WILMINGTON -- More than 100,000 people are expected to pour into the port city over the next few days.

City crews are busy finding alternate routes to and around concerts, the parade, and other events as the 71st North Carolina Azalea Festival kicks off.

Some parking at CFCC is already closed as the student parking lot next to the Schwartz Center is being transformed into a performance venue. Officials said Saturday, 3rd Street will close to make way for the parade that begins at 9:30 a.m.

When it comes to parking, several lots, decks, and on-street spaces will be open. Also this year, Wave Transit will offer shuttles from Independence Mall to downtown. And new trolley routes will include the Brooklyn Arts, Castle Street, and the South Front Street districts.

"It's going to be running every 20 minutes on the peak days, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Thursday night for the first concert,” said Malissa Talbert, City of Wilmington.

Shuttle service to the parade begins Saturday morning at 7 a.m.