Wilmington NC Holiday Events

Celebrate the holiday season in Wilmington, North Carolina with festive events and activities including the Island of Lights Festival, Enchanted Airlie and the Wilmington New Year Celebration!

Wilmington holiday events include Thanksgiving day races, Christmas festivities and New Year's Eve Celebrations! Race against family and friends in the Wrightsville Beach Turkey Trot, get in the holiday spirit at the Island of Lights festivities and ring in the New Year aboard a cruise or at the beach! We look forward to celebrating the holidays with you in Wilmington, North Carolina!

Visiting from out of town? The Holiday Inn is offering excellent rates this holiday season. Enjoy comfortable guest rooms, free parking, free WiFi and an on site restaurant and lounge at this premier Wilmington hotel. Make your holiday reservations today!

2015 Wilmington NC Holiday Events:

A Trailer Park Christmas
November 20 - December 20, 2015
Durham NC's hit holiday romp returns to TheatreNOW! Welcome to Whispering Pines Trailer Park's annual open latch Christmas Party. Lorraine is serving her special "punch" so let's hope MeeMaw's on her best behavior and that hurricane coming doesn't detroy the trailer. Meet all of the absurd trailer park neighbors--friend and foe--while dining on Chef Denise's comfort food inspired 3-course dinner. The holidays don't get any better than this! Click here for additional information and show times.

Bread & Lights Gingerbread & Lantern Festival at the CAM
November 21 - December 6, 2015
Closed Thanksgiving
The Bread & Lights Festival presents amazing gingerbread creations and originally designed lanterns! Our gingerbread creations from last year were a big hit. The Art of Gingerbread returns with categories including kids, teens and professionals! Art of Illumination draws inspiration from traditional lantern festivals, marking the transitional moment of season’s change and year’s end, reflecting on the past while garnering energy for the future. With the lanterns illuminating both the darkness of longer nights and beginnings of the future ahead, the event will give rise to a shared experience of reflection and anticipation. Click here for additional information about this Wilmington festival.

Wrightsville Beach Turkey Trot
November 26, 2015 at 8:30AM
Burn off those pre-Thanksgiving calories with the Wrightsville Beach Turkey Trot presented by The Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity. This race is fun for the whole family with a 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run. You can run or walk either race distance. The course is along The Loop, which is flat and fast taking you through Wrightsville Beach. Please plan to be at the start line 10 minutes prior to the start of the race wearing your race number on the front of your shirt. Click here for additional information.

The Lighting at the Lake Celebration
November 27, 2015
The Lighting at the Lake Ceremony officially begins the month long Island of Lights Festival in Carolina & Kure Beaches. The Lake is located at the intersection of Atlanta Ave and Lake Park Blvd in Carolina Beach, NC. There is parking in the lot at the lake, a lot across the street from the lake and on Lake Park Blvd where indicated. The event is always the night after Thanksgiving and the opening ceremony is at 7 PM. The brief opening ceremony, prior to the actual lighting, will feature the President of the Island of Lights Committee, Pleasure Island elected officials, and musical entertainment. Local Cub Scouts provide the Honor Guard and display the flag for the singing of the National Anthem. Also featuring a new tree for the 2015 Holiday Season. Click here for additional information.

Christmas by the Sea
November 27 - Christmas
The annual "Christmas by the Sea" will take place from November 27th until Christmas. The Boardwalk area will be decorated and lit up each and every night during the holiday season starting with the lighting ceremony on November 27th at approximately 7:30PM, proceeding the Island of Lights 'Lighting at the Lake Ceremony'. On November 27, 28 and December 5, 12, and 19 the following activities will be active from 6:30 until 8:30PM: Santa at the Welcome Center, Fire Pit with story telling, Hot chocolate at the Welcome Center, Live Nativity Scene, Caroling, Holiday themed movies at the Gazebo, Puppet show, Arts & Crafts Area and ornament making activities for kids. Christmas by the Sea is a winter event series at the Carolina Beach Boardwalk sponsored by the Carolina Beach Downtown Initiative and the Town of Carolina Beach. Click here for additional information.

Enchanted Airlie
November 27 & 28, 2015
December 4-6, 10-13 & 16-22, 2015
A Wilmington tradition since 2005, guests from around the world have visited Airlie Gardens from Thanksgiving to Christmas to take in the sparkling sights and festive sounds of the season. Guests will experience a 0.5m stroll through the Gardens, on a self-guided walking tour while feasting their eyes on a spectacular array of lights and holiday displays. Also in attendance, Santa Claus himself, and a few local food and beverage vendors with coffee, hot chocolate, popcorn, cookies and more! Click here for additional information.

Holiday Train Expo 2015
November 27 - December 27, 2015
Friday 6PM - 9PM
Saturday and Sunday 1PM - 6PM
Join us for one of Wilmington's favorite holiday events, our annual Holiday Train Expo. This year's Expo is better than ever, with returning treasures and exciting new exhibits including Wilmington's largest operating HO scale model railroad, an interactive O scale featuring many operating accessories and the spectacular Polar Express layout, and the magnificent G scale Christmas village featuring more trains and more to see than ever! Plus, there will be new photo opportunities with Santa and the Conductor aboard the Polar Express. Click here for additional information.

Swing'n The Holidays Feat. The Jive Aces with Special Guests The Satin Dollz
December 1, 2015 at 4PM & 7:30PM
The United Kingdom’s number one jive and swing band bring a holiday spectacular to the Mainstage. Known for their high energy Jump Jive music, the Jive Aces performed for Her Majesty the Queen as part of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations and for the London Olympics. They combine a mixture of fresh arrangements of swing, Jive, and R&B classics with a selection of superb swinging originals. Click here to purchase tickets.

Big Dawg Productions presents Christmas Belles
December 3-6, 10-13 & 17-20, 2015
It's Christmas time in the small town of Frayo, TX and the Futrelle sisters are not exactly in a festive mood. A cranky Frankie is weeks overdue with the second set of twins. Twink is in jail for inadvertently burning down half the town, and hot flash suffering Honey Raye is desperately trying to keep the Tabernacle of the Lamb's Christmas Program from spiraling into chaos. When Frankie lets slip a family secret that has been carefully guarded for decades, all hope for a successful Christmas Program seems lost, even with an Elvis impersonator. Click here for additional information.

The Holiday Flea at BAC
December 4-6, 2015
The Brooklyn Arts Center is excited to announce “The Holiday Flea at BAC”! Renowned as the “ultimate vintage flea” and attended by more than 1,500 shoppers and dozens of vintage vendors from around the region, The Holiday Flea is a three-day event that will again be the go-to shopping experience of the season—with a wide array of vintage, retro, antique, and upcycled treasures—and tons of fun, with Wilmington’s finest food trucks feeding the crowds, a coffee shop in the courtyard, and the BAC cash bar serving liquid refreshments. Admission to the flea is $5 at the door—good for all three days and includes a raffle ticket (kids 12 and under are free). Parking in the North Fourth neighborhood is free. Click here for additional information.

2015 Christmas Parade
December 4, 2015
Area residents young and old look forward to the annual Christmas Parade. The Christmas Parade is always the second Friday after Thanksgiving and begins at 7:30 PM. The parade proceeds from Atlanta Ave down Lake Park Blvd to the Federal Point Plaza in Carolina Beach. Floats, bands and Santa Clause will be there to add to the festivities of the season and provide a night of entertainment for families. Click here for additional information

Ballet for Young Audiences: The Nutcracker
December 4, 2015 at 4PM & 7PM
December 5, 2015 at 10AM
This sixty-minute narrated version of the classic Christmas tale tells the story of a young girl named Clara. With the help of her godfather, a mysterious clockmaker, she is transported to a magical realm where she journeys through the land of sweets, witnesses a daring battle, and meets the Sugar Plum Fairy. A perfect introduction to ballet for the entire family. Click here for additional information.

2015 Christmas Flotilla
December 5, 2015
Fishing boats and pleasure craft electrically decorated with thousands of lights present a spectacular display on the Intracoastal Waterway. They cruise form Snows Cut to the Carolina Beach Boat Basin and back. The boats compete for prizes and add to the wonderful holiday spirit. The flotilla always takes place on the second Saturday after Thanksgiving and begins at 6 PM. A panel of judges will be on hand to choose the winners. Bring the family and enjoy the evening at Carolina Beach. Click here for additional information.

A Verry Merry Showboat
December 5, 2015
Times: 10AM – Noon, 1 – 3PM
Free with Battleship admission
Enjoy a new holiday tradition! Kids can fly a flag with Santa (bring your own or buy a US or NC flag from the Battleship’s store). Santa and the Battleship’s Captain will sign your certificate of authenticity. Type your Christmas wish list on a vintage typewriter using authentic WWII USS NORTH CAROLINA radio message paper. Call the North Pole in the Battleship’s main radio room. See Santa’s journey being tracked in the Combat Information Center. Create Christmas cards for veterans in VA hospitals. And MORE! Bring your camera for some unique photo ops! A great way to start your holiday season! Click here for additional information.

A Carolina Nutcracker
December 5 - 6, 2015
A Carolina Nutcracker is the area’s only full-length ballet staging of the holiday favorite. It is set in Wilmington at the Bellamy Mansion exactly 150 years ago, and features historical characters from the period along with all the beloved traditions of the original ballet. Performances of A Carolina Nutcracker will feature a live professional orchestra and children’s chorus, in honor of the grand opening of the Humanities and Fine Arts Center and the Sesquicentennial of the end of the Civil War. A must-see for the whole family! Click here for additional information.

Old Wilmington by Candlelight Tour
December 5 - 6, 2015
The 2015 Old Wilmington by Candlelight Tour is a walking tour through historic Wilmington with visits to beautifully decorated homes, churches and historic sites. An enchanting and festive event to usher in the holiday season!  Saturday the tour runs from 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm and Sunday the tour will run 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm. Click here for additional information.

A Christmas Carol
December 10-11, 2015 at 7PM
December 12, 2015 at 2PM & 7PM
December 13, 2015 at 2PM
December 17- 18, 2015 at 7PM
December 19, 2015 at 2PM & 7PM
December 20, 2015 at 2PM
December 21 at 8PM
The Theatre Exchange’s adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol transports the timeless story of Christmas redemption from London to a depression era “Hooverville” on the outskirts of St. Louis. Actor, historian and THCPA Executive Director, Tony Rivenbark, will once again bring Ebenezer Scrooge to life in the intimate setting of the Stein Theatre at Thalian Hall. Co-presented with Theatre Exchange and THCPA Cube Theatre. Click here for additional information.

Wilmington Holly Jolly Holiday Stroll
December 11 - 12, 2015
This inaugural event will take place December 11 and 12, 2015 and will feature a wide range of holiday sights and activities.  The stroll is designed to showcase all that the Cape Fear Region offers.  Participants will be able to stroll throughout Downtown and visit shops in an “open house” setting with merchants providing refreshments and holiday gift ideas.  Street musicians and local choral groups will be strategically placed along the way to entertain visitors.  Over 30 businesses are expected to enter a window decorating contest for all to see and enjoy.  Activities will also take place along America’s Best Waterfront (according the USA Today).  Visitors can also delight in festive decorations that will adorn historic homes in Downtown.  Oh, did we mention Santa?  He will be there too! Click here for additional information.

The Tour of Homes
December 12, 2015
Take a self guided tour through some of Pleasure Island's (Carolina & Kure Beaches) most beautiful homes when they are decorated for the holidays. Enjoy southern hospitality at its best as the owners welcome you into the privacy of their homes for this special holiday treat. The Tour of Homes is always the third Saturday after Thanksgiving and occurs from 4 PM - 9 PM. Tickets will be available at businesses on Pleasure Island including touche' @ 201 N. Lake Park Blvd. Click here for additional information.

Jingle Bell Run 5K
December 12, 2015
The Wrightsville Beach Museum of History invites you to participate in the museum’s seventh annual Jingle Bell 5K Run. As this will be a celebratory, holiday event, race participants are encouraged to dress in holiday apparel (i.e. Santa costumes, antlers, snow men etc.). We have a family registration rate and a competition for decorated strollers. Prizes for Best Overall Holiday Costume, Best Group Holiday Costume, Best Family Holiday Costume, and Best Pet Costume. Click here for additional information.

A Christmas Stroll Through The Past
December 12, 2015 from 4-7PM
The Bellamy Mansion Museum and the Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens invite you to stroll down Market Street through the past.  Celebrate the holidays with a luminary walk, period decorations, music, costumed interpreters, petting zoo, refreshments and more! The St. James Church nave will also be open for visitors during the Stroll, with architectural historian Edward F. Turberg available for questions. Tickets available online and at the Burgwin-Wright House and Bellamy Mansion Museum beginning November 1st. Click here for additional information.

Holiday Pops Concert
December 12, 2015 at 7:30PM
The North Carolina Symphony’s Holiday Pops is a musical tradition that will fill your heart with cheer. This all-new concert features selections from The Polar Express and Frozen, plus all your holiday favorites and our popular sing-a-long. “Yule” definitely be in a holly, jolly mood when you leave this concert! Click here for additional information and tickets

New Year's Eve Cruise
December 31, 2015 from 8PM - 1:30AM
Ring in the New Year with Cape Fear Riverboats aboard Henrietta III for a New Year's Eve Cruise. Boarding begins at 8PM and the boat will cruise from 9:30PM to shortly after midnight. The party will continue until 1:30AM. Tickets include the cruise, a delicious buffet of heavy hors d'oeuvres, entertainment, party favors and a champagne toast at midnight. Tax and gratuity included. Click here for additional information.

2015 New Year Celebration
December 31, 2015
The New Year's Celebration is always held on New Year's Eve and begins at 9 PM. The location rotates between Carolina & Kure Beaches. Don't miss the giant beach ball being dropped at midnight followed by a spectacular fireworks demonstration. This free family-friendly event will feature a DJ and dancing with refreshments and party favors available for purchase. In an Island of Lights tradition there will be a raffle, with the winner taking home the original artwork for the Island of Lights 2015 official Christmas card and ornament. Click here for additional information.

New Year’s Eve Gala Featuring the Broadway show Billy Elliot
December 31, 2015 at 7PM
The best New Year’s Eve Party in town! The evening includes dinner, drinks, dessert, and a sensational performance of the Broadway Musical, Billy Elliot, produced by City Stage, one of Wilmington’s most respected community theatre ensembles. After the show, ring in 2016 with a live DJ, dancing, and champagne toast. Click here to purchase tickets for this Wilmington New Year's Eve event.

Happy Holidays!
Wilmington NC Events

Wilmington NC 2014 Holiday Events

Celebrate the holidays in Wilmington NC at the North Carolina Holiday Flotilla,  Island of Lights festivities, Enchanted Airlie and more!

Wilmington NC holiday events feature twinkling lights, holiday tunes, Christmas shows, holiday shopping, visits with Santa and more! Mark your calendar today so that you can celebrate the holiday season in Wilmington, North Carolina with family and friends.

Visiting from out of town? Contact our local hotel partners for excellent holiday rates!

2014 Wilmington NC Holiday Events:

A Trailer Park Christmas
Now - December 21, 2014
From Durham writers Rachel Klem and Jeffrey Moore comes the wildest, most absurd Christmas show ever! Journey to the Whispering Pines Trailer Park where Meemaw Hussey and her family gather to celebrate the holiday with some spiked Sunny D and tasty delights from Meemaw's kitchen. Lorraine and Dale, Meemaw's daughter and son-in-low, try and keep their kids, Dale, Jr. and Jolene, on the straight-and-narrow, but you know young'uns these days. Plus, there's a whole mess of neighbors like Ratsnake, Eddie Mac Taylor, Fancy Nancy and them that'll have you in stitches. TheatreNOW presents this rowdy Christmas show that features live music, audience interaction and a whole mess of hilarity all served with a "city-fied" meal! Call 910-399-3669 for more information.

Festival of Trees at the Cameron Art Museum
Now - December 7, 2014 
The Cape Fear Festival of Trees returns as one of the most heart-warming holiday traditions in Wilmington. During the two-week festival, you are invited to wander through a winter wonderland of holiday elegance. Glittering trees decorated by local businesses, various organizations and individual artists transform the museum space into an enchanted forest. In addition to the dazzling array of trees, enjoy performances by over 30 local musical groups and artists. Treat your ears to the wonderful sounds of harps, handbell choirs, ukulele choirs, a capella singing and more. Included in your festival admission. Click here for additional information.

The Lighting at the Lake Celebration
November 28, 2014
The light up ceremony officially begins the month long Island of Lights Festival in Carolina and Kure Beaches in NC. The Lake is located at the intersection of Atlanta Avenue and Lake Park Boulevard in Carolina Beach, NC. There is parking in a lot at the Lake, at a lot across from the Lake, and on Lake Park Blvd. where indicated. The event is always the night after Thanksgiving and the opening ceremony is at 7 PM. The brief opening ceremony, prior to the actual lighting, will feature the President of The Island of Lights Committee, Pleasure Island elected officials, and musical entertainment. Families can walk one mile around the lake to view the beautiful lighted displays. Santa will visit the celebration and free refreshments will be served prior to Light Up.

Wrightsville Beach Tree Lighting Ceremony
November 28, 2014 at 5:30PM
Come see Santa, Mrs. Claus, and Santa’s Elves at the annual Town of Wrightsville Beach Tree
Lighting Ceremony held at Wrightsville Beach Town Hall, 321 Causeway Drive. Enjoy Christ-
mas music, a musical performance by the Elf Patrol, hot chocolate, and the memory making
moment of your child’s visit with Santa. Click here for additional information.

North Carolina Holiday Flotilla
November 28 - 29, 2014
The 31st Flotilla weekend will be held on Friday and Saturday, November 28th and 29th. From our humble beginnings thirty years ago, the Flotilla has grown to become one of the top 20 events in the Southeast and a must see family weekend, attracting an estimated 50,000 people to Wrightsville Beach annually. Our weekend kicks off with the fabulous Launch Party held at the Blockade Runner on Friday November 28th, followed by the family friendly Festival in the Park on Saturday November 29th and of course, the spectacular lighted boat parade and increasingly impressive fireworks will be that evening. Call 910-256-2120 for more information.

Enchanted Airlie
November 28 - 29, 2014
December 5-6, 11-14, 18-22, 2014
A Wilmington tradition since 2005, guests from around the world have visited Airlie Gardens from Thanksgiving to Christmas to take in the sparkling sights and festive sounds of the season. Guests will experience a 0.5m stroll through the Gardens, on a self-guided tour while feasting their eyes on a spectacular array of lights and holiday displays. Also in attendance, Santa Claus himself, and a few local food and beverage vendors with coffee, hot chocolate, popcorn, cookies and more! The year 2014 marks our 10th anniversary of Enchanted Airlie! NEW this year, in addition to more spectacular lights, The WOW Factor of Wilmington presents, a meet and greet with Winter Princesses! Call 910-798-7700  for more information.

A Christmas Story, The Musical
November 28-30, 2014 | December 5-7, 2014
This classic holiday tale centers on a mischievous, bespectacled boy, Ralphie, who dreams of getting a BB-gun for Christmas. In the weeks before the big holiday, Ralphie, his friends and his family get into all kinds of situations — including run-ins with a bully with “yellow eyes,” a tongue stuck to a flag pole, a bar of soap in the mouth, a garish leg lamp, a major award and a Chinese Christmas dinner. Call City Stage at 910-342-0272 for more information.​

Christmas Train and Light Spectacular
Fridays & Saturdays through December 27, 2014
Stroll through the Wilmington Railroad Musuem to see 20,000 twinkling lights, music and Christmas layouts with snow. Visit with Santa, enjoy festive decorations and get some hot cider & cookies afterward. General admission is only $5 per person. Kids under age 2 are free.

Holiday Concert with John Pizzarelli Quartet
December 2, 2014 at 8PM
Swing into the holidays with world-renowned jazz guitarist and crooner John Pizzarelli. Acclaimed by the Boston Globe for “reinvigorating the Great American Songbook and re-popularizing jazz" and hailed as “madly creative” by the Los Angeles Times, Pizzarelli's performances transport audiences to a different time. For the first time during his illustrious career, John Pizzarelli brings his acclaimed quartet to southeastern NC for an unforgettable evening of classic swing, bold jazz originals and charming holiday standards. Don't miss out on what is certain to be the most talked about show of the holiday season! Click here for additional information.

Jeremy Webb's A Christmas Carol at Thalian Hall
December 3, 2014 at 4PM & 7PM
Jeremy Webb returns to the Thalian Hall stage, this time not as the characters of Shakespeare, but in his one man portrayal of all the characters of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Take a break from the holiday rush and settle in for the dramatic, often hilarious, and sometimes spooky holiday classic. Every Christmas this is the story that warms our hearts and reminds us with laughter and tears that the true Christmas spirit comes from giving. Click here for additional information.

Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and then some) 
December 4-7, 11-14, & 18-21, 2014
Instead of performing Charles Dickens’ beloved holiday classic for the umpteenth time, three actors decide to perform every Christmas story ever told - plus Christmas traditions from around the world, seasonal icons form ancient times to topical pop-culture and every carol ever sung. A madcap romp through the holiday season. Call Big Dawg Productions at 910-367- 5237 for more information.

Island of Lights Christmas Parade
December 5, 2014
Area residents both young and old look forward to this annual Christmas Parade. The Christmas Parade will is always the second Friday after Thanksgiving and begins at 7:30 PM. The Parade proceeds from Atlanta Avenue down Lake Park Boulevard to the Federal Point Plaza in Carolina Beach. Floats, bands and Santa Clause will be there to add to the festivities of the Season and provide a night of entertainment for families. Click here for additional information.

Holiday Flea at BAC
December 5-7, 2014
Renowned as the “ultimate vintage flea” and attended by more than 1,500 shoppers and dozens of vintage vendors from around the region, The Holiday Flea is a three-day event that will again be the go-to shopping experience of the season—with a wide array of vintage, retro, antique, and upcycled treasures—and tons of fun, with Wilmington’s finest food trucks feeding the crowds, a coffee shop in the courtyard, and the BAC cash bar serving liquid refreshments. Call 910-538-2939 for more information.

A Verry Merry Showboat 
December 6, 2014
Enjoy a new holiday tradition at the USS North Carolina! Kids can fly a flag with Santa (bring your own or buy a US or NC flag from the Battleship’s store). Santa and the Battleship’s Captain will sign your certificate of authenticity. Type your Christmas wish list on a vintage typewriter using authentic WWII USS NORTH CAROLINA radio message paper. Call the North Pole in the Battleship’s main radio room. See Santa’s journey being tracked in the Combat Information Center. Create Christmas cards for veterans in VA hospitals and more. Bring your camera for some unique photo ops. A great way to start your holiday season! Click here for additional information.

Island of Lights Christmas Flotilla
December 6, 2014 at 6PM
Fishing boats and pleasure craft electrically decorated with thousands of lights present a spectacular display on the Intracoastal Waterway. They cruise from Snows Cut to the Carolina Beach Boat Basin and back. The boats compete for prizes and add to the wonderful holiday spirit. This Christmas flotilla always takes place on the second Saturday after Thanksgiving and begins at 6 PM. A panel of judges will be on hand to choose the winners. Bring the family and enjoy the evening at Carolina Beach.

Polar Express Family Shows
December 6, 13, 14, 20 and 21, 2014
The charming holiday classic returns for an 11th season!  This favorite program provides a live reading of the story by WWAY-TV personalities, visit with Santa, all the festive decorations in the Museum and hot cocoa afterward! This Wilmington event is scheduled for December 6, 13, 14, 20 and 21, 2014. Shows begin at 4:30PM and at 5:30PM. These shows sell out, so tickets are by prepaid reservation. Tickets are only $5 per person. Kids under age 2 are free. Call 910-763-2634 for more information.

Poplar Grove Christmas Arts & Crafts Show
December 7, 2014 
On Sunday, December 7, 2014, from 11AM - 4PM, visit the decorated 1850 Manor House and grounds as well as Santa and Mrs. Claus. The Christmas Arts and Crafts + Gift Show features vendors selling handmade and other specialty gift items, baked goods and local foods. Shop from a wide variety of products that are perfect for gift giving, decorating and holiday festivities. Vendors will be on the grounds, in the Cultural Arts Center ‘Barn’ and the Agriculture Building. Call 910-686-9518 for more information.​

Holiday Parade in Wilmington NC
December 7, 2014
The 2014 Holiday Parade starts at 5:40PM at the corner of N. Front Street and Walnut Street. The parade will travel south to Orange Street and back north on Water Street. Reviewing stand located in the 00 block of N. Water Street. Click here for additional information.

Christmas Stroll Through the Past at Bellamy Mansion
December 13, 2014 from 4PM - 7PM
The Bellamy Mansion Museum and the Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens invite you to stroll down Market Street through the past. Celebrate the holidays with a luminary walk, period decorations, music, costumed interpreters, petting zoo, refreshments and more! The St. James Church nave will also be open for visitors during the Stroll, with architectural historian Edward F. Turberg available for questions. Call 910-251-3700 for more information.

2014 Jingle Bell 5K Run
December 13, 2014 at 9AM
The Wrightsville Beach Museum of History invites you to participate in the museum's Fourth Annual 5K Jingle Bell Run. As this will be a celebratory, holiday event, race participants are encouraged to dress in holiday apparel (Santa costumes, antlers, snow men, etc.). The 5K Jingle Bell Run will benefit the Wrightsville Beach Museum of History. Join us in a 5K through the Wrightsville Beach area to see the beach in a new way. Historic cottages, beautiful winter marshes, and all your old haunts are part of the scenery as you meet the challenge to experience this special 5K and benefit this special museum. Call 910-256-2569 for more information.

Danielle Snyder
Wilmington NC Events

Wilmington NC 2013 Holiday Events

Wilmington NC holiday events and celebrations feature Christmas lights, Christmas trees, visits with Santa, holiday concerts, holiday parades and more!

Celebrate the holidays in Wilmington North Carolina! Kick off the season at the Island of Lights Lighting of the Lake ceremony, stroll through Enchanted Airlie to enjoy a spectacular array of lights, and catch an incredible display of decorated boats as they cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway in the Christmas Flotilla! Race in the Jingle Bell Run 5k, enjoy holiday music at Thalian Hall and enjoy holiday arts and crafts at the Wilmington Holiday Art Show. Mark your calendar today so that you can enjoy all of Wilmington's exciting holiday events!

Visiting from out of town to experience Christmas in Wilmington? Contact our Wilmington hotel partners to enjoy comfortable accommodations, delicious hot breakfast and more!

2013 Wilmington  NC Holiday Events:

Island of Lights Lighting at the Lake
November 29, 2013 at 7PM
The light up ceremony officially begins the month long, 2013 Island of Lights Festival. The brief opening ceremony will feature the President of The Island of Lights committee, Pleasure Island elected officials, and musical entertainment. Local Cub Scouts provide the Honor Guard and display the Flag for the singing of the National Anthem. Families can walk one mile around the lake to view the beautiful lighted displays. Santa will visit the celebration and free cocoa and cookies will be served prior to Light up. Contact 910-458-6885 for more information.

Enchanted Airlie
November 29 & 30, 2013
December 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14, 18, 19, 20, 21, & 22, 2013
A Wilmington tradition since 2005, guests from around the world have visited Airlie Gardens from Thanksgiving to Christmas to take in the sparkling sights and festive sounds of the season. Guests will experience a nice stroll through the Gardens, on a self-guided tour while feasting their eyes on a spectacular array of lights and holiday displays. Also in attendance, Santa Claus himself, and a few local food and beverage vendors with coffee, hot chocolate, popcorn, cookies and more! Call 910-798-7700 for more information.

Holiday Artist Market - Wilmington Art Show
November 30 - December 1, 2013
Kick off your Holiday shopping at the Wilmington Art Show, a juried art show consisting of outstanding fine artists and craftsmen from Wilmington and around the country. The jury committee carefully selects only the best work submitted in each category assuring a well-rounded quality art show. You'll find everything from exquisite jewelry to funky and functional pottery, abstract sculpture to glistening glass, hand-woven fashions to stunning photography, extraordinary paintings to wonderful wood carvings; this is a show you won't want to miss! Click here for $1 off admission.

American Big Band: Home for the Holidays
December 4, 2013 at 4PM and 8PM
With a twelve-piece band and cast of eight singers and dancers, American Big Band thrills audiences like no other with a fully staged, costumed and choreographed production. Their show-stopping synthesis of Big Band styling and Broadway staging, mixed with the ability to meld popular classics with the latest show tunes and choreography, creates a uniquely entertaining evening perfect for the holidays. Celebrate holiday favorites including hits from Bing to Buble! Call 910-632-2285 for ticket information.

Island of Lights Christmas Parade
December 6, 2013
The 2013 Christmas Parade will be on Friday, December 6th, starting at 7:30pm. It proceeds from Atlanta Avenue down Lake Park Boulevard to the Federal Point Plaza in Carolina Beach. Floats, bands and Santa Clause will be there to add to the festivities of the Season and provide a night of entertainment for families. Call 910-458-5507 for more information.

Christmas Flotilla in Wilmington NC
December 7, 2013
Celebrate the holidays at the Wilmington NC Christmas Flotilla! Fishing boats and pleasure craft electrically decorated with thousands of lights present a spectacular display on the Intracoastal Waterway. They cruise from Snows Cut to the Carolina Beach Boat Basin and back. The boats compete for prizes and add to the wonderful holiday spirit. A panel of judges will be on hand to choose the winners. Bring the family and enjoy the evening at Carolina Beach. Call 910-458-0211 for more information.

Polar Express at Wilmington Railroad Museum
December 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, and 22, 2013
Experience the 10th year of the Polar Express Family Show! Wilmington Railroad Museum presents the classic story, told by WWAY-TV personalities. Visit with Santa, get a special 'first gift' and goodies, and enjoy hot chocolate. Call the Wilmington Railroad Museum at 910-763-2634 to reserve your golden tickets.

12 Tastes of Christmas
December 13, 2013
Get a taste of the holiday spirit at the first annual 12 Tastes of Christmas benefit on Friday, December 13 at the Brooklyn Arts Center. Select downtown eateries and drinkeries will provide delectable nibbles and special seasonal cocktails for your sampling pleasure, with holiday tunes by DJ Battle to make your night merry. Festive attire welcome! Yes, that includes that ugly Xmas sweater! Call 910-538-2939 for more information.

Jingle Bell Run 5k
December 14, 2013
The Wrightsville Beach Museum of History invites you to participate in the museum’s Third Annual 5K Jingle Bell Run. Race participants are encouraged to dress in holiday apparel like Santa costumes, antlers, snowmen, etc for this celebratory, holiday event. There will be a prize for best costume! The 5K course will take participants around the John Nesbitt Loop and will include a short run up North Channel Drive and back. Call 910-256-2569 for more information.

Chatham County Line: Electric Holiday Tour
December 20, 2013
The time has come again for North Carolina's Acoustic Ambassadors to take their Annual Electric Holiday Tour on the road. The holidays are a special time of year and to mark this occasion, Chatham County Line brings a few friends on the road to liven up the stage with them. As in years past, there will be a full acoustic set performed by the band in their tried and true one-mic fashion. Following a short intermission, the band will be joined by Jay Brown, Zeke Hutchins, and Johnny Irion for a rocking take on some of their own songs as well as a few choice numbers that have influenced them through the years. The Holiday show has always provided a warm spirit and a few surprises so call 910-538-2939 to get your tickets before it is too late.

Danielle Snyder
Wilmington NC Events

2012 Wilmington NC Holiday Challenge

Take the 2012 Wilmington NC Holiday Challenge to get in the holiday spirit!
 

Experience the sights, tastes, and smells of Christmas at Wilmington's favorite holiday events. We challenge you to get in the holiday spirit and attend as many Wilmington holiday events as you can this holiday season! Print the 2012 Wilmington NC Holiday Challenge check list and hang it on your fridge today. Check off each holiday event as you go and post holiday pictures on our Facebook page! Share this Holiday Challenge with family and friends so that you can celebrate the holidays together.

Visiting Wilmington NC from out of town this holiday season? Take advantage of special discount hotel rates from our local hotel partners. We look forward to seeing you in Wilmington NC!

Read more about the exciting Wilmington events in the 2012 Wilmington NC Holiday Challenge and get in the Christmas Spirit today!

Visit Santa
November 23 - December 24, 2012
Hours Vary Throughout the Season
Visit Santa in Santa Village at Mayfaire. Children can visit him and have their photos taken by Mayfaires professional photographer. Santa welcomes children, adults, pets, and anyone with a holiday spirit. Call 910-256-5131 for more information.

Enchanted Airlie
November 29, 30, 2012 December 1, 6, 7, 8, 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, 22, 2012  
Enchanted Airlie is voted one of the Southeast Tourism Society's Top 20 Events! Airlie's holiday light display, Enchanted Airlie, runs until just before Christmas. The fantastic LEGOS display is returning this year. Last year's display was made up of over 250,000 bricks and set the record as the largest crowd to see a single LEGO display in the US! Call 910-798-7700 for more information.
 
It's A Wonderful Life
November 29 - December 2, December 6-9, 13-16, 2012
Take a jump back in time and experience first-hand the MAGIC behind a LIVE 1940's Radio Broadcast with 'It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play'. This treasured holiday show comes to life right before your eyes as an ensemble of Five 1940's radio players perform a special Christmas broadcast of It's a Wonderful Life, complete with music, sound effects and a Live Audience! Get your tickets to It's a Wonderful Life today.

Train and Light Spectacular in Wilmington NC
December 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, & 30, 2012
The Wilmington Railroad Museum and WWAY NewsChannel 3 present Wilmington's Train and Light Spectacular. Come down and see the Museum as never before. More than 15,000 lights glisten and sparkle to mark the holidays, Santa is on hand, with cookies from Sugar on Front and cider to sip and enjoy. Call 910-763-2634 for tickets.

Island of Lights Holiday Flotilla
December 1, 2012 at 6PM
Fishing boats and pleasure craft electrically decorated with thousands of lights present a spectacular display on the Intracoastal Waterway. They cruise from Snow's Cut to the Carolina Beach Boat Basin and back. Watch as the boats compete for prizes and add to the wonderful holiday spirit. Call 910-458-5507 for more information.

NC Aquarium's Holiday Elf Camp
December 1, 8, & 15, 2012
Kids ages 5-12 are welcome to attend the 2012 Holiday Elf Camps. Elves will be making gifts, wrapping them, meeting other elves, and making some extra special memories here at the aquarium. This fun and educational program gives adult elves guilt-free time for holiday shopping and relaxation. Camps include a pizza lunch, snacks, crafts, holiday gift-wrap, instruction and countless wonderful memories. Call 800-832-3474 for more information.

Holiday Lights By Boat
December 1, 5, 7, 8, 12, 14, 15, 21, 22, 2012 from 5:30PM - 7PM
Join Wilmington Water Tours for this special holiday boat excursion. Enjoy holiday punch at the Captains Reception and then depart for the Harbor Holiday Light Cruise. Call 910-338-3134 for more information.

Candyland Christmas Event 2012
December 2, 2012 from 1 - 4:30PM
Celebrate the magic of the season with your entire family and Santa at the 2012 Candyland Christmas Event at The Children's Museum of Wilmington. Children will make candy cottages, enjoy goodies, make handmade ornaments, story time, share wish lists with Santa, mix reindeer food, and enjoy special holiday performances. Call 910-254-3534 for more information.

10th Annual Wilmington Holiday Parade
December 2, 2012 at 6:10PM
Join us in historic downtown Wilmington for the 10th Annual Wilmington Holiday Parade. This Wilmington parade begins at N. Front and Walnut at 6:10PM. Get in the holiday spirit with family and friends at this exciting Wilmington event. Call 910-341-7855 for more information.

Poplar Grove Christmas Crafts Fair
December 2, 2012 from Noon to 5PM
Dressed in its holiday finest, the plantation's Christmas Open House is a charming gateway to old fashioned holiday spirit. Take a self guided tour or shop the Craft Fair. Children can visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. A hayride through Abbey Nature Preserve is a wonderful trip for the whole family. As Poplar Grove's way of saying thank you and  Merry Christmas to the community, admission is free today. Learn more about the Christmas Open House and Craft Fair at Poplar Grove today.

Fort Fisher Holiday Open House
December 6, 2012 from 10AM - 5PM
Enjoy seasonal refreshments, decorations, and live music by area choral and instrumental groups throughout the day. There will be special one-day discounts in the Museum Shop. Call 910-458-5538 for more details.

Miracle on 34th Street
December 6, 7, 8, 9, 13, 14, 15, & 16, 2012 
The movie opened in 1947 and went on to win the Academy Award for Best Screenplay. Tony Award-winner Meredith Willson created this magical musical adaptation of the beloved film. When a nice old man who claims to be Santa Claus is institutionalized as insane, a young lawyer decides to defend him by arguing in court that he is, in fact, the real thing. And in the process, a cynical single mom and her troubled daughter are changed forever by the power of believing. Call 910-632-2285 for tickets.

The Holiday Flea at BAC
December 7, 8, and 9, 2012
Renowed as the 'ultimate vintage flea' and attended by hundreds and hundreds of shoppers and dozens of vintage vendors from around the region, The Holiday Flea will be a weekend-long event that promises to be bigger and better with a wide array of vintage, retro, and upcycled treasures. Wilmington's finest food trucks will feed holiday crowds and the BAC cash bar serves liquid refreshments. Visit www.brooklynartsnc.com for more information.

Kure Beach Christmas Show
December 7, 2012 at 6PM
The Annual Kure Beach Christmas Show is sprinkled with snow, bright characters, talented singers, and amazing dancers. Lighted holiday floats, live bands, and colorful characters like Santa will be at the annual nighttime Christmas parade to add to the festivities of the season.

Santa Claus Cruise
December 8, 2012
Cruise aboard Henrietta III to the North Pole to pick up Santa Claus! Cape Fear Riverboats presents the 24th Annual Santa Claus Cruise to benefit Wilmington Salvation Army's Food Pantry. Admission price is 6 non-perishable food items per person. Call 910-343-1611 to reserve your spot.

Polar Express Holiday Show
December 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, & 23, 2012
Shows at 4:30PM and 5:30PM
The classic story returns for the holidays! WWAY NewsChannel 3 and Wilmington Railroad Museum present the Polar Express Family Show. On-air staff read this holiday favorite, followed by a visit from Santa and special 'first gift'. Afterwards, enjoy cookies from Sugar on Front and sip cocoa.Call 910-763-2634 to reserve your Golden Tickets.

Budweiser Clydesdales at Mayfaire
December 9, 2012 from 2PM - 4PM
Welcome the Budweiser Clydesdales on Sunday, December 9th from 2PM - 4PM at Mayfaire. Don't forget your camera so that you can snap pictures of these amazing animals as they walk the Mayfaire streets. Call 910-256-5131 for more information.

North Carolina Symphony Holiday Pops
December 11, 2012 at 8PM
The North Carolina Symphony comes to you this holiday season for a concert of yuletide classics to warm your heart. Along the way, you'll enjoy all-time symphonic favorites and the orchestra's ever-popular Christmas carol sing-along. Join us at Keenan Auditorium for this exciting event!

Santa at the Cotton Exchange
Every Saturday and Sunday until December 23, 2012
Visit Santa at the Cotton Exchange in Wilmington, North Carolina. Santa is available on Saturdays from 12PM - 4PM and Sundays from 1PM - 4PM until December 23, 2012. Bring a camera and make a memory at Santa's Station. Call 910-343-9896 for more information.

Caroling by 'REINDEER' Drawn Carriage
December 14, 15, 21, 22, 23, & 24, 2012 from 6PM - 10PM
Come and sing Christmas carols with Santa and his special 'reindeer'. Snuggle under warm lap blankets while enjoying the beautiful Christmas lights. $12 per adult, $5 per child under 12. Free candy canes for children! Call 910-251-8889 for more information.

Wilmington Trolley Holiday Light Tours
December 14 - 23, 2012
Wilmington Trolley presents the 2012 Holiday Light Tours! Enjoy music, narration, and fun with family and friends. Take advantage of the Holiday Family Special and get 2 adult tickets and 2 children tickets for $25! Visit www.wilmingtontrolley.com for more information.

5K Jingle Bell Run in Wilmington NC
December 15, 2012
Join us for a this spectacular holiday event! Race participants are encouraged to dress in holiday apparel including Santa costumes, antlers, and snowmen. There will be a prize for the best costume! Call 910-256-2569 for more information.

Sounds of the Season from Stage and Screen
December 16, 2012 at 4PM
Join us at the Scottish Rite Temple Auditorium in Wilmington, North Carolina for the Sounds of the Season from Stage and Screen. Tickets are $9.99 in advance and $12 at the door. Visit www.wilmingtonchoralsociety.com for more information.

Free Baroque Christmas Concert
December 17, 2012 at 7:30PM
Join us at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Wilmington, North Carolina for this FREE Baroque Christmas Concert. This holiday event will benefit the Good Shepherd Center. The concert is free, donations are accepted. Call 910-620-7207 for more information.

Happy Holidays Everyone!

Danielle Snyder
Wilmington NC Events