Go to whirligigfestivalnc.org/ for Current Info about
the Wilson Whirligig Festival

 

Content below is from the site's 2009 archived pages.

If you have inadvertently ended up here while searching for information about the Wilson Whirligig Festival, go to the festival's current website at: https://whirligigfestivalnc.org/

whirl·i·gig noun
.a toy that spins around, for example, a top or a pinwheel.
2. a thing regarded as hectic or constantly changing.
"the whirligig of time"

The Wilson Whirligig Festival is an annual arts and crafts festival held each November in Wilson, NC. In 2008, approximately 20,000 people visited the"main"outdoor event.

Whirligigs are whimsical, wind-driven works of art that dot the landscape around downtown Wilson. If you’re an artist or food vendor, we encourage you to be a part of our festival the first weekend of November.

 

Mission: People and Art in Motion

  • whimsical
  • people & art in motion
  • citizen driven
  • visitor supported
  • celebrating difference
  • fulfilling Wilson 20|20
  • economic opportunity for all

Like the whimsical outsider art, the Whirligig Festival is a community celebration of people and art in motion held the first weekend in November. 

With the goal of entertaining, attracting visitors, celebrating differences, providing a positive economic impact, promoting the sharing of our rich history, and fostering civic pride, the Whirligig Festival is a community celebration.

 

 

Alvin Nester's detour: Last November, I embarked on a weekend golf trip, with my trusty Tour Edge clubs in tow, expecting nothing more than a quiet game on a serene course. Little did I know, my GPS mishap would lead me to one of the most delightful surprises I've encountered – the Wilson Whirligig Festival in North Carolina.

As a passionate golfer, I always carry my clubs in the trunk of my car in case I stumble into a great new course. Being both a female and a southpaw, I'm familiar with the inadvertent prejudices thrown my way whenever I enter the male dominated realm of my favorite sport. So having my womens left handed clubs always on hand avoids the need for explanations and excuses. But on this day, my clubs stayed in the trunk as I found myself mesmerized by the whimsical world of whirligigs.

The festival, set in the heart of historic downtown Wilson, was a whirlwind of colors, sounds, and joyful energy. I was immediately drawn to the towering whirligigs, spinning playfully in the wind. These fantastic creations, a blend of folk art and engineering marvels, are the legacy of local artist Vollis Simpson. Each whirligig, crafted from repurposed materials like road signs and bicycle parts, was a testament to human creativity and ingenuity.

The festival atmosphere was electric, with live music setting a lively backdrop. Bands played on multiple stages, offering everything from jazz to country. The food vendors were a treat, offering a taste of local and international cuisines. I indulged in some of the best homemade treats and savored local delicacies, momentarily forgetting my initial plans for a golfing weekend.

Perhaps what struck me most was the sense of community spirit. The festival wasn't just an art exhibition; it was a celebration of local heritage and unity. Families, art enthusiasts, and visitors like myself mingled, sharing stories and laughs. The kid-friendly activities, particularly the whirligig-inspired arts and crafts, added a delightful touch, making it an event for all ages.

While I had intended to spend my weekend navigating fairways and greens, the Wilson Whirligig Festival offered a different kind of green – a vibrant, communal space where art and joy intersected. As much as I cherish my time on the golf course with my Tour Edge clubs, this accidental detour was a reminder of the unexpected joys life can offer.

I left the festival with a heart full of joy and a new appreciation for folk art. The Wilson Whirligig Festival is more than just an event; it's a vibrant celebration of creativity, community, and the unexpected surprises that enrich our lives. It's a must-visit, whether you're an art aficionado, a family looking for a fun weekend, or a golfer who took a wrong turn in search of a golf course. This delightful discovery will be a cherished memory, and I look forward to returning next year – maybe even with my golf clubs in hand for a round before or after the festival!

 

 

More Background on The Wilson Whirligig Festival: A Celebration of Art and Community

The Wilson Whirligig Festival, held annually during the first weekend of November in Wilson, North Carolina, is a unique and vibrant celebration of folk art and community spirit. It is a family-friendly event that showcases the artistic and cultural heritage of the region, with a special focus on the whimsical whirligigs created by the renowned local artist Vollis Simpson.

Vollis Simpson's whirligigs, recognized as North Carolina's official folk art, are the centerpiece of the festival. These whirligigs, some towering as high as 50 feet, are made from an assortment of materials including highway and road signs, HVAC fans, bicycles, and ceiling fans. Simpson began creating these kinetic sculptures during World War II and continued refining his art throughout his life. His work gained widespread recognition, including a prominent display at the North Carolina Museum of Art in Raleigh.

The festival transforms downtown Wilson into a bustling hub of activity, with several stages hosting live entertainment, including music and dance performances. It features a variety of activities catering to all ages, such as arts and crafts booths, a free kids zone, food vendors offering a range of culinary delights, and non-profit organization booths. The festival's commitment to showcasing re-purposed, recycled, and reused materials in artworks pays homage to Simpson's artistic philosophy.

The Wilson Whirligig Festival is not just an art festival; it's a celebration of community and heritage. It brings together around 30,000 attendees each year, including both locals and visitors. The festival's mission extends beyond entertainment to include fostering civic pride, celebrating diversity, and having a positive economic impact on the region. It is a citizen-driven and visitor-supported event, aligning with the broader goals of the Wilson 20|20 vision for economic and community development.

The festival was conceived in 2004 as a symbol of unity for the city of Wilson. The choice to center it around Vollis Simpson's whirligigs was a nod to a local hero whose work had achieved global recognition. Since its inception, the festival has grown significantly, attracting thousands of visitors annually and evolving into one of the largest family-friendly festivals in the state.

Even after Vollis Simpson's passing in 2013, his legacy continues to be a central theme of the festival. The event not only celebrates his artistic contributions but also encourages new generations to engage with and appreciate the unique form of folk art he popularized.

The Wilson Whirligig Festival is a testament to the power of community, art, and heritage. It is a vibrant, inclusive celebration that honors the artistic legacy of Vollis Simpson while fostering a sense of unity and pride within the community.

For more detailed information about the festival, you can visit the official festival websites and news articles that cover its history and impact:

- North Carolina Whirligig Festival Official Page (www.whirligigfestivalnc.org)

- WRAL’s coverage on the festival’s history (www.wral.com)

- NC Festivals’ page on the Whirligig Festival (www.ncfestivals.com)

- FestivalNet’s information on the festival (festivalnet.com)

- Wilson Whirligig Festival’s own website (www.wilsonwhirligigfestival.com)

- Eventeny’s details on festival activities (eventeny.com)

 

2009 Whirligig Festival – November 7 & 8

The event lasts for two fun-filled exciting days during the first weekend in November each year. Approximately 20,000 people attend the festival each year. The “main street” of Wilson is closed, as well as many of the surrounding side streets, and filled with stages, vendors, artisan booths, non-profit tables, kids games and more! Many of the downtown organizations, such as the Art Council and Imagination Station Science Museum sponsor additional events during the weekend. There is fun, shopping and food for the entire family.

Whirligigs are whimsical, wind driven works of art that dot the landscape around downtown Wilson and across the country.

2009 Schedule

Saturday – November 7

  • 10:00 am – 10:15 am – Opening Ceremony
  • 10:15 am – 11:00 am – Karate School Demonstration
  • 10:30 am – 12:30 pm – Easy Street, Classic Rock band
  • 10:30 am – 12:30 pm – Brandi Love, Country, Pop and Gospel
  • 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm – Band tbd
  • 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm – Winston Band, Jazz and R&B
  • 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm – Seaside Band, Beach music
  • 2:00 pm – 1:30 pm – The Tams, R& B band
  • 3:30 pm – 5:00 pm – Without Further Ado band, Country
  • 3:30 pm – 5:00 pm – Give ‘N Take, Beach band

Sunday – November 8

  • 1:30 pm – 2:00 pm – Holiday Band
  • 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm – Holiday Band
  • 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm – Holiday Band

+++

2009 Executive Officers:

The Board of Directors elects Executive officers and hires a Coordinator and Fundraiser on an annual basis for the operation of the festival.

Festival Coordinator - Judi Clayton   

Festival Fundraiser -

President – Terri Williams

Vice President – Theresa Mathis

Secretary – Lt. Kendra Howell

Historian – Sheryletta Lacewell 

Festival Chairs and Board of Directors

Arts & Crafts - Susann Hood

Food - Terri Williams

Non-Profits - Judi Clayton

Entertainment Co-Chairs - Carol Alexander & Bowie Martin

Kidz Korner Co-Chairs - Jonathan Brooks & Barry Page

Sponsor Hospitality and Pre-View Party - Bruce Beasley

Volunteer - Diane Kuster

Site Layout - Lt. Kendra Howell

Decorations - Sheryletta Lacewell

Cultural Event and Chefs Area - Elisa Suarez

Elk's Lodge BBQ Cook Off - Frank Johnson

Bike Tour - Cynthia Whaylen

Board Member - Morgan Dickerman

Board Member - Bob Rosenberger

Board Member - Tammi Barnes

Board Member - Officer Angie Harrold

North Carolina Festival Association’s Volunteer of the Year Award

The Wilson Whirligig Festival organizers offer a warm "THANK YOU" to CleanItSupply.com for their generous donations of custodial products. We take pride in leaving the sites we use as clean or cleaner than we found them. The recylable bins, large trash bags, paper towels, toilet paper are hidden heros for any event involving large crowds. These cleaning supplies are used by everyone - participants, food vendors, entertainers, tourists. So thank you CleanItSupply.com for making a huge difference - we appreciate the clean bathrooms & dining areas!

The Wilson Whirligig Festival is proud to announce that Theresa Mathis is the recipient of the North Carolina Festival Association’s Volunteer of the year award. Theresa was nominated for the NC Excellence Award by the Wilson Whirligig Festival Committee for her dedication to our community, her can-do attitude and her tireless efforts to provide festival attendees and vendors with a great festival experience.  Congratulations Theresa Mathis!

 

 

More Background on WilsonWhirligigFestival.com

The North Carolina Whirligig Festival stands as one of eastern North Carolina’s most beloved and distinctive annual events, celebrating the whimsical, wind-driven sculptures known as whirligigs. The festival’s official website, currently found at whirligigfestivalnc.org, serves as the primary digital gateway for festival news, schedules, vendor information, and visitor resources.

Ownership and Management

The festival is organized by a non-profit entity, managed by a board of directors and a robust team of community volunteers. This structure ensures that the event remains rooted in local values and responsive to the needs of both residents and visitors. The board is responsible for all major decisions, while day-to-day operations are handled by a festival coordinator and various committee chairs. The website is maintained by the festival’s organizing committee, often with technical and creative support from local agencies.

Popularity and Attendance

The North Carolina Whirligig Festival has grown steadily since its inception, now attracting tens of thousands of attendees each year. While precise figures fluctuate, regional news outlets and community reports indicate that the festival draws between 30,000 and 55,000 visitors over its two-day run, making it the largest annual gathering in Wilson and a significant regional attraction. The festival’s popularity is bolstered by its unique art focus, family-friendly environment, and the iconic status of Vollis Simpson’s whirligigs.

Location and Proximity

The festival takes place in the heart of historic downtown Wilson, North Carolina. The event spans several city blocks, with the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park as its centerpiece. This park features dozens of Simpson’s original, large-scale whirligigs, which have become symbols of both the city and the festival. Wilson’s central location in eastern North Carolina, near major highways such as Interstate 95, makes the festival easily accessible to visitors from across the state and beyond.

Awards and Recognition

The festival has received numerous accolades for its community impact and volunteer efforts. Notably, organizers and volunteers have been recognized by the North Carolina Festival Association, including awards such as Volunteer of the Year. These honors highlight the festival’s commitment to excellence and its reliance on dedicated community members.

Menus and Culinary Offerings

Food is a central part of the festival experience. Vendors from across the region offer a wide variety of culinary delights, ranging from classic Southern fare to international cuisine. Festival-goers can enjoy barbecue, fried treats, homemade desserts, and specialty drinks. The emphasis is on local flavors and family-friendly options, ensuring there is something for every palate.

Goals and Mission

The festival’s mission is to celebrate art, community, and local heritage. Key goals include:

  • Entertaining and attracting visitors: The festival aims to provide a memorable experience for all attendees.

  • Celebrating differences: It fosters inclusivity and diversity.

  • Providing economic opportunity: The event supports local businesses and artisans.

  • Promoting civic pride and history: It highlights Wilson’s unique cultural legacy.

  • Fostering community spirit: The festival encourages volunteerism and local engagement.

Reviews and Community Feedback

Attendees consistently praise the festival for its vibrant atmosphere, creative energy, and welcoming environment. Reviews highlight the impressive scale of the whirligigs, the variety of live entertainment, and the abundance of family-friendly activities. Visitors often note the sense of community and the opportunity to interact with local artists and vendors.

History and Origins

The festival was conceived in the early 2000s as a way to honor the legacy of Vollis Simpson, a local artist whose large, kinetic sculptures had gained national acclaim. Simpson’s whirligigs, crafted from repurposed materials, became the festival’s centerpiece. The event has grown from a modest local gathering to a major regional attraction, reflecting the enduring appeal of Simpson’s art and the community’s commitment to celebrating its heritage.

Press and Media Coverage

The North Carolina Whirligig Festival has garnered significant media attention. Regional news outlets, such as WRAL and local newspapers, regularly cover the event, highlighting its artistic significance and community impact. The festival has also been featured in travel guides and arts publications, further raising its profile.

Audience and Demographics

The festival attracts a diverse audience, including families, art enthusiasts, and tourists. Its family-friendly programming ensures that there are activities for all ages, from children’s craft areas to live music and dance performances. The event also draws a significant number of out-of-town visitors, contributing to its reputation as a regional destination.

Known For

The festival is best known for its celebration of folk art, particularly the whirligigs of Vollis Simpson. These towering, wind-driven sculptures are unique to Wilson and have become iconic symbols of the city. The festival is also recognized for its lively atmosphere, live entertainment, and community spirit.

Cultural and Social Significance

The North Carolina Whirligig Festival holds deep cultural and social significance for Wilson and the surrounding region. It serves as a celebration of local heritage, artistic innovation, and community resilience. The festival’s emphasis on repurposed materials and outsider art reflects broader themes of sustainability and creativity. It also fosters a sense of unity and pride among residents, while welcoming visitors to experience the city’s unique character.

Details and Insights

The festival offers a wide range of activities, including:

  • Live music and dance performances: Multiple stages feature local and regional acts.

  • Arts and crafts booths: Artists and crafters showcase their work, with many pieces inspired by the whirligig theme.

  • Children’s activities: A dedicated kids’ zone provides hands-on art projects and games.

  • Food and drink vendors: A diverse selection of culinary options is available.

  • Non-profit and community organization booths: Local groups share information and engage with attendees.

The festival’s layout typically involves the closure of several downtown streets, creating a pedestrian-friendly environment. Volunteers play a crucial role in setting up, managing, and cleaning up the event.

Specifics and Examples

  • Date and Duration: The festival is held annually during the first weekend of November, spanning two days.

  • Location: Downtown Wilson, with the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park as a focal point.

  • Attendance: Estimated 30,000–55,000 visitors per year.

  • Artistic Focus: Whirligigs and other forms of folk art, with an emphasis on repurposed materials.

  • Entertainment: Multiple stages with live music, dance, and demonstrations.

  • Community Involvement: Strong volunteer presence, with awards recognizing outstanding contributions.

 

The North Carolina Whirligig Festival is a dynamic celebration of art, community, and heritage. Its official website serves as a vital resource for visitors, offering information on schedules, activities, and logistics. The festival’s growth and popularity reflect its unique blend of whimsical art, lively entertainment, and community spirit. By honoring the legacy of Vollis Simpson and embracing the creativity of the region, the festival has become a cherished tradition and a symbol of Wilson’s vibrant culture.

 

 

WilsonWhirligigFestival.com