Queen Azalea Visits Local Hospital to Spread Cheer

Elaine Hendrix and her court bring Azalea Festival festivities to patients unable to attend public events.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 10:54pm

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A soft, out-of-focus photograph in warm, pastel tones depicting a group of people, possibly hospital patients and visitors, engaged in playful activities, capturing the uplifting and celebratory mood of the Azalea Festival visit.The Queen Azalea's annual hospital visit brings the joy and community spirit of the Azalea Festival to those unable to attend the public events.Wilmington Today

This year's Queen Azalea, Elaine Hendrix, along with her court, paid a visit to Novant Health Betty H. Cameron Women's and Children's Hospital in Wilmington, North Carolina. The annual event aims to bring the Azalea Festival to kids and families who are unable to participate in the public events due to their treatments.

Why it matters

The hospital visit is an important part of the Azalea Festival, allowing the Queen and her court to connect with the community's most vulnerable members and spread some joy during difficult times.

The details

During the visit, Hendrix and her court colored with patients, played basketball and air hockey, and spent quality time with the kids and families at the hospital. The goal is to make those who are unable to attend the festival feel included and uplifted.

  • The visit took place on Thursday, April 9, 2026.

The players

Elaine Hendrix

This year's Queen Azalea, known for her role as Meredith Blake in 'The Parent Trap' and as a contestant on 'Dancing With the Stars'.

Novant Health Betty H. Cameron Women's and Children's Hospital

The hospital in Wilmington, North Carolina that hosted the Queen Azalea and her court for the annual visit.

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What they’re saying

“It's just such an uplifting day. This is a day we always look forward to on the calendar.”

— Victoria Bellamy, Novant Health community engagement manager

“There's nothing like being sick or injured or unwell in some form to make you feel very vulnerable. I think we need to rally around the most vulnerable.”

— Elaine Hendrix

“I've been to Wilmington a total of two times, and both were because of the festival, and I wouldn't have it any other way. I think it's such a special weekend to be a part of.”

— Elaine Hendrix

The takeaway

The Queen Azalea's hospital visit is a heartwarming tradition that brings the joy and community spirit of the Azalea Festival to those who are unable to participate, reminding us of the importance of supporting and uplifting the most vulnerable members of our society.