The Azalea Festival, first held in 1948, returns to Wilmington, North Carolina, April 11 through 15, 2012.

Azaleas should be in full bloom throughout the city, which has a full calendar of special events planned. Included are a children’s azalea tea, Cole Bros. Circus Big Top, a parade, historic home tour and juried art show.

Centerpiece of the festival for us Road Trips Gardeners, however, is the 5th annual Azalea Garden Tour presented by the Cape Fear Garden Club. The gardens are open for visitors from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. April 13 through 15, 2012.

(Photo courtesy of Cape Fear Garden Club)