NC Gator Fest Returns: Alligator-Themed Celebration With Vendors, Live Music, and Family Fun Set for April 25

N.C. Gator Fest arrives April 25 at Elizabeth Brinkley Park in Lake Waccamaw. This fourth annual gathering brings over 50 vendors, food trucks, live bands, and no-cost activities for kids.

First Send Racing starts things off at 8 a.m. The Gator 5K Walk/Run and one-mile Gator Dash take place on Columbia Avenue. At 10 a.m., the marketplace opens alongside kids' games, food stands, and learning stations.

Kids can play free carnival games for prizes. They'll ride horses and board the gator train. A petting zoo awaits. Face painters will work their magic. Flimsy the Clown performs throughout the afternoon, while the Flamingo Foam Party runs all day long.

Five bands perform until sundown. Music lovers can hear Patricia Charlton Duo, Chris Nash, Jeffery Simmons, Later Gator, and The Ford Project.

Vendors will offer handmade items including everything from art to jewelry to baked goods. Lake Waccamaw officials will sell raffle tickets, too.

Council Tool Company marks 140 years with an axe-throwing contest featuring their "Flying Fox" axe. Dixie Youth girls run a dunking booth where local participants get soaked. The East Columbus High School Art Department created special t-shirts in multiple styles and sizes.

Volunteers are needed. Contact Ginger Dortmund Littrell or message the Gator Festival Facebook page. Elizabeth Brinkley Park sits at 90 Bald Cypress Circle off Sam Potts Highway.