#TBT: Azalea Festival

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The first Azalea Festival was held back in 1948. It was the brainchild of Dr. W. Houston Moore, M.D. who wanted to celebrate the beautiful gardens all around the city.

During the festival there are garden and home tours, a street fair, concerts, performances, and even a parade.

In 1969 the Azalea Belles were added to the festivities at the suggestion of Harley Vance, the president of the Cape Fear Garden Club at the time. These young ladies wear antebellum style dresses and help guide guests through the gardens.

Over the years the festival has brought a number of celebrities to Wilmington including Ronald Reagan, Andy Griffith, and even Kelly Ripa.

Today the festival celebrates gardens, art, and the history of the Port City.