The Tar Heel State is somewhat a region of contradictions, torn between new-wave liberalism and the staunch conservatism of days gone by. These contradictions are also geographical in nature, from mountains to sands, and from farmlands to cities. But visitors who come here for nature, sport, barbecue and sightseeing are rarely disappointed, and many return with a craving for more. Part of this attraction stems from the state’s diverse festival scene, with great events all year around.
The three-day Fayetteville Dogwood Festival does it like the good ol’ days, and is one of the most popular events in the whole of the state, drawing visitors from all over the USA. The old-school fair-style event offers fairground rides, famous musicians, food vendors and more. The food offerings are diverse and plentiful, with something to suit every palette, while other attractions offer the very best of Northern Californian art, crafts, pageantry, attractions, entertainers and performers. It’s a very diverse affair with fun and excitement for all the family.
More music is on offer at the North Carolina Jazz Festival, which has a proud history of almost forty years. The festival offers concerts and performances from national and international artists, and more modern and traditional jazz than you can blow a trumpet at! There are also jazz classes, workshops, seminars, discussions and more. Previous artists here have included the likes of Art Hodes, Milt Hinton, Dick Hyman and Ed Polcer. Whatever style or genre you like, and whether you’re a newcomer or a lifelong fan, there’ll be something here to blow your bugle! Those who prefer folk might be more inclined to strum to the tune of Folkmoot USA, a two-week celebration of banjos and fiddles, with over 350 performers.
North Carolina also hosts a smorgasbord of food festivals, with events dedicated to barbecues, apples, pickles, fish and more. North Carolina’s Seafood Festival is one of the biggest days in the state’s calendar, and is a great way to get your lips around plentiful offerings of crab, shrimp and lobster. If it comes from the sea, and its edible, you’ll find it here – and all with a great backdrop of live entertainment and arts and crafts.
Other events throughout the state celebrate the great diversity of the region and its people, with festivals dedicated to arts, crafts, theatre, history, heritage, flowers and more. Come and find one you love!