Queen Azalea Crowned at NC Azalea Festival

Annual celebration in Wilmington honors local culture and spring blooms.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 10:46pm

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An impressionistic, blurred photograph in soft, warm tones depicting a crowd of people walking through a park filled with blooming azalea flowers, conceptually representing the joyful energy and community spirit of Wilmington's annual flower festival.The vibrant weekend celebration of Wilmington's annual Azalea Festival brings the community together to honor the city's rich cultural heritage and natural springtime beauty.Wilmington Today

The 2026 North Carolina Azalea Festival in Wilmington has crowned its new Queen Azalea, a local woman selected to represent the city's rich history, vibrant arts scene, and annual springtime flower festival that draws visitors from across the region.

Why it matters

The Azalea Festival is a beloved annual tradition in Wilmington, celebrating the city's identity as the "Azalea Coast" and showcasing its Southern charm, natural beauty, and community spirit. The crowning of the Queen Azalea is a highlight of the multi-day event, honoring a local woman who embodies the festival's spirit.

The details

This year's Queen Azalea is Sophia Wilkins, a 27-year-old Wilmington native and elementary school teacher. Sophia was selected from a pool of local applicants to serve as the festival's royal ambassador, participating in parades, galas, and other events throughout the weekend celebration.

  • The 2026 North Carolina Azalea Festival took place April 3-6 in Wilmington.
  • Sophia Wilkins was crowned as Queen Azalea on the opening night of the festival, April 3rd.

The players

Sophia Wilkins

The 27-year-old Wilmington native and elementary school teacher who was crowned as the 2026 Queen Azalea.

North Carolina Azalea Festival

An annual multi-day celebration in Wilmington, North Carolina that honors the city's identity as the "Azalea Coast" and its vibrant arts, culture, and natural beauty.

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What they’re saying

“I'm so honored to represent Wilmington and our Azalea Festival this year. It's a dream come true to be able to share the beauty and spirit of our city with visitors from near and far.”

— Sophia Wilkins, 2026 Queen Azalea

What’s next

Queen Azalea Sophia Wilkins will lead the festival's grand parade on April 5th and make appearances at various events throughout the weekend celebration.

The takeaway

The crowning of Queen Azalea is a cherished tradition that highlights Wilmington's rich cultural heritage, natural splendor, and community pride - all on full display during the beloved annual Azalea Festival.