2027 Azalea Festival reveals concert headliners, new look for 80th anniversary
WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The North Carolina Azalea Festival has announced The Avett Brothers and NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, performing as DJ Diesel, as the headliners for its 80th anniversary concert series in 2027.
The two-night concert series, sponsored by Atlantic Union Bank, will take place at Live Oak Bank Pavilion in downtown Wilmington during the festival’s milestone celebration.
DJ Diesel will perform Thursday, April 8, followed by The Avett Brothers on Friday, April 9.
O’Neal, best known for his basketball career, has also established himself as an electronic dance music DJ, performing at festivals and venues around the world.
The Avett Brothers, a North Carolina-based band known for blending folk, rock and bluegrass, will return to the Azalea Festival stage for the anniversary celebration.
Festival unveils new look for 80th anniversary
Along with announcing the concert lineup, festival organizers revealed a complete brand refresh during the Setting the Stage event held Saturday, Oct. 24, at Cinespace Studios Stage 8.
The updated branding is intended to honor the festival’s history while introducing a new look for future celebrations.
Organizers also announced a redesigned website that will provide information about festival events, tickets, sponsorship opportunities and ways to participate.
“As we celebrate 80 years of The North Carolina Azalea Festival, we are honoring an extraordinary legacy while boldly embracing what comes next,” said Melissa Lasarsky, executive director of the North Carolina Azalea Festival.
“Our refreshed brand reflects both our responsibility to steward the traditions that generations have built and our commitment to creating new possibilities for the future. Announcing The Avett Brothers and DJ Diesel is an exciting way to set the tone for our 80th Festival, bringing together different generations, musical styles, and experiences in a celebration that is uniquely Wilmington. And I can promise you one thing – we’re only getting started. There is so much more to come, and we can’t wait to share what’s blooming next.”
Celebrating 80 years in Wilmington
The North Carolina Azalea Festival began in 1948 as a celebration of spring and has since grown into an annual event featuring music, art, gardens, entertainment and community activities.
The 80th North Carolina Azalea Festival is scheduled for April 7–11, 2027.
Organizers say the anniversary celebration will recognize the festival’s history while introducing new experiences for visitors.
Ticket information
Tickets for the 2027 North Carolina Azalea Festival concert series and other festival events will go on sale Monday, Nov. 9, 2026, at noon.
Tickets will be available through the festival’s official website.
Additional announcements and event information are expected as the festival approaches.
