What is Sunfest in North Carolina, you ask? It's just the brightest festival all season and it takes place around the middle of July every year and on July 14, 2024. Destination SunFest at Raleigh's Dix Park celebrates the summer in grand style - with acres and acres of blooming sunflowers and you'll want to see them and take part in this one-day event that has something for everyone. Trust us on this one, when it comes to summer festivals in NC, you won't want to miss this one.

The sunflower festival takes place at the expected height of the sunflower bloom which is perfect timing to see them at their best. As a result, this is one of the best sunflower festivals in North Carolina.

In 2010, the city began planting sunflowers along the Neuse River, and in 2018, the field moved to Dorothea Dix Park. At the end of the bloom season, the city harvests the seeds and turns them into thousands of gallons of biodiesel fuel to run tractors and more. It's a win-win.

The family-friendly SunFest is filled with a variety of ways to spend the day.

From live performances to art and craft vendors, and attractions for the kids, this FREE event is even more special because you can walk among the sunflowers.

You'll just need to stay on the walking paths as you meander through the bright, yellow fields.

This is a perfect spot to enjoy meandering around these lovely flowers. Take some pictures and enjoy the brightly-colored sunflowers. These tall and brilliant sunflowers certainly do make me smile; what about you? Don't you just love these amazing fields?

The fun-filled day also features live music.

Feel free to bring lawn chairs or a blanket and set up a base camp right in the park. Dorothea Dix, with its clear view of the Raleigh skyline, is a spectacular place to spend the day. A twangy sound of bluegrass music will fill the air as the performance will be the grand finale of this wonderful day.

Make sure to bring those kiddos because food and games are on tap as well. There will be a variety of fun activities for the little ones which is sure to put a smile on their face like the sunflowers put a smile on my face.

The kids (and the kids at heart) will love this FREE festival. (Everything but the food is free!)

There will be loads of food vendors on site with unique brews, chews, and something new. You certainly won't go hungry as the smell of freshly cooked food will lure you in. There will also be multiple creative booths for people to enjoy, shop for a new gift, or just simply get inspired by the creativity of others.

Load up the backpack with all of the necessities and plan to spend the day celebrating at Destination SunFest at Dorothea Dix Park in Raleigh. Sunfest is sure to make your summer in North Carolina memorable.

Of course, if you can't make it to Sunfest to see the gorgeous sea of gold at Dix Park, you can always see it another day. You won't need a special event to have access to these lovely flowers. Take a stroll through the flowers anytime you like while they are fresh and in bloom.

The fields are expected to be in full bloom this year during the first two weeks of July. Sweet!

Put this awesome event on your calendar now and make plans to attend this spectacular sunflower festival in North Carolina.

SunFest in North Carolina takes place from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. on July 14, 2024. To preserve the integrity of the park, no parking will be available on the campus; however, FREE parking is available at NC State Centennial Campus, which will require some walking so make sure you bring the proper footwear. The lots are close enough, however, so you should have no problem walking. The free lots are accessible via Centennial Parkway (via Lake Wheeler Road and I-40, or Avent Ferry Road). All rides and activities at SunFest are free. Feel free to bring chairs, blankets, and even food and non-alcoholic drinks, but pets must stay home. Make sure you check out the map for parking and all the other details on this year's event by visiting Dorothea Dix Park's website.

While you are in town, here are some other ideas for a weekend in Raleigh, North Carolina. Then if you need a place to stay for your city getaway, book a night at this modern backyard studio.