Charleston 'abloom': Annual Dogwood-Azalea Festival kicks off Thursday

CHARLESTON, Mo. -- The dogwoods and azaleas are blooming in Charleston, and residents are ready to welcome visitors to their town's 48th annual festival.

"The festival is our biggest time of the year," said Sophie Dugan, president of the Mississippi County Historical Society in Charleston. "Charleston is just abloom. It's amazing to see a small town, which on a normal day doesn't have a whole lot of activity, but this one time of the year, we can come together and show off our town to our visitors."

Set for Thursday through Sunday in Charleston, this year's theme is "Home Grown and Small Town Proud."

Organizers of the 48th annual Dogwood-Azalea Festival in Charleston are predicting the dogwoods and azaleas will be at their peak for visitors Thursday through Sunday. Above is one of the many gardens which can be viewed during the events. Jill Bock, Staff

Organizers of the 48th annual Dogwood-Azalea Festival in Charleston are predicting the dogwoods and azaleas will be at their peak for visitors Thursday through Sunday. Above is one of the many gardens which can be viewed during the events. Jill Bock, Staff

"Right now we're gearing up for the big days, which start Thursday, and several tour buses are booked, and it's going to be an absolutely gorgeous weekend," said Karen Teeters, executive director of the Charleston Chamber of Commerce and Tourism.

For newcomers to the festival, Teeters recommended stopping at any number of local businesses in Charleston and getting a visitor's guide so they know what is planned.

"From there, sit down with the guide and decide what you want to do," Teeters advised. "One day is not enough to do the festival."

Visitors are invited to tour the six-mile dogwood-azalea trail to see flowers and plants at their peak.

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