2026 Azalea Garden Tour blooms April 10–12 with 13 inspiring gardens, shuttles to secret stops, and proceeds supporting local nonprofits.
Photography by Eric Kozen
A beloved local sign that spring is near, the 2026 Azalea Garden Tour is fast approaching, inviting residents and visitors to step inside some of the area’s most inspiring private landscapes from Friday, April 10 through Sunday, April 12.
This year’s theme, “The Joy of April—Gardens to Inspire,” celebrates the creativity and care of homeowners who plan, plant, and tend their gardens year-round. Across the tour, guests will find everything from peaceful spaces designed for solitude and reflection to welcoming outdoor areas made for entertaining family and friends.
What to expect on the tour
In total, the tour features 13 gardens, each reflecting the personal style of its owner. Visitors can look forward to a wide variety of garden designs and features, including:
• Raised flower, herb, and vegetable beds
• Statuary and garden art
• Water sculptures and focal features
• Cozy nooks for quiet enjoyment
• Outdoor gathering spaces built for hosting
Photography by Mark Steelman
Several of the tour stops include “secret gardens” located in a thriving, younger neighborhood. Those gardens are accessed via shuttle: patrons will drive to the parking area across from Carolina Bay Retirement Center off Carolina Bay Drive, then take the shuttle to the secret garden locations. Along the way, riders will also pass two Honorable Mention gardens recognized for their unique beauty.
The tour also includes Wrightsville Beach’s Harbor Way Gardens on all three days. Historic Airlie Gardens will be included on April 11 and 12.
Ribbon Cutting and Queen’s Garden Party
The tour weekend begins with the Ribbon Cutting and Queen’s Garden Party for the 73rd Azalea Garden Tour on Friday, April 10 at 9:30 a.m. at the Cameron Art Museum, located at the intersection of 17th Street and Independence Boulevard.
Jeff Rivenbark of WWAY-TV will serve as emcee, with entertainment provided by Coastal Strings. Light refreshments will be served.
Photography by Megan Deitz
Throughout the tour, patrons will be welcomed at each garden by Azalea Ambassadors—New Hanover County high school students—alongside members of the Cape Fear Garden Club.
Tickets and purchasing information
Tickets are $50 each, with children under 12 admitted free when accompanied by an adult. Tickets are non-refundable.
Tickets may be purchased in the following ways:
1. Online by credit card at www.azaleagardentour.com (available before March 27; tickets delivered by USPS)
2. Check or cash at local vendors listed at azaleagardentour.com
3. Check or cash at the tour gardens or the shuttle stop during the days of the tour
Photography by Megan Deitz
Supporting local nonprofits
Proceeds from the Azalea Garden Tour are returned to New Hanover County nonprofits each year through grants supporting Beautification, Conservation, and Education.
More information
For additional details, contact Barbara Downing at bdowning789@gmail.com or 910-231-9913.
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