Seahawk.org posted an interesting article, “The Azalea Belles: Southern charm or troublesome tradition?” about the long traditions and some of the racial overtones that some but not all might notice.
“The Azalea Festival and the Cape Fear Garden Club have held a tradition since 1969 where young girls don Antebellum era attire and assume the roles of the Azalea Belles.
The Belles, who are meant to represent the festival season and flowers, act as hostesses for the Garden Tour and they “enhance the beauty of several activities,” according to the Cape Fear Garden Club’s website.”
Read the article for a different perspective than you usually see.