Source: WRAL
Dix Park in Raleigh is known for hosting many events throughout the year. Dreamville Festival and the holiday light show are a few that come to mind that drive thousands through the park’s gates yearly. There is another event that drives thousands of people through the gates all looking for the perfect photo opportunity to capture one of nature’s most beautiful creations. No, I’m not talking about myself but if you guessed sunflowers then you are correct.
It’s time for the Dix Park sunflowers to bloom and people are already excited for what this year’s edition of nature has to bring. Earlier this year 280,000 sunflower seeds were planted at Dix Park. The field is located on Hunt Drive between Western Blvd. and Umstead Drive. The event is free to the public but there are a few things you need to know before visiting.
There will be food trucks at the park to celebrate the occasion on the following days:
- Friday July 21 from 5 to 9 p.m.
- Saturday July 22 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 5 to 9 p.m.
On July 22, there will also be live acoustic music from local artists and beer from Trophy Brewing between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m.
During weekdays visitors should park at the gravel lots on Hunt Drive and the parking lot near Magnolia Room, 1800 Umstead Drive as Dix Park is still used by local and state entities and construction. On weekends you can park on any lot. There are port-a-johns on site and an accessible parking lot and access pathway leading to the fields located at 1800 Umstead Drive.
We all know you want to capture that special photo of you and the sunflowers so keep in mind that you can take all of the professional photos you desire. If you are looking to do some commercial photography please get permission from the city’s parks, recreation and cultural resources department. Drones are not allowed. It is recommended that you keep in mind this is nature so there will be bugs, prepare accordingly. This is also the hottest part of the year so hydrate and the best times to visit are sunrise and sunset for less heat and those picturesque moments.
Just a reminder that city park rules apply in Dix Park. Do not pick or eat the sunflowers. The sunflowers are for the birds and other wildlife to enjoy in the fall months. No off-the-leash pets are allowed so keep those pets on the leash, folks. Also, there are to be no weapons, alcoholic beverages, or smoking/vape products. Public park rules will be enforced when visiting the sunflower fields. Outside of that, enjoy one of nature’s finest creations and post those photos on social media tagging NC Voices on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.
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