Cole Bros. Circus not part of NC Azalea Festival this year

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A long-time tradition that comes with the annual North Carolina Azalea Festival fun won’t return to Wilmington this year.

In fact, according to a release from a spokeswoman, festival organizers were told the circus won’t be traveling anywhere this year.

The release went on to say Cole Bros. did not give a specific reason for the decision.

For years, the circus drew crowds to the big-top tent that set up shop with several shows at Wilmington’s International Airport.

This year’s North Carolina Azalea Festival starts April 6.