Visitor Economy

3 stories

Azalea Festival's $50M Impact Claim Anchors Wilmington's Tourism Pitch — But the Study Behind It Is from 2011

Wilmington's Azalea Festival claims $50M+ in impact and 250,000 visitors based on a 2011 UNCW study — but no updated analysis backs the numbers. What that gap means for investors.

Marcus Lane

Apr 09 2026

Business

Wilson Center's Grammy-Caliber Bookings Signal Maturing Venue Strategy

Wilson Center's March lineup including Grammy winner Samara Joy, signals growing programming depth at Wilmington's $36.5M performing arts venue.

Maya Shelton

Mar 30 2026

Events

Azalea Festival Projects $20.8M in Visitor Spending Across Wilmington

Wilmington's Azalea Festival projects $20.8M in visitor spending over five days — what it means for hospitality, retail, and the Q2 tourism calendar.

Maya Shelton

Mar 29 2026

Events