Azalea Festival boosts downtown businesses

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Wilmington’s mayor is celebrating the success of this year’s Azalea Festival, calling it a strong showing for the community as downtown returns to normal.

City streets have been cleaned following the festival’s festivities, and daily activity has resumed. Still, local businesses are reflecting on the event, which brought a significant increase in customer traffic throughout the weekend.

Beer Barrio, a modern Mexican restaurant located at the corner of North Front and Princess streets, is among those seeing the impact.

Manager Colin Skelly said the restaurant prepares in advance for the festival by increasing staffing levels to meet demand.

Skelly said the team looks forward to the festival each year, particularly as it marks a turning point after the slower winter months.

“Especially after the winter period, when we see a reduction in business, like the Azalea Fest, is the time when we’re like ‘Okay, things are ready to go, we’re going to get busy,’ and it’s definitely a great kick-off for that,” said Skelly.

The Azalea Festival continues to serve as a seasonal boost for downtown businesses, as many now shift their focus into the busier spring and summer months.