A Guide to the Best Festivals in North Carolina

North Carolina has a wealth of festivals, from the annual North Carolina State Fair to the world-famous National Folk Festival. Whether you are looking for a cultural celebration, a music festival, a food festival, or an outdoor adventure, North Carolina has something for everyone. Here is a guide to the best festivals in North Carolina that you won’t want to miss.

North Carolina State Fair

The North Carolina State Fair is the oldest and largest fair in the state. Held in October, the fair features over a hundred rides, games, and attractions, along with live music, food, art, and crafts. There’s something for everyone, from the traditional fair favorites like cotton candy and corn dogs to more adventurous attractions like laser tag and zip lines. With the state fair, you can experience the local culture and cuisine in one exciting location.

National Folk Festival

The National Folk Festival is one of the largest multicultural celebrations in the US, held annually in Greensboro. Featuring over 300 performers from around the world, this festival celebrates the diversity of music and culture from all corners of the globe. Musicians, dancers, storytellers, and artists perform traditional and contemporary music, dance, and storytelling from every region of the world. The festival also includes workshops, parades, and other activities to enjoy.

MerleFest

MerleFest is an annual music festival held in Wilkesboro in April. The festival was started in 1988 to honor the legacy of Merle Watson, a Grammy-winning bluegrass musician and son of folk musician Doc Watson. MerleFest features over 100 of the best folk, bluegrass, and roots music artists, with performances on multiple stages throughout the weekend. There are also workshops, jam sessions, and an array of food vendors to keep you full throughout the festival.

Bele Chere Festival

The Bele Chere Festival is one of the largest free outdoor festivals in the Southeast. Held in Asheville, the festival features over 800 vendors, including arts and crafts, food, and entertainment. There are also street performers, live music, and a kid’s zone. Bele Chere is a great place to experience the unique culture of Asheville, and with its free admission, it’s an event that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Wake Forest Wine Festival

The Wake Forest Wine Festival is a two-day event held in April that celebrates the art of winemaking. With over 150 wineries from all over the world, this festival allows visitors to sample wines from around the world and purchase their favorites. There are also seminars, workshops, and a marketplace featuring local artisans. The Wake Forest Wine Festival is the perfect opportunity to learn more about winemaking and enjoy a variety of wines.

Cape Fear Music Festival

The Cape Fear Music Festival is an annual music festival held in Wilmington. The festival celebrates a variety of genres, from jazz and blues to rock and country. It features over 40 bands on multiple stages, along with food vendors, art installations, and other activities. The Cape Fear Music Festival is a great way to enjoy the local music scene and experience the culture of Wilmington.

Charlotte Oktoberfest

Charlotte Oktoberfest is an annual fall festival held in Charlotte. The festival features traditional Oktoberfest activities, such as beer tastings, German food, and live music. There are also a variety of activities for the whole family, including a carnival, face painting, and a variety of vendors selling handmade goods. Charlotte Oktoberfest is a great way to celebrate the fall season with friends and family.

Greenville Heritage Festival

The Greenville Heritage Festival is an annual music and arts festival held in Greenville. The festival features over 200 performers, including national and local musicians, as well as a variety of artisans. There are also food vendors, a kids’ zone, and a beer garden. The Greenville Heritage Festival is the perfect way to experience the culture and diversity of the city.

Highland Games

The Highland Games is an annual event held in Fayetteville. This event celebrates Scottish culture and heritage, with traditional games such as caber tossing, hammer throwing, and Highland dancing. There are also food vendors, live music, and a Scottish market. The Highland Games is a great way to experience the culture of Scotland without leaving North Carolina.

Asheville Brewgrass Festival

The Asheville Brewgrass Festival is an annual music and beer festival held in Asheville. With over 30 breweries and over 100 bands, this festival celebrates the best of the local music and craft beer scenes. There are also food vendors, art installations, and a variety of activities for the whole family. The Asheville Brewgrass Festival is the perfect way to experience the unique culture of Asheville.

Riverfest

Riverfest is an annual music and arts festival held in Wilmington. With over 100 bands, vendors, and art installations, this festival celebrates the culture of the city. There are also food vendors, a kids’ zone, and a variety of activities. Riverfest is the perfect way to experience the culture and diversity of Wilmington.

Wilmington Beer and Wine Festival

The Wilmington Beer and Wine Festival is an annual event held in Wilmington. With over 50 breweries, wineries, and cideries from around the world, this festival celebrates the best of the craft beer and wine scenes. There are also food vendors and art installations, as well as a variety of activities. The Wilmington Beer and Wine Festival is the perfect way to experience the culture of the city.

North Carolina is home to some of the best festivals in the US, with something to offer for everyone from music and art lovers to foodies and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you are looking for a cultural celebration, a music festival, a food festival, or an outdoor adventure, North Carolina has something for everyone. This guide to the best festivals in North Carolina will help you find the perfect event for your next vacation.

Summary

North Carolina has a wealth of festivals that celebrate the culture, music, and cuisine of the state. From the North Carolina State Fair to the National Folk Festival, there are a variety of events to experience. Whether you are looking for a music festival, a food festival, or an outdoor adventure, North Carolina has something to offer. This guide to the best festivals in North Carolina will help you find the perfect event for your next vacation.