The Ultimate Guide to North Carolina

Events in 2025

North Carolina is packed with exciting events in 2025, and as the weather warms up, the state comes alive with festivals, concerts, sports, and cultural celebrations. Whether you’re a foodie, a music lover, or a thrill-seeking sports fan, there’s something happening in every corner of the Tar Heel State.

From iconic music festivals to legendary BBQ competitions and high-energy NASCAR races, here’s your guide to the biggest events in North Carolina in 2025

Spring: Festivals, Music, and Sports Take Center Stage

March: Arts & Culture Kick Off the Season

🎭 Carolina Ballet Presents Alice in Wonderland (March 13-30, Raleigh)
Experience a mesmerizing world premiere ballet as Alice takes a whimsical journey through Wonderland. A must-see for lovers of dance and theater!

April: Music, Blooms, and BBQ

🌸 North Carolina Azalea Festival (April 2-6, Wilmington)
Spring is in full bloom, and there’s no better way to celebrate than at Wilmington’s biggest festival. Enjoy breathtaking garden tours, live entertainment, a vibrant parade, and Southern hospitality at its finest.

🎶 Dreamville Festival (April 5-6, Raleigh)
J. Cole’s iconic hip-hop festival returns for its final edition at Dorothea Dix Park. With a stellar lineup of artists and a lively crowd, this is a can’t-miss event for music fans.

🏎 NASCAR Race at Rockingham Speedway (April 18, Rockingham)
Feel the adrenaline as NASCAR returns to this historic track, delivering high-speed excitement and legendary racing moments.

May: Foodie Heaven & Championship Sports

🍓 Carolina Strawberry Festival (May 3, Wallace)
If you love fresh strawberries, this is the place to be! Enjoy live music, delicious strawberry treats, local vendors, and plenty of family-friendly fun.

🔥 BBQ Fest on the Neuse (May 2-3, Kinston)
Calling all BBQ lovers! This festival is home to one of North Carolina’s largest whole-hog cooking contests, bringing together pitmasters, live music, and unbeatable flavors.

⛳ PGA Championship at Quail Hollow (May 15-18, Charlotte)
Golf’s elite players will battle it out at this prestigious championship in one of the sport’s most beautiful settings.

🏎 NASCAR Race at North Wilkesboro Speedway (May 16-18, North Wilkesboro)
Another major NASCAR event in NC! Witness thrilling, side-by-side racing at one of the most historic tracks in the sport.

Fall: Fairs, Festivals, and Small-Town Charm

October: State Fair, Fall Festivals & More

🎡 North Carolina State Fair (October 16-26, Raleigh)
The biggest event of the fall! Enjoy thrilling rides, live entertainment, deep-fried everything, and an endless lineup of family-friendly activities.

🌺 MumFest (October 11-12, New Bern)
A charming waterfront festival that blends live music, artisan vendors, and stunning fall flowers for a perfect autumn weekend.

Year-Round Cultural Festivals

🌎 LEAF Festival (Dates TBD, Black Mountain)
A celebration of world music, arts, and culture nestled in the stunning mountains of western North Carolina. With performances, workshops, and diverse cuisine, this festival is a unique and immersive experience.

Why You Should Visit North Carolina in 2025

With its rich culture, dynamic music scene, thrilling sports events, and mouthwatering food festivals, North Carolina offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, this lineup of events ensures you’ll never run out of things to do.