Dix Park’s sunflowers are in bloom. What to know about Raleigh’s annual tradition
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- Dix Park's sunflower celebration runs 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on July 11.
- The sunflower field is open daily from dawn to dusk with no admission fee or reservations.
- Here are details about parking, accessibility and tips for enjoying the Raleigh tradition.
Bursting with color, buzzing with bees and bringing in tens of thousands of visitors, the sunflowers at Dorothea Dix Park are reaching peak bloom.
The field of sunflowers has become a summer ritual in Raleigh since they were first planted in 2018, attracting families, proposing couples and photographers alike.
“It was kind of one of the first iconic, community-building things that happened at Dix Park after the park was purchased by the city,” said Lauren Danforth, communications manager for Dix Park. “It’s just been sort of a tradition that we really look forward to.”
The park is celebrating the occasion Saturday, with a day full of events for all ages, including a DJ, solar viewing with the Raleigh astronomy club and food trucks.
Here’s everything you need to know.
When can I see the Raleigh sunflowers?
The sunflower field is open to the public seven days a week from dawn until dusk.
Do I need to pay to see the sunflowers?
There is no fee to visit Dix Park or enter the sunflower field, and no reservations are required.
What can visitors expect this year at the Sunflower Celebration?
Saturday’s celebration is 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Expect a lively atmosphere with potentially 20,000 visitors. Special activities include a morning storytime from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with a DJ from 12 noon to 5 p.m. Beer and wine are available for purchase through House of Many Porches Market from 5 to 8 p.m.
Check the Dix Park website for the full list of food trucks.
What if there is bad weather?
If there is inclement weather, the park will cancel the celebration. Announcements will be made on Dix Park’s social media and website.
Where should I park?
Sunflower Field is in the central area of the park at 75 Hunt Drive. Free parking is available in the gravel lot at that address on weekdays (6 a.m. to 5 p.m.), while weekend and evening visitors can park in any lot.
ADA parking is available near the Magnolia Room at 1700 Umstead Drive and all paved lots. Use the park map for assistance.
What if I’m walking or biking?
Oakes and Spokes and Raleigh Community Kickstand are offering free bike valet and storage and valet at their shipping container in Lot A from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. They will also offer free stickers and give a free safety check.
Visitors can walk or bike via the Rocky Branch Greenway or Centennial Bikeway Connector.
What should I know about seeing the sunflowers?
Prepare for summer heat. Danforth provided the following recommendations:
- Wear sunscreen.
- Bring a hat or umbrella for shade.
- Carry plenty of water.
- Wear closed-toe shoes (pathways may be uneven or muddy)
- (Optional) Bring a picnic and enjoy shaded tables and hammocks.
- (Optional) Bring your camera for photos
Are there any rules or restrictions?
Yes. The following is asked of visitors:
- Stay on marked paths to avoid trampling flowers.
- Don’t pick or cut the sunflowers.
- Only bring leashed, well-behaved pets, and pick up after them.
- Avoid eating sunflower seeds, as the field sits atop an old landfill.
- Keep pets leashed and refrain from bringing outside alcohol, smoking, vaping, or weapons.
- Leave drones and large tents at home.
- Dispose of litter properly and respect the space for everyone’s enjoyment.
What about accessibility and bathroom facilities?
Accessible pathways are available from ADA parking near the Magnolia Room (1700 Umstead Drive) into the picnic and sunflower areas, though some ground is uneven and not fully ADA accessible.
Indoor restrooms are open daily at The Stone Houses and Gipson Play Plaza, with temporary ADA restrooms at the Magnolia Room and near Parking Lot A. Event organizers are working to improve accessibility, and additional support is available by contacting the park.
How long will the sunflowers be in bloom?
The sunflowers should still be blooming through July 17. If you miss them entirely, Daforth reports that after the sunflowers fade, the field becomes a hotspot for birdwatching, especially goldfinches that eat the leftover seeds.
Where can I find more information?
Visit dixpark.org/sunflowers for park maps, event schedules, accessibility details, and the latest updates on weather or programming changes.
