June 2014 Concerts, Soccer Games, Tournaments and Events

Wilmington NC June 2014 events feature Wilmington Hammerheads Soccer, the Spring Flea at BAC, the 2nd Annual Chainstorm Disc Golf Tournament, Art Garfunkel live and more.

Cheer for the Wilmington Hammerheads Soccer team at Legion Stadium, catch free movies at Carolina Beach Lake and free Fireworks by the Sea, compete in the Pier to Pier to Pier Run, SUP and Crab Crawl and enjoy an Intimate Evening with Art Garfunkel at the Brooklyn Arts Center. We look forward to seeing you at Wilmington's exciting events coming up this June 2014!

Visiting Wilmington, North Carolina to attend these Wilmington events? Our local hotel partners provide free breakfast, free WiFi and free parking. Contact them today to make your Wilmington hotel reservations.

Wilmington North Carolina June 2014 Events:

Music on the Town Summer Concert Series
June 6, 2014 - Eastbound 
June 13, 2014 - Beach Billy Brothers 
June 20, 2014 - The Other Guys 
June 27, 2014 - Blivet
Mayfaires Music on the Town Concert Series will fill the air with the sounds of local bands every Friday evening from 6pm until dark beginning Friday, May 2nd and concluding Friday, July 25th. The 13 week free Friday night concert series will take place on the Mayfaire Event Lawn located directly behind Ulta and HH Gregg. Plentiful free parking is available on site, just bring a blanket or chairs for comfort and pack your picnic basket with whatever you please. Its the best FREE music in Wilmington!

Airlie Garden Summer Concert Series
June 6, 2014 - 40 East
June 20, 2014 - 'Shine
The Airlie Garden Summer Concert Series continues this June 2014. Enjoy music of every genre this summer 2014. Dance these summer nights away with family and friends. Enjoy pop, alternative, country, rock n' roll classics, reggae, jazz and more at Airlie Gardens. Call 910-798-7700 for more information.

Wilmington Hammerheads Soccer
June 6, 2014 - Wilmington vs OKC 
June 21, 2014 - Wilmington vs Fire Reserves 
June 28, 2014 - Wilmington vs Richmond
Head on over to Legion Stadium to see the Wilmington Hammerheads Soccer Team challenge their opponents right here in Wilmington, NC. Click here to purchase tickets! Visiting from out of town? Our local hotel partners offer spacious guest rooms, complimentary breakfast and complimentary wi-fi. We look forward to seeing you at the soccer field!

Fireworks by the Sea in Wilmington
June 5, 2014 - Machine Gun 
June 12, 2014 - Chris Bellamy Band 
June 19, 2014 - Eastbound 
June 26, 2014 - L Shaped Lot
Enjoy free fireworks by the sea on the beach near the Carolina Beach Boardwalk at sunset every Thursday night during the Summer Months. The fireworks and gazebo entertainment are free and open to all, weather permitting. The fireworks will begin at 9PM and the gazebo entertainment begins at 6:30PM. Be sure to arrive early to grab your spot at the gazebo or on the beach.

Free Movies at the Carolina Beach Lake
June 8, 2014 - Big Miracle
June 15, 2014 - Despicable Me 2
June 22, 2014 - Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs 2
June 29, 2014 - Monsters University
Enjoy Free Movies at the Lake Sunday nights throughout the summer at Carolina Beach Lake Park. Bring your chairs and find a spot on the lawn where the whole family can enjoy newly released movies. This is a true summertime treat for adults and kids alike. Popcorn, candy, soft drinks, cotton candy, and more will be for sale at the movies - and all for a reasonable price. Bring your own food and beverages as well. Stay in tune for additional movies playing this summer!

The Spring Flea at BAC
June 6 - 8, 2014
The Brooklyn Arts Center is excited to announce “The Spring Flea at BAC” at the Brooklyn Arts Center. Renowned as the “ultimate vintage flea” and attended by more than 1,500 shoppers and dozens of vintage vendors from around the region, The Spring 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, 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.

29th Annual Carolina Beach Music Festival
June 7, 2014 - Gates Open At 10AM
The historic 29th Annual Carolina Beach Music Festival is one of the longest running beach music festivals in the United States. Enjoy a full day of live entertainment with the hottest beach music bands in the South. For over 28 years each June, thousands of Beach Music Fans head for Carolina Beach, for "Sun, Music & Beer." with a little shaggin thrown in. Call 910-458-8434  for more information.

Pier to Pier to Pier Run, SUP and Crab Crawl
June 7, 2014 at 8AM
This exciting event includes a beach run at low tide and NEW SUP Race. Runners/Walkers will start at Johnny Mercers Pier at 8:30AM, run to Crystal Pier, turn around and run back with a distance of approximately 3.44. miles. The SUP race will begin at 8:00AM at Crystal Pier and end at Johnny Mercers Pier. For the adventurous, there will be a Biathalon SUP/Race option. Fun for the whole family with a Crab Crawl at 8:15AM (FREE) with prizes for the best sea creature outfit and fastest crawl. Click here to register for this Wilmington Event.

2nd Annual Chainstorm Disc Golf Tournament
June 7, 2014
The Chainstorm Disc Golf Tournament features two rounds at Kure Beach Disc Golf Course with free lunch. Trophies will be awarded for top 3 places in each division. Registration is $25 which includes a player's package of event t-shirt, event disc, swag & hot dogs between rounds. Call 910-458-8216 for more information.

5K Race for the Planet 
June 8, 2014
The N.C. Aquarium at Fort Fisher brings you the sixth annual 5K Race for the Planet on Sunday, June 8, 2014. Celebrate World Oceans Day at the greenest race around. Runners and walkers receive organic t-shirts, free admission to the aquarium on race day, reusable shopping bags, recyclable bib numbers and eco-friendly medals and prizes! The 5K Race for the Planet welcomes racers of all skill levels-first time racers, children, elite athletes and walkers. Call 910-458-7468 for more information about this race!

Beer Tasting Cruise in Wilmington NC
June 14, 2014 at 7PM
Join Wilmington Water Tours for a special Beer Tasting Cruise. If you like good beer..this is the cruise for you. While enjoying the gorgeous views, you’ll get to sample beer paired up with some tasty appetizers. The Brewmaster from Front St. Brewery will be on board to host this special beer sampling event. He will give samples of the different micro beers they brew & describe the ingredients. Sit back and embrace the wondrous scenery of the Cape Fear waterways as we embark on this special beer and appetizers sampling cruise. Don't miss this personal, one-of-a-kind adventure. Click here to purchase tickets.

Cape Fear Clash Lacrosse Tournament
June 14 - 15, 2014
The 2nd Annual Cape Fear Clash Lacrosse Tournament will be held June 14 - 15, 2014 at Veterans Park in Wilmington, NC. All participating teams will play a minimum of 5 games at this Wilmington lacrosse tournament. Register today so that your team can participate in this event. The field is only 2 miles from Carolina Beach! Call 910-467-5059 for more information.

Father's Day Cruise in Wilmington NC
June 15, 2014 at 1PM and 3PM
Join Wilmington Water Tours for this spectacular cruise that glides down the beautiful waterways of the Cape Fear River. Our cruise provides a scenic, comfortable and relaxing experience that is an ideal way to spend a memorable day with your Dad! The journey is comfortable, relaxing and inspirational. It offers views of unspoiled nature and a variety of wildlife with some light narration. There will be hot dogs and all the toppings catered by Front Street Brewery, so sit back and enjoy this special treat for Dad! Click here for tickets.

Art Garfunkel in Wilmington NC
June 29, 2014
AEG Live and Progressive Music Group present An Intimate Evening with Art Garfunkel, complete with an acoustic performance of Art's Greatest Hits, anecdotes and prose, and a unique opportunity to participate in a Q&A session with this legendary performer. This is a completely seated event at the Brooklyn Arts Center. The doors open at 7PM and the show begins at 8PM. Call 910-538-2939 for more information.

Danielle Snyder
Wilmington NC Events

May 2014 Wilmington NC Events

May 2014 Wilmington events feature Cinco de Mayo festivities, Mother's Day Celebrations, athletic events, fireworks, free movies at Carolina Beach Lake and more!

Enjoy an exquisite culinary experience at the Wilmington Wine and Food Festival, bike 20 miles from downtown Wilmington to Wrightsville Beach in the 25th Annual River to Sea Bike Ride and compete in the Carolina Beach Double Sprint Triathlon this May 2014. These are just a few of the exciting events coming up in Wilmington, North Carolina. Make plans with family and friends so that you can join in on the excitement at these Wilmington events!

Visiting from out of town? Our local Wilmington hotel partners offer spacious guest rooms, complimentary breakfast and complimentary internet!

Wilmington NC May 2014 Events:

Wilmington Wine and Food Festival
May 2-4, 2014
An exquisite culinary paring benefiting the Open Gate Domestic Violence Shelter & The Bellamy Mansion Museum. Bringing together top area chefs with notable wines and wine makers from around the world to celebrate and advance public appreciation for great wine and food. Don’t miss these exciting events and the opportunity to sample over 200 different wines and beers throughout the weekend paired with scrumptious bites from many of our best locally owned restaurants, caterers, and food trucks. Purchase tickets online or through our many local participating wine shops. Call 910-251-3700 for more information.

25th Annual River to Sea Bike Ride
May 3, 2014
The 25th Annual River to Sea Bike Ride features a 20 mile casual-paced bicycle ride from downtown Wilmington to Wrightsville Beach on Wilmington's River to Sea Bicycle Route - North Carolina Bike Route 1. Mark your calendar today so that you can participate in this Wilmington, North Carolina event with family and friends. Visit www.rivertoseabikeway.com for more information.

Cinco de Mayo Eve Lunch Cruise
May 4, 2014 at 2PM
Cinco de Mayo is a celebration held on May 5th. It originated with Mexican-American communities in the American West as a way to commemorate the cause of freedom and democracy during the first years of the American Civil War, and today the date is observed in the United States as a celebration of Mexican heritage and pride. Come on board a day early for a lunch cruise that features beautiful views of the famous Cape Fear River, relaxing afternoon breeze, lunch catered by Front St Brewery and Mexican Beer and Margarita Specials. Call 800-979-3370 for tickets.

Cape Fear Comedy Festival
May 7-10, 2014
The Cape Fear Comedy Festival is a four day Independently run live comedy festival held on May 7th-10th in Wilmington, North Carolina.  What does 'independently run' mean?  It means that two guys, both comedians, run the festival without the influence of agents or funding from corporate entities. The Cape Fear Comedy Festival will also feature multiple opportunities for comedians to network and meet other comedians participating in the festival. Visit www.capefearcomedyfestival.com for more information.

Mother's Day Lunch Cruise in Wilmington
May 11, 2014
Celebrate Mother's Day with a scenic cruise aboard Henrietta III on the Cape Fear River. The cruise will be narrated by the Captain, followed by lunch. Enjoy crisp tossed salad, french rolls, premium meats, cheeses, breads, potato salad, butter cookies, coffee and tea. Make this Mother's Day a memorable one for the entire family. Call 910-343-1611 for tickets.

Carolina Beach Double Sprint Triathlon
May 11, 2014
The very first "Formula 1" or super sprint style triathlon in the U.S. The Carolina Beach Double Sprint is now taking over from the Kure Beach Double Sprint. After a 1 year absence from the Pleasure Island, we are bringing it back. Competitors start out with a 375 meter ocean swim. Upon exiting the water, participants put on their running gear at the "Beach Transition Area" and run 1.5 miles to the "Bike Transition Area". Participants then complete a 20K bike ride on a closed course.  Then it's back on with the running gear for the 1.5 mile run back to the "Beach Transition Area".  Participants complete the race by once again swimming the 375 meter course. Click here for additional information.

Wilmington Greek Festival
May 16-18, 2014
The Greek community of Wilmington, NC shares its culture, faith, and heritage including food, music, dancing, a marketplace and cooking demonstrations by hosting the 22nd Annual Greek Festival. This festival held at the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church is an annual event that draws thousands every year. Visit www.stnicholasgreekfest.com for more information.

Fireworks by the Sea in Wilmington
May 23, 2014 - David Dixon Trio & The Cut
May 29, 2014 - Mighty McFly
Enjoy free fireworks by the sea on the beach near the Carolina Beach Boardwalk at sunset every Thursday night during the Summer Months. The fireworks and gazebo entertainment are free and open to all, weather permitting. The fireworks will begin at 9PM and the gazebo entertainment begins at 6:30PM. Be sure to arrive early to grab your spot at the gazebo or on the beach.

Orange Street Arts Festival
May 24 - 25, 2014
Wilmington's largest downtown Arts Festival returns for its 19th year this Memorial Day weekend. Over 55 artists from the area and around the state, South Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee will show Oil & Watercolor paintings, Pottery Jewelry, Wood, Glass, and Paper Creations on Orange Street between Front and Second, and inside the Hannah Block Historic USO/Community Arts Center. When viewing the artists inside the public is invited to tour the lobby museum. The lobby has been restored to its 1943 appearance complete with a self guided tour of the WWII exhibits. There will be Food Vendors, a Wine Tent and live entertainment featuring some of your favorite Thalian Association performers adult and youth performers. Call 910-632-2285 for more information.

Free Movies at the Carolina Beach Lake
May 25, 2014 - Frozen
Enjoy Free Movies at the Lake Sunday nights throughout the summer at Carolina Beach Lake Park. Bring your chairs and find a spot on the lawn where the whole family can enjoy newly released movies. This is a true summertime treat for adults and kids alike. Popcorn, candy, soft drinks, cotton candy, and more will be for sale at the movies - and all for a reasonable price. Bring your own food and beverages as well. Stay in tune for additional movies playing this summer!

Danielle Snyder
Wilmington NC Events

Wilmington NC April 2014 Events

Wilmington North Carolina April 2014 events include the North Carolina Azalea Festival, Easter celebrations, The Carolina Cup, expos, shows and more.

Enjoy an entire week of natural beauty and exciting entertainment at the North Carolina Azalea Festival, sample delicious chowder at the Pleasure Island Chowder Cook Off and hunt for Easter eggs at popular Wilmington attractions including Fort Fisher Aquarium and the USS North Carolina this April 2014. Get together with family and friends at the Rims on the River Vintage Car Show, race in the Carolina Cup and enjoy special performances at Thalian Hall. These are just a few of the exciting events coming up this April 2014 in Wilmington, NC. Mark your calendar so that you can join us at these spectacular Wilmington events.

Visiting from out of town? Make reservations at one of these premier Wilmington hotels where you will enjoy complimentary breakfast and free wifi. We look forward to seeing you at these Wilmington events.

Wilmington NC Events in April 2014: 

North Carolina Azalea Festival
April 9 - 13, 2014
The North Carolina Azalea Festival is Wilmington’s premier annual event! Each April, a full week of natural beauty, big-name entertainment, festive galas, fun family events and Southern hospitality come together to showcase the charms of the Wilmington area. Enjoy concerts, fairs and special events at this incredible Wilmington event. Everywhere the blooming azaleas offer colorful testimony to the rich heritage of coastal Carolina. The Southeast Tourism Society selected the North Carolina Azalea Festival as one of its Top 20 Events, for the second year in a row. Call 910-794-4650 for more information.

18th Annual Pleasure Island Chowder Cook Off
April 12, 2014 from 11:30AM - 5PM
The 18th Annual Pleasure Island Chowder Cook Off features chefs from the restaurants of Pleasure Island, Monkey Junction and Wilmington. Bring your family and your appetite because YOU vote on the Best Chowder! Spend the day at the beach sampling delicious chowder, listening to live music and playing games with the kids. There will also be hotdogs, funnel cakes, soft drinks, beer and wine for sale. Come to the beach for the weekend and spend the day at the Pleasure Island Chowder Cook Off. Call 910-458-8434 for more information.

City Ballet presents The Sleeping Beauty
April 12, 2014
Visit Thalian Hall April 12th for City Ballet of Wilmington's Sleeping Beauty at 2:30PM and 7PM. This original version will be a beautiful fully staged production with gorgeous costumes, backdrops, and some exciting new twists to the story. City Ballet's Sleeping Beauty will inspire all ages and instantly transports you into a magical world of fantasy and adventure. A beloved fairy tale where a kingdom is challenged and virtue is put to the test. Call 910-632-2285 for tickets.

Easter Egg Hunt Carnival
April 18, 2014 from 10AM - 2PM
Hippity Hoppity down the Battleship trail for a fun Spring event with continuous games and egg hunts throughout the day. Make sure to bring your camera and take pictures with Buddy the Battleship Bunny. Offered again this year is a slower paced hunt area for kids who need a less stressful environment or for children with special needs who choose a slower paced environment. Admission for the Easter Egg Hunt Carnival only $5 per person, kids 2 and under are free. Call 910-251-5797 for more information.

Alligator Egg Hunt at Fort Fisher Aquarium
April 18 - 19, 2014
Join us at Fort Fisher Aquarium for the 2014 Alligator Egg Hunt. Kids get to see a live baby alligator and learn about these fascinating animals. They create their own special alligator egg basket and then search for candy filled “alligator eggs.” Limited space is available. Ages 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Call 800-832-FISH for tickets.

Easter Bunny Drawn Tours
April 18 - 20, 2014 from 10AM - 10PM
Experience the picturesque beauty of Spring 2014 in historic downtown Wilmington. Our world's largest 'Easter Bunnies' will take you on a 'Bunny' drawn tour of Wilmington. Tours start at Water & Market Streets and they include free surprises for children. Tickets are $12 for adults and $5 per child under 12. Reservations are not required. Call 910-251-8889 for more information.

Rims On The River Vintage Car, Hot Rod, & Motorcycle Show
April 18-20, 2014
Rims on the River is an annual event in downtown Wilmington, North Carolina. Cars and motorcycles dating 1980 and older, line the streets of the historic downtown area, with the Cape Fear River and the diverse collection of retail stores as their backdrop. The event has drawn a wide array of cars from the entire southeast region of the state, as well as a few neighboring states, totaling approximately 600 vehicles on display last year and approximately 40,000 attendees. As always the event is free and open to the public. Musical entertainment will be welcoming this year’s attendees to our event, as well as to our downtown area. For more information, visit www.RimsOnTheRiver.com.

The Carolina Cup
April 23-27, 2014
The 2014 Carolina Cup kicks off the race season with 4 courses: a kids race, the Harbor Island Recreational “fun” race, a Money Island open race and the dreaded Graveyard Elite Race. In 2012, the Carolina Cup was the largest race on the East Coast with over 400 paddlers competing in the first day of races. In 2013, we had over 600. The Ocean of Hope Cancer Awareness Paddle will be on Sunday. Expect clinics by Danny Ching, Jimmy Terrell, Larry Cain, Jaime Mitchell and PaddleFit. Plan a 5 day weekend and bring the whole family!

2014 Cape Fear Tattoo & Arts Expo
April 25 - 27, 2014
The Cape Fear Tattoo & Arts Expo is becoming one the Carolina's cornerstones in artistic exhibition. The 4th Annual Cape Fear Tattoo & Arts Expo will be centrally located in historic downtown Wilmington. Enjoy dining, museums and of course the Carolina Beaches! The Cape Fear Tattoo & Arts Expo has fun for the whole family all weekend. This convention is open to the public. There will be tattoo contests, art showcases, seminars, art fusions and much more.

Making Legends Local Gala
April 26, 2014
You are invited to attend the 11th Annual Making Legends Local Gala to benefit the Carousel Center, Inc. The Red Carpet Reception begins at 6PM and the Stage Show begins at 8PM. Visitors can expect both live and lip syncing performances that will span the Broadway's spectrum. The Making Legends Local gala is the Carousel's Center's largest fundraising event of the year. Join us at Thalian Hall for this exciting Wilmington event. Call 910-256-9888 for ticket information.

Danielle Snyder
Wilmington NC Events

Wilmington Events in March 2014

The Cape Fear Beer Festival, Quintiles Wrightsville Beach Marathon, Cape Fear Wildlife Expo, Back to the Beach Car Show and more are happening this March in Wilmington, North Carolina!

Enjoy an epic day of beer sampling at the 2014 Cape Fear Beer Festival, race in the Cardinal Strut, enjoy three days of hunting and fishing exhibitors at the Cape Fear Wildlife Expo, compete in the Quintiles Wrightsville Beach Marathon and visit the area's largest and longest running garden event this March 2014! These are just a few of the exciting events coming up in Wilmington, NC. Mark your calendar so that you can join us at these Wilmington events.

Visiting from out of town? Contact our local hotel partners to make your hotel reservations today!

March 2014 Wilmington NC Events:

Cape Fear Beer Festival
March 1, 2014
The 4th Annual Cape Fear Beer Festival will feature over 100 great American and International Beers, Ciders and a few wines. Enjoy unlimited sampling on this epic day of beer. Plenty of food options will be available for purchase. Join us in historic downtown Wilmington, North Carolina at the Wilmington Convention Center for this exciting event.

Cardinal Strut 5k, 10k & 1.2 mile Family Fun Fun
March 1, 2014 at 8:30AM
Holly Tree Elementary is announcing its 5th Annual Cardinal Strut for the community. From age 2 to 72 we have a race for you! This year’s Cardinal Strut returns with the same great 5k, 10k, Fun Run and 5k walk events. We are also excited to announce that we will be holding Wilmington’s first ever certified 1 mile road race! Who will be the fastest man, woman and child in Wilmington? The post race party will feature breakfast for all participants, music, bounce house and great awards. Click here for more information.

Cape Fear Wildlife Expo
March 14 - 16, 2014
Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy three days of hunting and fishing exhibitors, wildlife art, decoys, boats and accessories, truck and ATV displays, fly fishing demos, camping, guides, outfitters, sportfishing simulator, contests, archery demos and fun for the entire family. The Expo will be held in historic downtown in the NEW Wilmington Convention Center along the Cape Fear River in Wilmington, North Carolina.

Quintiles Wrightsville Beach Marathon
March, 16, 2014
The Quintiles Wrightsville Beach Marathon is a unique race. The full marathon is essentially 2 loops of the half marathon course, however there are a few straight aways that runners do 3 times. This spectator friendly course allows friends and family to see marathoners 5 to 8 times during the race. The course consists of college themed cheer stations with the NCAA basketball tourney beginning, DJ’s, bands and spectator hot spots. Visit Wilmington, North Carolina to enjoy Marathon Madness at the Beach!

2014 Back to the Beach Car Show
March 28 - 29, 2014
The Sun Coast Cruisers are excited to bring the Back to the Beach Car Show to Ft .Fisher again this year. Enjoy a Friday night cruise from the Food Lion parking lot at the Snows Cut bridge to the Ft. Fisher complex where the SCC will host a free social for all attendees. As a special treat we have the famous COCO-LOCO band for your entertainment. Call 910-409-0231 for more information.

Made In NC
March 28, 2014 from 3PM - 9PM
March 29, 2014 from 11AM - 6PM
The Brooklyn Arts Center is excited to announce Made In NC, Wilmington’s modern handmade marketplace, at the BAC (516 North 4th Street—the corner of Campbell and North 4th streets). Come celebrate Wilmington’s community of local, original craftsmen and artisans at the Brooklyn Arts Center when 50-plus of the region’s finest present their work in the magnificent BAC. Expect unique and fabulous, handmade creations of all kinds: art, clothing and accessories, household and garden items, and more! Wilmington’s fabulous food trucks will provide nourishment, and the BAC cash bar will serve liquid refreshments. Admission is $5 at the door. It’s good for both days and includes a raffle ticket. Kids 12 and under are free. ATM onsite. Free parking. For more information about Made In NC, please visit www.brooklynartsnc.com.

Poplar Grove Plantation Herb & Garden Fair
March 29-30, 2014
Visit the area's largest and longest running garden event featuring the plant and garden sale, classes and activities. The plantation grounds will be full of vendors selling annuals, perennials, shrubs, native plants, vegetable starts, herbs, container gardens and other types of plant material. Shop for herbal products, arts & crafts, garden and yard art and local foods! Call 910-686-9518 for more information.

Danielle Snyder
Wilmington NC Events

Wilmington North Carolina February 2014 Events

Wilmington NC February 2014 events include Wilmington concerts, fundraisers, cruises, art shows, and more.

Celebrate Valentine's Day with your sweetheart on a romantic dinner cruise, dance the night away at exciting Wilmington concerts, get inspired about your upcoming home improvement at the ACS Spring Home Show and participate in the Polar Plunge to raise money for Special Olympics. There are so many exciting events and activities happening this February in Wilmington, NC. Mark your calendar so that you can participate!

Visiting from out of town? Our local hotel partners are offering special discount rates this February 2014. Click here for a list of hotels and special offers. We look forward to seeing you at these upcoming events!

February 2014 Wilmington NC Events:

Best of 2014 at Brooklyn Arts Center
February 8, 2014
Celebrate with the best of the best. encore magazine and Kids Making It are pleased to announce encore’s Best of 2014 Masquerade Ball and Awards Party. Enjoy tons of food from nominees, live music in the annual Best of Battle of the Bands, plus a DJ and dance party after the awards show! Wear your most creative masquerade-inspired garb. Best Dressed King and Queen will be crowned at the after party. Call 910-538-2939 for more information.

1940's Raiders Ball
February 14, 2014 at 6PM
Valentine's Day will be the most wonderful of days when you celebrate at the first annual Raiders Ball. $65 tickets include dinner, two drinks tickets and music. Enjoy a fantastic evening that will raise money for the Raising Raiders Initiative. Live entertainment features Gwen Hughes and The Retro Jazz Kats. 1940's dress encouraged but not required. Call 910-538-2939 for more information.

Sweetheart Saturday Dinner Cruise
February 15, 2014
Cape Fear Riverboats presents a Sweetheart Dinner Cruise on Saturday, February 15, 2014. Invite your sweetheart to a dinner cruise on the scenic Cape Fear River. Enjoy a delicious buffet dinner, entertainment and a spectacular cruise with your loved one. Call 910-343-1611 for more information.

Firepower at the USS North Carolina Battleship
February 15, 2014
Learn about and explore the Battleship's 16-inch and 5-inch guns from the gun houses to the ammunition loading compartments; the 40mm and 20mm guns, and the weapons that they replaced (1.10 and 50 caliber guns). The finest guns are of little use without the means to direct their fire accurately at the target. Presenters will discuss the various types of fire control equipment and how main and secondary battery plotting rooms and the combat information center operated. Participants will enjoy a lively, engaging, in-depth program with presentations, hands-on experience, and serious exploration for adult learners. Call 910-251-5797 for more information.

21st Annual Intercultural Week at UNCW
February 17 - 22, 2014
UNCW presents the 21st Annual Intercultural Week. Celebrate the rich diversity found in Wilmington and the UNCW community. Enjoy films, performances, workshops, panel discussions and lectures throughout the week. All events are free and open to the public, unless otherwise noted. Call 910-962-3685 for more information.

ACS Spring Home Show
February 21 - 23, 2014
Visit the Wilmington Convention Center for the ACS Spring Home Show. Whether it's a minor renovation or a major remodel, the Home Show will inspire, motivate and excite you for your upcoming home improvement. Set your imagination free and get inspired by expert advice from home improvement professionals, national celebrities and local specialists. Start planning with confidence! Call 855-523-5310 for more information.

Art for All at BAC
February 21, 2014 from 3PM - 9PM
February 22, 2014 from 11AM - 7PM
The Brooklyn Arts Center is excited to announce Art for All 4, Wilmington’s cutting-edge art show. Celebrate Wilmington’s community of local, original artists at the Brooklyn Arts Center when 50-plus of the region’s finest present their work in the magnificent BAC. Expect fabulous paintings, illustrations, sculpture, photography, watercolors, glass, metal, and woodwork, and more, priced perfectly at $25-$250. Wilmington’s fantastic food trucks will provide nourishment, the BAC cash bar will serve liquid refreshments, and a coffee shop in the courtyard will caffeinate the crowd. Call 910-538-2939 for more information.

Wilmington Wine and Beer Walk
February 22, 2014
Downtown Wilmington is excited for the return of the Wilmington Wine and Beer Walk. Don't miss out on this popular sampling tour of downtown's finest venues! As you walk through the various locations you will receive 2 wonderful samples (per venue) of a specially selected wine or beer. Patrons are encouraged to be responsible as they visit the hosting venues and to always remember to tip your servers. All participants must be at least 21 years of age, and have a valid ID readily available for establishments to verify. Click here for additional information.

Special Olympics Polar Plunge

February 22, 2014

Take a chilling plunge into the Atlantic Ocean and raise money for Special Olympics New Hanover County at the 10th Annual Special Olympics Polar Plunge. You can plunge as an individual or as a team. Each plunger will get prizes based on the amount of money he or she has personally raised. Prizes include t-shirts, sweatshirts and more. The more money you raise, the better the prize. Sign up today to participate in this exciting Wilmington event. Call 910-341-7253 for more information.

The Carolina Chocolate Drops

February 26, 2014

Grammy award-winning Carolina Chocolate Drops will perform live at Brooklyn Arts Center on Wednesday, February 26, 2014. Their concerts, The New York Times declared, were “an end-to-end display of excellence... They dip into styles of southern black music from the 1920s and ’30s string- band music, jug-band music, fife and drum, early jazz and beam their curiosity outward. They make short work of their instructive mission and spend their energy on things that require it: flatfoot dancing, jug playing, shouting.” Get your tickets today to experience The Carolina Chocolate Drops live in concert. Call 910-538-2939 for ticket information.

Danielle Snyder
Wilmington NC Events

New Year's Eve in Wilmington NC

Wilmington NC New Year's Eve events feature live music, fireworks, cabaret shows, masquerade events, cruises and more!

Celebrate New Year's Eve in Wilmington, North Carolina! Watch a spectacular fireworks show at the Island of Lights New Year's Celebration, celebrate in style at the Save The Night Masquerade Event, enjoy your champagne toast aboard Henrietta III or enjoy a Broadway Musical at Thalian Hall's New Year's Eve Gala! Where will you celebrate New Year's Eve to ring in 2014?

Visiting from out of town to celebrate New Year's Eve in Wilmington? Stay with one of our local hotel partners!

2013 - 2014 New Year's Eve Events in Wilmington NC:

Island of Lights - New Year's Celebration
December 31, 2013
Celebrate New Year's Eve near the Gazebo at the Carolina Beach Boardwalk! Watch as a giant lighted beach ball drops at midnight and a spectacular fireworks show lights up the sky! This free family-friendly event will feature a DJ and dancing! Refreshments and party favors will be available for purchase. The Island of Lights raffle tradition will continue this year and the winner will take home the original artwork for the Island of Lights 2013 official Christmas card and ornament! Bring the family to Carolina Beach at 9PM to join the festivities!

New Year's Eve - Une Soiree Cabaret!
December 31, 2013 at 6PM and 9:30PM
TheatreNOW is proud to bring you an encore of their hit cabaret show and French tasting meal! Featuring aerial acrobat, can-can dancers, burlesque, comedy, live music and more. Get your tickets for this one-of-kind evening out in the Port City! Tickets are $80 per person or $150 per couple. Call 910-399-3669 for more information.

Save The Night Masquerade Event
December 31, 2013 from 9PM - 1AM
Pop. Fizz. Clink ... to Save the Night! Shine your shoes, put on your finest formal attire and join us at Wilmington's most elegant New Year's Eve Celebration! This Black Tie Masquerade features live music provided by BLP. Masks are optional! Purchase your event tickets today!

New Year's Eve Aboard Henrietta III
December 31, 2013 from 8PM - 1:30AM
Henrietta III presents a spectacular New Year's Eve celebration! Celebrate with a scrumptious buffet of heavy hors d'oeuvres, party favors and a champagne toast! Boarding begins at 8PM and the boat will cruise from 9:30PM to shortly after midnight! The party will continue until 1:30AM. Call 910-343-1611 to purchase your tickets today!

New Year's Eve Gala at Thalian Hall
December 31, 2013
Thalian Hall's New Year's Eve Gala includes dinner, dessert, drinks, a champagne toast and a sensational live performance of the Broadway musical Cabaret by City Stage - one of Wilmington's most respected community theatre ensembles! Bring your friends for an entertaining night of revelry in the theatre, ring in 2014, and come hear music play! Call 910-632-2285 for more details and tickets!

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