Carolina Beach Events - 2020 Schedule

For more than 70 years, the North Carolina Azalea Festival has reigned supreme as one of the biggest and best festivals along the southeast coastline, and newcomers are welcome to join in the fun to experience full days of vendors, live music, parades, and other events that shine a spotlight on the lively city of Wilmington. Founded in 1948, the North Carolina Azalea Festival has emerged as one of the most anticipated events in the state, and the celebration attracts visitors from all over the world who want to discover how enchanting the Cape Fear region can be.

Visiting and local pet fans alike can enjoy a fun stroll, walk, jog or run with their furry best friend by signing up for the Annual paws4people 5K & 1 Mile Fun Walk. This event that is celebrating its 11^th year in 2020 is a fundraiser that supports a great local cause, but which also provides plenty of comradery and good times for all human and canine participants.

Take advantage of an opportunity to see some of the most prestigious and breathtaking gardens in the downtown Wilmington area and beyond with this special tour that coincides with the annual Azalea Festival. The Cape Fear Garden Club Azalea Garden Tour is an annual tour that has been featured in multiple publications like Southern Living magazine, and which introduced garden fans to some of the most stunning landscapes that the Cape Fear area has to offer.

Enjoy an elegant afternoon of delicious sips, great bites, and a little contribution to charity at this annual event that will appeal to anyone with a taste for both local and global flavors. The Oak Island Beach Preservation Society's 21st Annual Winetasting and Auction Fundraiser is an engaging opportunity to meet and mingle with folks around the community, while supporting a local cause and enjoying plenty of fine cuisine and exceptional wines along the way.

Come and lend a hand in keeping one of the Cape Fear coastline’s most iconic landmarks clean during this special day that brings together history buffs and volunteers of all ages. Park Day is an annual event where folks get together to freshen up the Fort Fisher Historic Site in Kure Beach, and are rewarded for their efforts with a sumptuous lunch, a free T-shirt, and a chance to get a closer look at this unique and legendary local site.

Arguably one of the most anticipated corresponding events of the annual North Carolina Azalea Festival, the NC Azalea Festival Historic Home Tour is a rare opportunity to take a peek into both private and public sites in the heart of downtown Wilmington, and to learn more about this historic Port City community. Featuring an array of eye-catching residences that can be admired inside and out, this tour gives an inside look into centuries of local history in an engaging and educational way.

Ring in the Easter holiday with a world of fun for the youngest vacationers in your crew by attending the annual and aptly named Spring Eggventure. Held at the Halyburton Park in Wilmington, which is a beloved spot for exploring the wild terrain of the Cape Fear region, this morning event features an array of games, activities, and a popular Easter Egg hunt to the delight of nature fans of all ages.

You don’t have to be a kid to get a kick out of treasure hunting, and the annual Night Hunt is an Easter-themed event that is designed just for adults. Held at the Leland Municipal Park on the outskirts of Wilmington, this nighttime Easter Egg hunt features live music, food, and plenty of drinks, and is a cool little holiday party that will get the adults in the group in a fun and festive mood.

Celebrate the arrival of warm weather and sunny days along the waterfront with a stop at the always engaging Southport Spring Festival. This two-day festival that takes place in late March features a wealth of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages, and is sure to be a highlight of any getaway to the coastal Cape Fear region.

The small community of Leland on the edges of Wilmington is a great destination for family fun, and newcomers can get into the spirit of this small town by attending the annual Easter Egg Hunt.  Held at the local high school, this Easter Egg Hunt is divvied into multiple age groups to ensure that everyone has a great chance of finding plenty of candy-stuffed and colorful eggs, regardless of age or ability.

Everyone in the family – including the furry family members – can have a blast with an Easter treasure hunt at this annual event that shows how festive and fun the community of Oak Island can be. The Annual Oak Island Easter Egg Hunt features a number of searchers designed for kids of different age groups, and even has a Doggie Eggstravaganza to ensure that everyone in the party can join in the good times.

Let the furry family members have a little holiday fun at this annual event that is sure to be a hit with canines and their human companions alike. The yearly Dog Easter Egg Hunt is a popular and free “Easter Egg” hunt that features an array of doggie-appropriate treats that are scattered and hidden in one of the most popular spots for furry visitors, the Bill Smith Dog Park.

Enjoy an on-foot exploration of the heart of Southport while meeting and mingling with active locals and visitors alike at this event that corresponds with the annual Southport Spring Festival. The Southport-Oak Island Kiwanis 5k Run and Walk is a lightly competitive run / walk to the finish line that winds through the heart of town, and presents plenty of stunning waterfront and area views along the way.

Both kids and adults alike can join in the fun of this Easter Egg hunt which is a challenging evening treasure hunt that will delight attendees of all ages. Held in the heart of Holden Beach, this annual Easter Egg hunt challenges friends and family members to scour the grounds of a popular public park in search of tons of colorful eggs that will be even more hidden when the sun sets.

Food and music lovers will be in a southern culinary paradise at this event that has a focus on great tastes across the board. The Wine & Swine BBQ Cook-off on BBQ Road is a fun annual event that features plenty of music, food, drinks, and more, and which pays homage to Ocean Isle Beach’s inherent love of good BBQ.

Runners, joggers, and walkers of all ages and abilities can explore the scenic coastal landscape of Oak Island while enjoying an invigorating dose of activity at the Oak Island Lighthouse Run/Walk. This annual event features a variety of courses that can range from a 1-mile fun run or walk to a full half marathon, which allows active visitors of all ages to get out and explore in a lightly competitive and all-around fun environment.

Get active while enjoying the start of the beautiful spring and summer weather that the Port City is known for by attending the always fun and highly energized Healthy Kids Day. Celebrating its 9^th year in 2020, this annual event has a focus on getting outside, getting active, and having a ball that will resonate with kids of all ages, and which will show just how much fun exploring Wilmington can be.

Celebrating its 27^th year in 2020, the Pleasure Island Seafood, Blues & Jazz Festival is a weekend-long celebration of great food and fantastic music, with plenty to discover for visitors of all tastes. Featuring two stages that attract nationally recognized blues and jazz musicians from all across the country, this event is a music lover’s dream, and is a perfect opportunity to discover the wealth of flavors that call Kure Beach home.

Celebrate the beauty of Oak Island while learning a little bit about what makes this coastal environment and community so unique at this annual festival that features a range of corresponding events for visitors of all ages. The Oak Island Earth Day Festival showcases a wide array of family and Earth friendly activities, and is a great opportunity to learn how to help the environment, while discovering the gorgeous coastal landscape of Oak Island and the Brunswick Islands.

A visit to a food truck is a great way to explore a wealth of unique flavors and cuisine without breaking the budget, and at the Ogden Park Food Truck Rodeo, hungry attendees can have their fill with a wide array of fare available from multiple vendors. Held at the popular Ogden Park in the heart of Wilmington, this annual event features restaurants and eateries from all across the Cape Fear region, and is a great way to sample all the dining options that the greater Wilmington area has to offer.

Get ready for a run that is decked out in all the colors of the rainbow at this annual race that goes to benefit a local cause. The Tinted Turtle Trot 5K and 1-Mile Run is an engaging event that is infused with plenty of color, and which gives participants a fine opportunity to explore the terrain of Carolina Beach while having a ball with fellow active members of the local community.

Earth Day is a great day to get outside and celebrate the wild Cape Fear landscape, and at this annual guided hike, visitors and locals alike can discover all the amazing things that make the Carolina Beach State Park so special. Winding through a variety of unique habitats and environments, this guided Earth Day Trail Hike is a great opportunity for adventurers of all ages to uncover just how unique the local landscape can be.

Stand up paddleboard (SUP) fans of all ages and abilities will have a ball at the Carolina Cup, which is a multiple day festival and race that celebrates SUP in style. Held at the Blockade Runner Beach Resort in Wrightsville Beach, this unique event features a combination of clinics, expos, and a full line-up of weekend paddleboard competitions that will have all attendees eager to dive into the Cape Fear watersports scene.

Kids of all ages will have a ball while learning a little bit more about our precious planet at the annual Earth Day Celebration which is held in the heart of Wilmington. During this special afternoon event, the Hugh MacRae Park in the central region of the Port City will be transformed into a fun, festival atmosphere complete with exhibits, drinks, food, and live music, which all combine to provide an educational yet entertaining day that kids and adults alike will adore.

The skies over Carolina Beach are brimming with stars and natural wonders, and visitors and locals alike can learn more about this beautiful canopy by attending the Star Party at Carolina Beach State Park. Free and undeniably fun for stargazers of all ages, the Star Party features plenty of events including outdoor shows, telescope viewings, vendors, and other activities to help starry-eyed visitors discover all there is to know about this distinct and always stunning nightly display.

Discover the wild side of Southport at this educational and enlightening annual event that puts the stunning landscapes of coastal North Carolina in the spotlight. NatureFest Southport is a fun event that is held during the spring when the weather is ideal for explorations, and which features a wealth of activities to appeal to visitors of all ages who want to learn more about the local Southport environment.

The elegant Thalian Hall turns a little country during the annual Thalian Hall Bluegrass Bash, which is a fun event that features a wealth of ways to get into the spirit of the music, fun, and activity in the heart of the downtown area. Held on the grounds of Thalian Hall, this fun concert and festival features a wealth of talented musicians from all across the Port City and beyond, as well as plenty of ways to enjoy everything that Wilmington has to offer.

Make the local Port City community a little brighter by signing up to volunteer for the springtime’s Work on Wilmington – an annual event that brings together volunteers and local businesses to do a world of good for the local community. Held at various venues around town that change every year, Work on Wilmington is a great opportunity to help neighbors and friends, and to keep the Port City the shining destination that attracts visitors from all over the world.

Enjoy a full day of feasting, live music, entertainment, games, food, and so much more with a fun-filled stop at the at the Kure Beach Street Festival. This enticing street fair that’s put on every year by the Town of Kure Beach showcases the beauty of this small coastal town, as well as all the fun things that are found in this hopping vacation destination.

Food lovers will have a blast discovering everything that this famed seafood community has to offer at the annual Taste of Calabash. Celebrating its third year in 2018, and quickly becoming one of Calabash’s most popular festivals, this annual event features arts and crafts, children’s activities, music, and plenty of fresh fare to go around, creating a delightful atmosphere that will appeal to everyone in the crew.

Celebrate the arts and culture of southern North Carolina while enjoying a leisurely exploration of one of its most charming inland towns during this annual event that puts local art and music in the spotlight. The Woodsong Porch and Art Stroll is a fun and self-guided tour of the Shallotte art scene, and features a wealth of ways to have fun with more than 20 local artists, food and drink vendors, and live music.

Jump start your Holden Beach spring and summer vacation with this annual festival that provides plenty of good times along the shoreline. The Days at the Dock Festival is an unofficial kick-off to the prime visitor season, and features a wealth of arts and crafts, live music and entertainment, and fun and games for all ages that will make everyone in the family fall in love with the lively and engaging atmosphere of Holden Beach.

Leave the gentlemen at home and enjoy a getaway that’s dedicated to fishing at the WAIT- Women Anglers in Training event. Held in the heart of Oak Island, this two-day seminar is a fun and immersive fishing tutorial that’s just for the ladies, and which will help anglers of all abilities improve their skills and knowledge of fishing along the North Carolina coastline.

Enjoy a relaxed yet decadent evening out with family and friends with this special event that brings a world of flavors to the heart of Ocean Isle Beach. The Wine Fest Fundraiser at Museum of Coastal Carolina features an exceptional range of wines, fresh fare, and other surprises for attendees, and is a fun way to celebrate the spring season along the Brunswick Islands.

Indulge in a city that’s full of great tastes at the annual Wilmington Wine & Food Festival. Partnering with a number of corresponding events, including a Bourbon & BBQ Derby Cocktail Party on Friday and a Bubbles, Brews and Street Eats on Sunday, this multiple day festival celebrates all things delicious in the Port City.

The Cape Fear area is a haven for artists of all varieties, and visitors can explore a wealth of beautifully crafted items and one-of-a-kind artworks and treasures with a visit to the annual Spring Market. Held in the smaller community of Leland, this sprawling open-air market features dozens of artists and crafters from the surrounding area and miles beyond, and is a fine opportunity to uncover the many talented artisans of the Cape Fear region.

Discover the talented artists that call Carolina Beach home while exploring your own creativity through cooking, crafts, and other artful demonstrations and activities at the Carolina Beach Street Arts Festival. This expansive festival that attracts artists, vendors, and visitors from all across the region and beyond is brimming with creative attractions and events that is sure to showcase how colorful and inspiring the Carolina Beach region can be.

There’s a world of fun to discover at the Festival Latino, which is a weekend-long celebration that celebrates a multi-cultural atmosphere with a wealth of food, music, and entertainment. From special activities designed for kids to dancing lessons and live music, this lively event is a great way to discover the unique global flavors and influences that are found right in the heart of the Cape Fear area.

Everyone should experience the joy of surf fishing, and at the Cape Fear Disabled Fishing Tournament, anglers of all varieties can enjoy a full day of fishing and fun at one of the most scenic spots in Kure beach. Held annually in the late spring, when the local fishing season really heats up, this fishing tournament is unique in that it provides a special opportunity for folks with disabilities to see what the Cape Fear fishing scene is all about.

The USS North Carolina Battleship that’s docked along the edge of downtown Wilmington is remarkable in more ways than one, and during this special presentation, visitors will be able to learn about all the important markers this impressive vessel signifies. The Showboat: Battleship Systems and Design event is a unique opportunity to go behind the scenes of this historic vessel, and learn how it became a model for all the battleships that followed.

Explore the beauty of riverfront Wilmington and literally miles beyond by participating in the annual WILMA Dash & Health Fest. This fun event that combines an all-female 5K run and walk with a health and fitness-oriented after party is a great way to ring in the summer season with a focus on friends, fitness, and overall health for visitors and locals alike.

Celebrating its 45th year in 2020, the Rims on the River Car Show has become an annual tradition for area car fans, thanks to its incredible display of vintage rides from all across the globe. Held on the waterfront in the heart of downtown Wilmington, this extensive expo will fascinate car fans of all ages and interests.

Kids of all ages can discover how much fun life on the farm can be with this entertaining and educational event that is held at the Children’s Museum of Wilmington. During Family Farm Day, kids can meet and greet with local barnyard residents of all varieties, and enjoy plenty of activities that pay homage to the important roles that farms play in everyday life.

Go behind the scenes of one of the most famous attractions along the Cape Fear River with this in-depth tour of Wilmington’s most treasured landmark, the USS Battleship North Carolina. This special one-afternoon-only tour takes participants deep into the depths of the ship, and is an illuminating look into one of the most famous battleships of the World War II era.

Challenge your swimming skills in one of the largest swimming holes in the world with this annual race that features a watery course in between two iconic fishing piers. The Pier-To-Pier Swim is a lightly competitive outing that features a roughly two-mile swim in between the Johnnie Mercers Pier and the Crystal Pier, and which is sure to be an exciting event for participants and springtime visitors alike.

Going strong for more than 20 years, the Annual Orange Street ArtsFest is a great way for newcomers to discover the myriad of talented artists who live, work and thrive in the coastal Cape Fear region. Featuring dozens of artists, live entertainment, food, and many more enticements, this annual festival that celebrates its 25th year in 2020 is a must for art lovers everywhere.

Memorial Day on Bald Head Island is a true celebration that will introduce newcomers and longtime vacationers alike to all the amazing things to do and see in this island community. Known as the official kick-off to the summer season, the Memorial Day Weekend Celebration features a wealth of hikes, watersports, art-centric events, and plenty of good food and great times to encourage everyone to escape to the beach and join in the fun.

Head to the deck of one of the most famous landmarks in coastal North Carolina for a Memorial Day observance ceremony that won’t soon be forgotten. The Battleship North Carolina Memorial Day observance is an annual event that pays tributes to the men and women who bravely served our country, and which features a patriotic service on board one of the most impressive American battleships to sail the seas.

Honor the veterans and military members of the community of Southport and all across the country at this annual event that pays tribute to American heroes. The Memorial Day Observance and Parade is a celebrated annual event that takes place in the heart of downtown Southport, and which is open to anyone who wants to show their appreciation for our military members.

Memorial Day on Bald Head Island is a true celebration that will introduce newcomers and longtime vacationers alike to all the amazing things to do and see in this island community. Known as the official kick-off to the summer season, the Memorial Day Weekend Celebration features a wealth of hikes, watersports, art-centric events, and plenty of good food and great times to encourage everyone to escape to the beach and join in the fun.

Head to the heart of Wrightsville Beach for this popular fishing tournament that will thrill participants and spectators alike. The annual Cape Fear Blue Marlin Tournament features multiple days of exceptional fishing, as well as an opportunity for visitors to learn about the conservation, protection, and preservation of valuable marine resources.

A world of flavor and fun is waiting at the Wilmington Greek Festival, which is one of the most unique and anticipated global events of the year in the Cape Fear region. Featuring an abundance of authentic food, music, dancing and more, this weekend-long festival is a fun way to discover the Greek culture while enjoying an engaging time that will delight family members of all ages.

Going strong for more than 30 years, the Carolina Beach Music Festival ushers in the summer season with a full day and night of great music that is just steps away from the sand. Billed as the "the biggest and only beach music festival actually held on the beach on the North Carolina coast" by the Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce, this annual festival is a great way to experience the sights, sounds, and all-around fun of this popular beach town while enjoying some great music along the way.

North Carolina, and specifically Bald Head Island, is renowned for a wealth of treasures including historical sites and landmarks, a vibrant cultural scene, and plenty of unique things to eat and drink, and visitors can experience all of these treasures and more at the annual North Carolina Treasures Weekend. Traditionally held in early June, this weekend is a toast to the wonderful things that Bald Head Island has to offer, and features a wealth of food, art, history, and spirits to please everyone in the party.

Bring the family for this annual tournament that shines a spotlight on how much fun fishing in Ocean Isle Beach can be. The Jolly Mon King Classic fishing tournament brings together fishermen and their families for plenty of good times, good fun, and exceptional fishing. Offering a far-reaching array of great prizes that can range from gift cards to thousands of dollars in cash, this tournament is a fun and competitive way to discover the fruitful fishing along the Brunswick Islands.

The Cape Fear Blues Festival is quickly becoming one of the most anticipated music festivals of the summer season in North Carolina, and newcomers will find plenty of reasons to celebrate at this multiple-day event that has plenty of soul. Featuring local musicians as well as national headliners, the annual Cape Fear Blues Festival lights up the town with plenty of great music at multiple venues, and ample fun to go around for music fans everywhere.

The offshore fishing starts to heat up off the coast of the Cape Fear region as the summer season gets into full swing, and anglers who want to enjoy the action, (and hopefully take home some cash prizes along the way), can join in the fun by signing up for the Wide Open Tech Spanish Mackerel Open. Held in mid-June, this fishing tournament that’s open to just 50 teams or so is a great way to enjoy a little camaraderie and some exceptional fishing while exploring the sunny waters off the coast of Wrightsville Beach.

Renowned as the first “Formula 1” or super-sprint style of triathlons in the nation, the Carolina Beach Double Sprint Triathlon is a USAT sanctioned event that will thrill participants and spectators alike. Featuring an ocean swim, bike ride, and a 1.5 mile run, this annual competition tests limits across the board, while allowing participants to discover the best of Carolina Beach and miles beyond.

Let the youngest anglers in the crew enjoy a special fishing tournament that’s designed just for them with this annual event that ties in with the annual Jolly Mon King Classic. The Jr. Jolly Mon - Rock the Dock event is for anglers who might be too young to compete in the big multiple day tournament, but who still want to drop a line and discover just how much fun fishing can be.

Celebrate fly flag by flying your own colors on board one of the biggest landmarks in downtown Wilmington with this special event that combines history and patriotism with ease. The annual Flag Day at Battleship NC is a prime opportunity to celebrate the holiday while exploring one of the most impressive battleships to come out of the WWII era.

The Cape Fear area and Wilmington in particular is known as the “Hollywood of the South” due to its massive movie studios and many productions, and movie fans can explore this inherent star quality in depth by attending the annual Cape Fear Independent Film Festival. Showcasing films from regional, national, and international artists, this unique multiple day festival is a great way to discover talented new filmmakers while exploring Wilmington’s inherent love of film.

The annual U.S. Sailing Youth Championship is coming close to home for Cape Fear mariners, and participants and spectators alike will find plenty of reasons to cheer at this annual event. Held at the Carolina Yacht Club at Wrightsville Beach, this annual competition is an exciting sporting event that features top young sailors from around the country in a challenging race that circles the beautiful Cape Fear coastline.

Foodies and all visitors with exceptional taste will have a ball at the Wilmington VegFest, which is a celebration of all things fresh and delicious that correspond with the vegan lifestyle. Featuring cooking demonstrations, guest speakers, dozens of vendors, and plenty of food trucks, this event is brimming with flavorful ways to eat well, and eat wonderfully.

Revered as one of the oldest Independence Day celebrations in the state, the North Carolina 4th of July Festival is a big event that attracts visitors from all along the coastline and miles beyond to the charming town of Southport. Boasting a parade, a fair-style collection of vendors, a myriad of shows and activities, and a stunning display of fireworks over the water, this annual event lives up to its reputations as one of the most beloved 4^th of July celebrations on the coast.

Revered as one of the oldest Independence Day celebrations in the state, the North Carolina 4th of July Festival is a big event that attracts visitors from all along the coastline and miles beyond to the charming town of Southport. Boasting a parade, a fair-style collection of vendors, a myriad of shows and activities, and a stunning display of fireworks over the water, this annual event lives up to its reputations as one of the most beloved 4^th of July celebrations on the coast.

There’s plenty of ways to have fun along the coast at the annual NC 4th of July Festival Beach Day – a celebration that takes place in the heart of Oak Island. Held in conjunction with Southport’s 4^th of July Festival, which is one of the largest Independence Day celebrations in the state, this event features tons of games, activities, contests, and even live music and dancing, to create a festive 4^th of Juy that visitors won’t soon forget.

The Fourth of July is easily one of the most festive days on Bald Head Island, and visitors can join in the fun with a wide array of activities that are found around town. The annual Bald Head Island Fourth of July Celebration is packed with tours, games, food, and fun – as well as a famed annual parade – and is a great way to truly enjoy everything this island community has to offer.

Summer is a fine time to drop a line in Carolina Beach, and during this annual fishing tournament, visiting anglers can discover just how much fun the local fishing scene can be while having a chance at landing some incredible prizes. The Coast Got-Em-On King Mackerel Classic is held over the course of a July weekend, and it features plenty of activities, comradery, and of course, plenty of exceptional fishing along the Cape Fear coastline.

Head to the shorelines of Wrightsville Beach – one of the most popular surfing destinations in southern North Carolina – for this annual tournament that has become one of the most anticipated regional surfing events of the year. The O'Neill/ Sweetwater Pro-Am has grown over the years into one of the biggest surfing tournaments in North Carolina and along the East Coast, and spectators can catch an incredible show as they watch dozens of amateur and professional surfers from all around the world show their stuff on the local waves.

An annual tradition for more than 25 years, the Oak Island Art Guild Arts & Craft Festival is a fantastic way for visitors to discover all the talented artists and craftsmen who call this coastal corner of North Carolina home. Held in the heart of town, the festival attracts more than 100 artists and vendors who bring along distinctive wares that are both eye catching and truly one-of-a-kind.

Labor Day weekend on Bald Head Island is truly a celebration, and the annual Labor Day Cookout offers a lot more besides a chance to feast on burgers and beachy fare. With corresponding activities and events held all along the island, and plenty of unique attractions to discover along the way, the annual celebration is a prime opportunity to uncover everything this popular North Carolina vacation destination has to offer.

Labor Day weekend on Bald Head Island is truly a celebration, and the annual Labor Day Cookout offers a lot more besides a chance to feast on burgers and beachy fare. With corresponding activities and events held all along the island, and plenty of unique attractions to discover along the way, the annual celebration is a prime opportunity to uncover everything this popular North Carolina vacation destination has to offer.

Anglers can explore the exceptional fishing of the Carolina Beach inshore waters while hopefully cashing in on some attractive prizes at this annual tournament that reels in local and visiting anglers alike. The Carolina Beach Inshore Challenge is a fun and full-day fishing tournament that targets the waters of Carolina Beach Inlet and beyond to reel in some big rewards.

Both spectators and mariners will have a ball at this colorful celebration that celebrates life on the water in Carolina Beach. The Dragon Boat Regatta & Festival is a fun-filled weakened event that includes plenty of food and entertainment, and a competitive but family-friendly race in the cool waters of the Cape Fear region.

Shoppers and sightseers can discover a world of goodies while taking in some of the most enticing scenery that Wilmington has to offer with a stop at the annual American Craft Walk. Held in the fall, this popular event features a wealth of local and regional artisans and craftsmen who are selling their wares in the heart of the downtown area.

The fall season is prime time when it comes to exceptional fishing, and anglers of all varieties can get their lines wet by participating in the U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament. Based at the local Southport Marina and featuring tons of prizes for anglers who sign up every year, this multiple day fishing tournament is a great way to explore the expansive waters of the Cape Fear region while landing in some big cash prizes along the way.

Second only to the springtime Azalea Festival in terms of size, activities and attendance, the annual Riverfest is an all-encompassing festival that celebrates life by the water. Featuring a lineup of events that include exhibits, vendors, competitions, kid activities, fireworks, and so much more, this family-friendly event ignites the Wilmington downtown area with miles of fun to go around.

Celebrating its 27^th year in 2020, the annual Bark in the Park is a playful competition that pits high flying canines of all varieties in a number of competitions that will delight participants and their human spectators alike. Featuring a number of activities, and absolutely free to the public, Bark in the Park is a great outing for family members of all varieties, and especially the furry ones who love to make new friends and show off their stuff at one of the coolest parks in Wrightsville Beach.

Wilmington is known as the “Port City” for a reason, and lifelong local mariners and visitors alike can celebrate this heritage with a stop at the Wilmington Boat Show. Featuring multiple events throughout town over the course of several days, this sprawling event features plenty of ways to discover the past, present, and future of Wilmington’s life along the water.

October is prime fishing time on the coastline of North Carolina, and visitors can join in the fun and enjoy a little competition with big potential prizes at the annual Pleasure Island Surf Fishing Challenge. Known as one of the best land-based surf fishing tournaments on the beach, this annual competition is a great way to enjoy the fantastic fall fishing while potentially scoring thousands of dollars in cash and prizes.

Known as one of the most-watched and most intense competitions in the Cape Fear area and miles beyond, the Ironman 70.3 North Carolina puts athletes of all ages to the test with an incredible course that requires endurance and massive feasts of strength. Featuring a swim, bike ride, and run, this "point-to-point-to-point-to-point" event will wow spectators from all across the Cape Fear region with its incredible course, and incredible athletes who participate.

Hungry visitors will want to bring along a big appetite for the North Carolina Oyster Festival, which is a popular annual event that offers a whole lot more than the staple shellfish. Featuring everything from BBQ and pizza, to music, arts, and crafts, this extensive festival has plenty of ways to delight attendees of all tastes, and of all ages.

Calling all brew fans – the Voracious Rare Beer Festival is the prime opportunity to discover a world of new flavors without ever leaving the heart of downtown Wilmington. Appropriately held in the month of October, this annual festival features plenty of great tastes to go around, with dozens of participating breweries and eateries, and ample reasons to raise a pint and toast the town.

The world of hops, grapes and grains is at your fingertips at the annual Lighthouse Beer & Wine Festival – a fun event that features plenty of delectable tastes from the Cape Fear area and miles beyond. Held at the North Waterfront Park in the heart of Wilmington, this full afternoon-long festival features more than 100 craft breweries and wineries to discover, making it one of the most anticipated events for wine and beer lovers throughout the North Carolina coastline.

Well known as one of the longest running events in the Port City area, the annual Cape Fear Fair & Expo has been going strong for decades, and is one of the most fun celebrations that the town of Wilmington has to offer. Taking over the grounds of the Wilmington Airport, this expansive festival features rides, exhibits, food, shows, and entertainment al all varieties to create a truly memorable experience for fun-loving visitors of all varieties.

Well known as one of the longest running events in the Port City area, the annual Cape Fear Fair & Expo has been going strong for decades, and is one of the most fun celebrations that the town of Wilmington has to offer. Taking over the grounds of the Wilmington Airport, this expansive festival features rides, exhibits, food, shows, and entertainment al all varieties to create a truly memorable experience for fun-loving visitors of all varieties.

Ties up your laces and get ready for one of the biggest running and fitness events that the Cape Fear area has to offer! The annual Battleship Half Marathon, 10K and 5K is a popular running event that attracts active visitors from all across the county and beyond, and which provides a perfect opportunity to explore the local landscape of the southern N.C. coastline while enjoying a little competitive fun.

With fall winds at their peak, the annual Cape Fear Kite Festival is a fantastic opportunity for visitors to be awed by a colorful display of kites of all varieties. Held at the Fort Fisher State Recreation Area on the Cape Fear coastline, this impressive event is always a crowd pleaser, with an unforgettable overhead show that will make everyone look to the skies.

Water lovers of all ages and all varieties will have a ball exploring the fun and educational Southport Wooden Boat Show. Held in the peak of fall, this annual celebration brings together talented boat makers and mariners to showcase a stunning display of wooden boats, while providing a little history on Southport’s maritime heritage and life on the water.

Get a jump start on acquiring everything you’ll need to ring in the holiday season with style with a visit to the annual Holly Days Arts & Crafts Sale at the Southport Baptist Church. This fun and annual celebration features a host of goodies that are truly one-of-a-kind, and which will be a delight to any lucky recipient on Christmas morning.

The Cape Fear region is a unique coastal community that’s known for its variety of global influences, and visitors can get a first-hand look at this worldly flavor by attending the annual Polish Festival. Held in the smaller region of Castle Hayne, this family-oriented and fun festival features a wealth of food, music, arts and crafts, beverages, and more to provide a hefty sampling of everything this distinctive culture and heritage has to offer.

The Cucalorus Film Festival has been going strong for 25 years, and this annual film festival is well known as one of the biggest and best of its kind in the Cape Fear region and well beyond. Renowned as one of the largest film festivals in the southern United States, this multiple day event features a wealth of films, shorts, live entertainment, music, and many more ways to celebrate Wilmington’s reputation as the Hollywood of the East Coast.

The Cape Fear area has its own unique style when it comes to food and fun, and visitors can get a big helping of this food-centric atmosphere by attending the annual Taste of Wrightsville Beach. Celebrating its 8^th year in 2020, this festival that is perpetually growing in popularity features dozens of samples, tastings, contests, and more, which allows newcomers to dive into the local Wrightsville Beach food scene with gusto.

Start the holiday season with style and plenty of community spirit by attending the annual Downtown Holiday Tree Lighting in the heart of Wilmington. This annual event is a community celebration that features plenty of music, refreshments, and a glittering tree lighting, and is a great opener to the festive spirit of Wilmington during the holidays.

Ring in the holiday season with this magical display of lights, greenery, and gorgeous local scenery with this month-long event that brings plenty of spirit to the season. The Enchanted Airlie celebration is an opportunity to discover how beautiful and glittering this beloved local landmark can be during the holidays, thanks to a dazzling array of lights, and plenty of activities that will leave young and old visitors alike grinning from ear to ear.

Serving as a cornerstone of the annual NC Holiday Flotilla, the Wrightsville Beach Festival in the Park is a great opportunity for visitors to explore just how much fun this coastal town can be when the holiday season is in full swing. With a fair-like atmosphere and plenty of activities to entertainment both children and parents alike, this full-day festival is a great way to get out and enjoy a little fun while celebrating the excitement of the holidays.

Get a jumpstart to your holiday celebrations with this annual event that is always a crowd pleaser for visitors and local Cape Fear residents like, The NC Holiday Flotilla at Wrightsville Beach is an enchanting evening that combines holiday celebrations with the allure of the coastline, courtesy of a festive boat parade, fireworks, and so much more.

Ring in the holiday season with this magical display of lights, greenery, and gorgeous local scenery with this month-long event that brings plenty of spirit to the season. The Enchanted Airlie celebration is an opportunity to discover how beautiful and glittering this beloved local landmark can be during the holidays, thanks to a dazzling array of lights, and plenty of activities that will leave young and old visitors alike grinning from ear to ear.

Head to one of the Cape Fear region’s most charming and historic destinations just north of the Wilmington city limits for this annual event that adds a little extra sparkle and fun to the holiday season. A Merry Little Christmas Festival is held at the Poplar Grove Plantation, and is a fun-filled celebration that will delight visitors of all ages with a host of holiday activities and events.

The small coastal town of Oak Island has a big dose of holiday spirit, and visitors can ring in the Christmas season in style by cheering on the annual Christmas by the Sea Parade. Held in the heart of town, this annual event that features the efforts of local businesses and celebrations is a merry way to enjoy the coastal community while starting off the holiday season with plenty of cheer.

Well known as one of the tastiest events to correspond with the annual Southport Winterfest, the State Port Pilot Annual Cookie Contest is a great opportunity to show off your baking skills, or just enjoy a heavy and delicious dose of these holiday staples. Always drawing a crowd of local bakers and tasters alike, this fun event is brimming with great taste for hungry folks of all ages.

Ring in the holiday season with this magical display of lights, greenery, and gorgeous local scenery with this month-long event that brings plenty of spirit to the season. The Enchanted Airlie celebration is an opportunity to discover how beautiful and glittering this beloved local landmark can be during the holidays, thanks to a dazzling array of lights, and plenty of activities that will leave young and old visitors alike grinning from ear to ear.

Ring in the holiday season with this magical display of lights, greenery, and gorgeous local scenery with this month-long event that brings plenty of spirit to the season. The Enchanted Airlie celebration is an opportunity to discover how beautiful and glittering this beloved local landmark can be during the holidays, thanks to a dazzling array of lights, and plenty of activities that will leave young and old visitors alike grinning from ear to ear.

Ring in the holiday season with this magical display of lights, greenery, and gorgeous local scenery with this month-long event that brings plenty of spirit to the season. The Enchanted Airlie celebration is an opportunity to discover how beautiful and glittering this beloved local landmark can be during the holidays, thanks to a dazzling array of lights, and plenty of activities that will leave young and old visitors alike grinning from ear to ear.

Discover one of the prettiest regions of the coastal Cape Fear area with this annual event that always attracts runners, walkers and joggers from all across the region and well beyond. The Carolina Beach State Park Half Marathon & 5K is a fun and yet competitive race that features some of the best scenery on the beach, and which is open to visitors of all ages and abilities.