Spring is in the air, and there’s no better time to visit Sanford, NC! From lively festivals and outdoor adventures to beautiful blooms and seasonal flavors, this itinerary has everything you need for the perfect spring getaway.
SPRING EVENTS ITINERARY
Spring Events Itinerary

Day One
Stop 1 | Airbnb or Hotel Check-in
Settle into one of many Airbnbs in and around Sanford including a beautiful home built in 1910. Reserve the lower level to enjoy a wrap-around porch and a private entrance leading into a grand foyer, living room, and kitchen. Best of all, this gorgeous place is only four blocks from downtown shopping, restaurants, Temple Theatre, and more. If you prefer a hotel stay, find all our hotel brands and partners here.
Stop 2 | Spring Festivals & Events
Kick off your weekend trip by visiting one of the many festivals and events Sanford has planned all season long. Come experience it all from live music to downtown festivals.
• Farmer's Market Opens – April 5
• Downtown Alive! Concerts – April 14; May 15
• Broadway Our Way – April 19
• Southern Side x Side – April 24-27
• Strawberry Jammin' – May 10
• Ole Mill Crank Up – May 17-18
• Carolina Indie Fest – May 23-24
Stop 3 | Late Night at Local Joe's
For over 20 years, this local pub and restaurant has offered locals and visitors a friendly spot to relax, grab a beer or cocktail, and chow down on delicious wings, burgers, and pizza.
Settle into one of many Airbnbs in and around Sanford including a beautiful home built in 1910. Reserve the lower level to enjoy a wrap-around porch and a private entrance leading into a grand foyer, living room, and kitchen. Best of all, this gorgeous place is only four blocks from downtown shopping, restaurants, Temple Theatre, and more. If you prefer a hotel stay, find all our hotel brands and partners here.
Stop 2 | Spring Festivals & Events
Kick off your weekend trip by visiting one of the many festivals and events Sanford has planned all season long. Come experience it all from live music to downtown festivals.
• Farmer's Market Opens – April 5
• Downtown Alive! Concerts – April 14; May 15
• Broadway Our Way – April 19
• Southern Side x Side – April 24-27
• Strawberry Jammin' – May 10
• Ole Mill Crank Up – May 17-18
• Carolina Indie Fest – May 23-24
Stop 3 | Late Night at Local Joe's
For over 20 years, this local pub and restaurant has offered locals and visitors a friendly spot to relax, grab a beer or cocktail, and chow down on delicious wings, burgers, and pizza.

Day Two
Stop 1 | Farmer’s Market
Shop fresh produce, preserves, and more from local farms. Come meet your local farmers and artisans and celebrate NC agriculture and craftsmanship at the market!
Stop 2 | Dinner at Smoke & Barrel
At this unique neighborhood pub, folks crave the slow-cooked smoked pork, savor the beef brisket, and take delight in live music and drinks.
Stop 3 | Temple Theatre
Catch an amazing show like Ring of Fire at Temple Theatre. The songbook of Johnny Cash comes to life in this musical about love and faith, struggle and success, and the healing power of home and family. More than two dozen classic hits— “I Walk The Line,” “A Boy Named Sue,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” and the title tune — performed by a multi-talented cast, paints a musical portrait of The Man in Black that promises to be a crowd-pleasing salute to a unique musical legend!
Shop fresh produce, preserves, and more from local farms. Come meet your local farmers and artisans and celebrate NC agriculture and craftsmanship at the market!
Stop 2 | Dinner at Smoke & Barrel
At this unique neighborhood pub, folks crave the slow-cooked smoked pork, savor the beef brisket, and take delight in live music and drinks.
Stop 3 | Temple Theatre
Catch an amazing show like Ring of Fire at Temple Theatre. The songbook of Johnny Cash comes to life in this musical about love and faith, struggle and success, and the healing power of home and family. More than two dozen classic hits— “I Walk The Line,” “A Boy Named Sue,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” and the title tune — performed by a multi-talented cast, paints a musical portrait of The Man in Black that promises to be a crowd-pleasing salute to a unique musical legend!

Day Three
Stop 1 | Lunch at Buttermilk Biscuit Bar
Established chef Gregg Ham delivers a virtual kitchen concept, offering a variety of scratch-made biscuits, sides, coffee, mimosas and more. Or try Fairview Dairy Bar for a diner experience.
Stop 2 | Hike, Bike, or Paddle
Spend the afternoon enjoying the great outdoors! Paddle along the Deep River, hike scenic nature trails, or unwind in one of Sanford's many parks. Whether you're seeking adventure or a peaceful escape, there are endless places to explore.
Established chef Gregg Ham delivers a virtual kitchen concept, offering a variety of scratch-made biscuits, sides, coffee, mimosas and more. Or try Fairview Dairy Bar for a diner experience.
Stop 2 | Hike, Bike, or Paddle
Spend the afternoon enjoying the great outdoors! Paddle along the Deep River, hike scenic nature trails, or unwind in one of Sanford's many parks. Whether you're seeking adventure or a peaceful escape, there are endless places to explore.
