Come Give It A Whirl
North Carolina
Whirligig Festival
Nov 1, 10am-6pm | Nov 2, 11am-5pm
Nov 1, 10am-6pm
Nov 2, 11am-5pm
Shuttle Works
Getting around the NC Whirligig Festival is easier than ever! Thanks to our friends at Shuttle Works, you can track our shuttle and rickshaws in real time! Click to view the map and see when the next shuttle will arrive at the designated stops.
Festival Guide - 2025
Our Festival Guide page has everything you need to plan a perfect festival day! From a parking map to help you arrive with ease, to a detailed festival map showing stages, booths, and bathrooms, this page covers it all. Get ready to explore, enjoy, and make the most of your festival experience!
Delicious Food
The North Carolina Whirligig Festival hosts about 40 food vendors each year. From Wilson staples to those from near and far, there’s something for everyone. So come hungry and ready to eat at the festival. Join us and enjoy the delicious food choices available.
Fun Activities
The North Carolina Whirligig Festival offers fun for all ages! Watch active artists create masterpieces in real-time, bounce your heart out on extreme inflatables, or entertain the smallest Whirligigers at our Kids Zone. All activities and entertainment provided by the festival are completely free to enjoy.
Live Music
The North Carolina Whirligig Festival brings in art vendors, local musicians, bands, and more each year. Come out to be entertained by vibrant art displays, live music performances on four stages, interactive activities, and a lively atmosphere. Don’t miss the celebration!
Our History
The North Carolina Whirligig Festival was created in 2004 to encourage community spirit and unity. Vollis Simpson’s iconic Whirligigs, uniquely Wilson symbols, were the perfect focal point. Since then, the festival has been held annually during the first full weekend in November to celebrate people and art in motion. Keep an eye on the festival’s channels for old and new surprises to celebrate twenty one years of whirli-good fun.
Volunteer Resources
Volunteers, be sure to visit our Volunteer Page for essential resources to help you have a great experience! You’ll find a parking map to make your arrival easy, a detailed festival map highlighting key areas, and a list of FAQs to answer any questions you might have. Checking these resources in advance will ensure you’re prepared to navigate the festival smoothly and assist attendees with confidence.
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Need Somewhere to Crash?
If you’re planning to visit the North Carolina Whirligig Festival and need a comfortable place to stay, Wilson has a variety of accommodations to suit your preferences. Enjoy rest and relaxation at a variety of air BnBs, or opt for modern comfort at local hotels. We can’t wait to welcome you to Wilson.
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Vendor Applications Open Now
The North Carolina Whirligig Festival is now accepting vendor applications. The festival attracts over 50,000 attendees each year, with this year’s event anticipated to be the largest yet. We can’t think of a better way to expose your business to new customers! Vendor categories include food, arts & crafts, non-profits, commercial businesses, and downtown merchants. For more information and to fill out your application, click below. For questions or concerns, email info@whirligigfestivalnc.org.
Sponsor Application 2025
Support the NC Whirligig Festival and gain valuable exposure by becoming a sponsor! Join us in making a lasting impact while showcasing your brand to a vibrant and engaged audience. Sign up today to be a sponsor through the official application by clicking the button. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with the community and stand out!
