Azalea Festival changes Queen’s Coronation boat arrival

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — With the Azalea Festival only a month away, it’s a tradition for the festival Queen to arrive to the Queen’s Coronation on the Henrietta but this year that will change.

It was announced early this year that the river boat would be leaving the Port City which means that would break a long standing tradition for the festival.

Azalea Festival President Robby Collins says they are disappointed that the Henrietta will be relocated, but says change is a normal part of any event that has thrived for 69 years.

Organizers add they are looking for another vessel to bring the queen in on but have not been able to find the right fit yet.