this self-guided tour offers something for everyone.

A cluster of pink roses in various stages of bloom is surrounded by green leaves. The background shows lush greenery and a glimpse of a building under a clear blue sky.

Event Highlights
Ribbon Cutting & Queen’s Garden Party©
Kick off the weekend with a special ceremony at UNCW’s Kenan House on Friday, April 4th, at 9:30 AM. Hosted by Jeff Rivenbark of WWAY-TV, the event features a performance by the Coastal Christian High School Choir, followed by light refreshments and the Cape Fear Garden Club’s famous homemade cookies.

Three Secret Gardens
Accessible only by trolley from Harbor Way Gardens at Wrightsville Beach, these hidden gems promise delightful surprises. Enjoy free parking at Harbor Way Gardens, which also features charming walkways and unique water features.

A charming two-story house with a sloped roof, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant flowers. A curved concrete path leads to the entrance, and white wooden chairs are placed on the lawn under a clear blue sky.

Airlie Gardens Admission
Your Garden Tour ticket includes free admission to Airlie Gardens on Saturday and Sunday, making it the perfect opportunity to explore one of Wilmington’s most treasured attractions.

Benefit Art Sale
On Sunday, April 6th, visit Garden #10 in historic Forest Hills for a special Benefit Art Sale. Watch talented plein air artists create stunning works throughout the weekend, then purchase your favorite pieces.

A charming cottage with a white facade and brown roof is surrounded by a lush garden. Bright pink and yellow flowers are in bloom near the entrance, and a clear blue sky is overhead.

Azalea Ambassadors
Meet the Azalea Ambassadors, local high school students from New Hanover County, who will greet guests at each garden and share the rich history of the tour.

Tour Details
• Dates: Friday, April 4 – Sunday, April 6, 2025
$50 per person (children under 12 are free with a paid adult)
• Parking: On-street parking is available at seven gardens; trolley access is required for the Secret Gardens.

A sunny outdoor patio features cushioned seating, a table with an umbrella, and potted plants. The stone floor adds texture, while lush greenery surrounds the area, creating a relaxing garden ambiance.

How to Purchase Tickets
• Online at www.azaleagardentour.com by March 27th (tickets delivered via USPS).

Why Attend?
This 72nd annual tour not only celebrates Wilmington’s stunning gardens but also marks the 100th anniversary of the Cape Fear Garden Club. Proceeds from the tour support local beautification projects and scholarships, making your participation a meaningful way to give back to the community.

Don’t miss this incredible weekend of natural beauty, art, and history. Grab your tickets HERE and experience a Wilmington tradition like no other!

Photography by Mark Steelman

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