October 10th

A Day to Remember

Tournament Format: Coed 4-person

Organization: A Day to Remember is celebrating 23 years of fundraising for individuals and families impacted by Alzheimer’s and Dementia. Proceeds from the tournament and raffle are donated to the New Hanover County Senior Center for Alzheimer’s and Dementia related programs. This tournament is held in Memory of William H. Musser, also foundly known around here as “Capt’n Bill”.

Oyster Eco Tour is an immersive coastal farm experience hosted by Hold Fast Oyster Co. in the waters near North Topsail, North Carolina. Guests start with a boat ride through local estuaries, then stop at a floating oyster setup to learn how oysters are grown and why sustainable aquaculture matters for healthy coastal ecosystems.

The tour is designed to be hands-on and interactive: you’ll see the farming gear up close, hear how tides and daily farm work shape the harvest, and get guidance from the farmers themselves. A signature part of the experience is shucking and tasting oysters that have been pulled from the water moments before, often paired with time wading out to a private sandbar for a barefoot, on-the-water adventure vibe.

It’s a good fit for seafood enthusiasts, eco-tourists, and curious travelers who want a behind-the-scenes look at regenerative aquaculture. Guests are typically encouraged to bring their own beverages while licensing is pending.

🌾 Grain to Oven Discovery

📅 Monday, October 5

🕥 10:30 AM–12:30 PM

💲 $25 per participant (ages 5+) making a pizza

👶 Ages 4 & under FREE

Celebrate the harvest season by discovering how wheat becomes fresh flour before making your own pizza. This interactive experience combines agriculture, science, history, and delicious fun.

REGISTER FOR OCTOBER 5th HERE!

The patch will officially open on Thursday, October 1 and will be open 7 days a week from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. After you pick out the perfect pumpkin, stick around for live music all October long on Thursdays and Fridays on the pier. Check their schedule of events at @carolinabeachpier for the most up-to-date info.

Create a one-of-a-kind mixed media canvas inspired by the Cape Fear River. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a sunset to inspire your work. All supplies will be provided, including canvases, tools, textiles, sponges and more. No experience is needed, and all ages are welcome. Registration is required here.

Meet the fierce, fearless, and legendary women who shaped Wilmington's colorful history—from rebels and revolutionaries to champions and legends. Their stories are funny, inspiring, and 100% true. Join us for this leisurely 90-minute walking tour of Historic Downtown Wilmington.

30-year resident Steven S. Little has led more than 500 local tours in just the last 3 years. This tour goes well-beyond the familiar landmarks to uncover remarkable lives too often left out of the history books. Perfect for locals and visitors alike.

Here are just some of the women you'll meet:

• The Spy and Her Final Voyage — A celebrated socialite risks everything for "the cause," but fate had other plans.

• The Woman Without a Name — An ordinary woman becomes an unwilling witness to the day Wilmington changed forever.

• The Two Elizabeths of the Port City — Two women from two different worlds become forever linked by one extraordinary mansion.

• The Undisputed World Champion - The remarkable woman who shattered barriers, capturing one of the world's most coveted titles.

Read more about - Badass Women of Old Wilmington A Historic Walking Tour

Join us every Monday at 6:00pm for a fun run or walk through downtown (3-mile & 5-mile routes) to kick-start your week! The run starts and finishes at Hi-Wire Brewing's Wilmington taproom!

If you join us on 6 or more Monday runs, you'll get a free "Will Run For Hi-Wire Beer" t-shirt from Brooks, and after 12 runs, you'll get a gift card to Hi-Wire! Come and knock out some miles, enjoy a beer, and have a little fun on your Monday night!

Music Bingo is tonight! Join us every Tuesday at 7pm here at Lazy Pirate for a fun time

Movie Night in the Patch

We're creating a cozy movie night in our beach pumpkin patch every Tuesday night this fall!

Save the dates! More details will be added to this event closer to the dates.

Rock Icons…The Doobie Brothers are coming to Live Oak Bank Pavilion Wilmington on 10/6 for the Walk This Road Tour!

The Doobie Brothers have produced some of classic rock’s most memorable hits. From the polished rock sound of “What a Fool Believes” — a No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 and ranked by Rolling Stone Australia as one of the greatest songs ever — to the feel-good harmonies of “Listen to the Music,” The Doobie Brothers’ more than five-decade run has made them one of the preeminent live bands to see. Since their debut album in 1971, The Doobie Brothers have won two Grammy Awards, landed eight albums in the Top 10 on the Billboard 200, been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and sold nearly 50 million albums worldwide. The band has showcased their 14 gold-album repertoire on a globetrotting 50th anniversary tour that began in 2021 with the reunited lineup of Pat Simmons, Tom Johnston, Michael McDonald and John McFee playing together for the first time in nearly 25 years. In June 2025, the band released their sixteenth studio album Walk This Road, which featured the reunited Doobie Brothers line up of Patirck Simmons, Tom Johnson, John McFe and Michael McDonald.

The Doobie Brothers: Walk This Road Tour

Tue • Oct 06, 2026 • 8:00 PMLive Oak Bank Pavilion, Wilmington, NC

The Doobie Brothers have produced some of classic rock’s most memorable hits. From the polished rock sound of “What a Fool Believes” — a No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 and ranked by Rolling Stone Australia as one of the greatest songs ever — to the feel-good harmonies of “Listen to the Music,” The Doobie Brothers’ more than five-decade run has made them one of the preeminent live bands to see. Since their debut album in 1971, The Doobie Brothers have won two Grammy Awards, landed eight albums in the Top 10 on the Billboard 200, been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and sold nearly 50 million albums worldwide. The band has showcased their 14 gold-album repertoire on a globetrotting 50th anniversary tour that began in 2021 with the reunited lineup of Pat Simmons, Tom Johnston, Michael McDonald and John McFee playing together for the first time in nearly 25 years. In June 2025, the band released their sixteenth studio album Walk This Road, which featured the reunited Doobie Brothers line up of Patirck Simmons, Tom Johnson, John McFe and Michael McDonald.

Experience the breathtaking beauty of a Wrightsville Beach sunset aboard our exclusive harbor cruise. As the sun dips below the horizon, casting vibrant hues across the sky, you'll be treated to a serene and picturesque journey through the harbor's tranquil waters. Our knowledgeable crew ensures a smooth and enjoyable ride, making this cruise perfect for families, couples, or solo adventurers seeking a peaceful escape. With the gentle sea breeze and the soothing sound of the waves, this cruise offers a unique opportunity to unwind and connect with nature. Whether you're capturing stunning photographs or simply soaking in the moment, the Wrightsville Beach Harbor Sunset Cruise promises an unforgettable evening on the water.

Sit down with Ashlyn Aquarius for tarot & oracle card readings on the first Wednesday of every month starting at 6pm!

Readings start at $20 and are first come, first served in 15 minute increments. Get your name on the sign-up sheet starting at 6pm. Longer sessions are also available if you sign up for multiple time slots in a row.

Join us every Wednesday in the Boatyard for Trivia with RJ, happening weekly through October 14th. Marina Grill presents an evening on the riverfront featuring an outdoor bar, select food offerings, and a lively trivia competition beginning at 6:30 pm!

🎉 FREE EVENT 🎉

📍 Location: The Boatyard | Behind Marina Grill and Port City Marina | 10 Harnett St, Wilmington, NC

🗓️ Date: Every Thursday

⏰ Time: 6:30 PM

We are a market that promotes regenerative agriculture. Every single one of our farmers practice some aspect of regenerative farming.

It's a unique opportunity to be able to meet, know, and support the people who raise your food. We want to get back to these practices.

Come shop the market and support the people who work to provide your family with healthy food options, all while farming with practices that give back to the land.

Every Thursday 4-7PM

Trampled By Turtles

Thu • Oct 08, 2026 • 6:00 PMGreenfield Lake Amphitheater, Wilmington, NC

Trampled by Turtles are from Duluth, Minnesota, where frontman Dave Simonett initially formed the group as a side project in 2003. At the time, Simonett had lost most of his music gear, thanks to a group of enterprising car thieves who'd ransacked his vehicle while he played a show with his previous band. Left with nothing more than an acoustic guitar, he began piecing together a new band, this time taking inspiration from bluegrass, folk, and other genres that didn't rely on amplification. Simonett hadn't played any bluegrass music before, and he filled his lineup with other newcomers to the genre, including fiddler Ryan Young (who'd previously played drums in a speed metal act) and bassist Tim Saxhaug. Along with mandolinist Erik Berry and banjo player Dave Carroll, the group began carving out a fast, frenetic sound that owed as much to rock & roll as bluegrass.

Trampled by Turtles released their first record, Songs from a Ghost Town, in 2004. In a genre steeped in tradition, the album stood out for its contemporary sound, essentially bridging the gap between the bandmates' background in rock music and their new acoustic leanings. Blue Sky and the Devil (2005) and Trouble (2007) explored a similar sound, but it wasn't until 2008 and the band's fourth release, Duluth, that Trampled by Turtles received recognition by the bluegrass community. Duluth peaked at number eight on the Billboard bluegrass chart and paved the way for a number of festival appearances. When Palomino arrived in 2010, it was met with an even greater response, debuting at the top of the bluegrass chart and remaining in the Top Ten for more than a year. Two years later, their crossover appeal landed them at number 32 on the Billboard 200 pop charts upon the release of their sixth album, Stars and Satellites. In addition to major bluegrass and folk festivals, they began showing up at Coachella, ACL Fest, and Lollapalooza. The official concert album, Live at First Avenue, followed in 2013, recorded at Minnesota's most famous venue. A year later, the band returned with the darker-toned Wild Animals, which bettered its studio predecessor on the album charts, reaching number 29 on Billboard. Countless tours, playing venues like the Buckhead Theatre in Atlanta, with bands like Lord Huron, Wilco, Caamp, Mt Joy and Deer Tick to name a few have followed. 2022 will see the release of the band's latest body of work called Alpenglow which was produced by Jeff Tweedy of Wilco.

🍂 Fourth Annual Blankets & Bonfires Music Series 🔥

Beach autumn nights are returning to Carolina Beach Pier!

Join us for our Blankets & Bonfires Music Series, happening every Thursday & Friday evening this fall.

✨ More details—including event times, entertainment, food & drink offerings, and other important information—will be added to this event approximately two weeks before each music date.

🌦 Weather Notice: This event takes place outdoors in our beach pumpkin patch and is weather dependent. If plans need to change due to the weather, we'll post updates right here in this event.

📧 Have questions? Feel free to email us anytime at info@cbpier.com

Our local Hanover Kennel Club's annual all-breed dog shows! Hanover Kennel Club will be hosting their 130th and 131st all-breed dog shows on October 10th and 11th. Joining us this year is the Mid-Atlantic Hound Association with two hound specialties on Friday, October 9th plus one concurrent hound breed specialty each day on Saturday and Sunday.

It is FREE to spectate. Bleachers will be on the premises for seating, or bring your own seating. Please leave un-entered dogs at home.

Step into history with a guided tour of Boundless, a life-size bronze sculpture by artist Stephen Hayes. Located in PNC USCT Park on CAM’s grounds, this striking monument honors the legacy of the United States Colored Troops (USCT)—the brave soldiers who fought in the Battle of Forks Road during the Civil War in 1865.

The sculpture was created from casts of the features of 11 African American men connected to the site and its story – USCT descendants, re-enactors, veterans, and community leaders. Boundless was unveiled on November 13, 2021, and is on permanent view in the PNC USCT Park on the museum grounds. The sculpture is deeply connected to our community’s history, present, and future.

When: Every Friday from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM. Free with museum admission.

Your tour will be led by one of our knowledgeable tour guides.

Learn more about Boundless and the PNC USCT Park here.

Twilight Under the Stars | A Three-Part Twilight Movie SerieS

Step into the world of Forks for Twilight Under the Stars, a three-night outdoor movie series celebrating the beloved Twilight Saga. Hosted by Luma × The Collective, this immersive fall experience blends nostalgic movie nights with cozy autumn vibes, themed drinks, boutique shopping, interactive activities, and a welcoming community of fellow Twilight fans.

Whether you’re joining us for a single evening or experiencing the entire saga, you’ll enjoy unforgettable nights under the stars filled with laughter, nostalgia, and a little bit of vampire magic.

Series Dates

• 🌙 October 2: Twilight

• 🌙 October 9: New Moon

• 🌙 October 16: Eclipse

This event is 16+, limited to 50 guests, and designed to create an intimate, immersive experience. Grab your favorite flannel, choose your team, and get ready for one of the coziest events of the fall season.

Ditch the grocery aisle! Wilmington Farmers Market offers fresh, local produce, meats, and more every Saturday. Support local, eat fresh! Details on social media about vendors

Beach Yoga (April - November)

Beach yoga is great for all levels. We meet on the beach at the Ocean Front Park Beach access just north of the Kure Beach Pier. The GPS address for the beach access is 110 Atlantic Avenue. Bring your own beach towel to enjoy an all levels yoga flow class on the beach. Breathe in the breath of the ocean, stretch, strengthen, and enjoy our beautiful beach with the soundtrack of the waves crashing to shore.

Opening Day is April 18th!

Join us in celebrating our 23rd season as the heartbeat of Downtown Wilmington, where community and local flavor come together. We are dedicated to bringing you the freshest, locally grown produce, pasture-to-plate meats, farm-fresh eggs, and an array of delightful treats including local honey, roasted coffee, chocolates, fresh bread, muffins, cakes, jams and so much more.

We are a treasure trove of unique, handcrafted items from talented local artisans, ensuring that every visit reveals something special. We invite you to be a part of this cherished Wilmington tradition, where pride in our local culture and commitment to agricultural sustainability shine brightly. Come and discover the flavors of our community.

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• Located on Dock St. between 2nd St and Water St.

• Every Saturday, 8:00am – 1:00pm (rain or shine)

• Admission is free.

• Leashed pets welcome

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Thank you: Cumulus Media & Excite Credit Union

Make a tangible impact in our community by helping to maintain the peaceful grounds of historic Maides Cemetery. If you love spending time outdoors, working with your hands, and giving back to local history, this opportunity is for you.

Key Responsibilities:

• Debris Removal: Pick up trash, fallen branches, and leaves across the grounds.
• Grounds Maintenance: Weed whacking around headstones, fencing, and walkways.
• Vegetation Care: Prune overgrown bushes, low-hanging branches, and invasive vines.
• General Beautification: Assist with light landscaping and general site cleanup to keep the cemetery respectful and well-maintained.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Comfort working outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Physical capability to bend, lift, rake, and operate light yard equipment.
• A respectful attitude toward the cemetery grounds and community history.

Equipment & Tools

• BYO Tools Encouraged: If you own a weed whacker, pruners, work gloves, rakes, or general gardening tools, please bring them along!
• On-site tools and supplies will be available for those who do not have their own.

What to Wear & Bring

• Sturdy, closed-toe shoes or work boots.
• Durable work gloves.
• Weather-appropriate clothing you don't mind getting dirty.
• A water bottle and sun protection (hat, sunscreen).

Get to Know the Cape Fear’s Most Enduring Legends with This Special Cruise Charting the Stories That Don’t Always Get Told!

From the tunnels underneath the city to the colonial imposter who tempted fate by claiming to be royal, this cruise will traverse the last 250 years of local history to get at the heart of what’s fact and what’s fiction. Were rum runners captured on the river during Prohibition? Did Cornwallis occupy a downtown house and let his soldiers crash on the property while keeping Patriot prisoners in the basement? Hunter Ingram, historian at Burgwin-Wright House, will share these stories and more.

Our boat, The Wilmington, has comfortable seating for up to 49 passengers, refreshments for all ages at the bar and a restroom on board. This is a 90 minute cruise $40 adults, $20 children. Boarding is 15 minutes prior to departure.

Art in the Arboretum returns October 10–11, 2026, from 10 AM–4 PM each day. Join the Friends of the Arboretum for a weekend of art, nature, and community. Join us for our 30th year!

The Fire in the Pines festival focuses on environmental education and highlights the importance of fire on our native, longleaf pine forests. This free to attend event is open the public and has something for everyone!

Kids activities including crafts, games, and educational opportunities

Fire equipment, including multiple fire trucks, a bulldozer, a marshmaster and more!

Hay-rides throughout the park

Fire, nature, and other conservation related tables and displays

Live music by Folkstone Stringband

Food trucks

Entertainment including jugglers and honey sampling!

And for the finale, a live fire demonstration!

Parking is located at LifePoint Church (on College and 17th St) and a free trolley is available for a ride to the park.

We are thrilled to host the 6th Annual Pets in the Park event scheduled for SATURDAY October 10, 2026, from 10 am-2 pm at Carolina Beach Lake Park.

​Pets in the Park celebrates and promotes local pet-centric businesses and services, features local creators, and highlights many animal non-profits & adoption organizations.

Admission is $5 (free for kids under 10). The Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce donates back a portion of the admission fees to local pet rescues every year!

Celebrate World Mental Health Day with Canines for Service at Zoomies for a Cause, a dog-friendly 1-Mile Walk and 5K dedicated to supporting Veterans and raising awareness for mental health.

Whether you’re an avid runner, casual walker, or simply looking for a meaningful way to spend the day with your four-legged friend, this event offers something for everyone. Bring your family, friends, and leashed dogs to enjoy an afternoon of community, wellness, and purpose.

Every registration helps Canines for Service provide highly trained service dogs to Veterans nationwide living with service-connected PTSD, traumatic brain injuries, military sexual trauma, and mobility limitations. These life-changing canine partnerships are provided at no cost to the Veteran and without any fundraising obligation.

We’re SO excited to host the 2nd Annual Pumpkins & Purrs! 🎃🐾

Join Beauty & Bloom and All4Cats, along with an amazing lineup of local vendors for a district-wide celebration! We’ll be shutting down the street to make room for shopping, activities, and plenty of festive fall fun for everyone.

100% of the pumpkin patch proceeds go to All 4 Cats Rescue. There will be adorable cats for adoption! Lots of local vendors and tasty treats! Hosted by Beauty and Bloom!

Want to be a vendor? Apply here: https://forms.gle/CTrNScEvTQS2eukR8

DJ Milk & Cookies from 5-8pm on the pier

Paint a portrait of your favorite furry friend — no art experience needed. Send a photo of your pet ahead of time, and the team will professionally outline and transfer it onto a high-quality canvas for you to paint during the class.

When you get to the class, the fun begins. Stick to a traditional style, try pop art, or let your creativity take over. Prefer to start from scratch? A blank canvas can be reserved for you.

Want to use a photo of your pet? Email your photo to mary.toffolon@wilmingtonnc.gov by Oct. 5.

Registration is required here.

Homeschool Learning Series: Homeschool in The Gardens – August 26th

August 26 @ 10:00 am - 2:00 pm

The Gardens of Southeastern North Carolina

🌿 Homeschool in The Gardens

📅 Wednesday, August 26

🕙 10:00 AM–2:00 PM 💲

$25 per family

Pack your homeschool books, a picnic lunch, and a blanket for a relaxing day of outdoor learning. Families are invited to complete schoolwork while enjoying the beauty of The Gardens. Throughout the day, we’ll offer optional scavenger hunts, nature activities, crafts, read-alouds, guided garden tours, and opportunities to connect with other homeschool families.

$25

Jazz at the Mansion performance on October 14th. Show begins at 6:30pm

This October, the undead return to the Port City… this isn't your typical 5K - This is a Race through history where runners will try to outrun the undead! From the primitive terror of Cave Zombies in the Stone Age to ruthless Cyborg Zombies of the future, each section of the course will throw you into a new chapter of survival.

Dress to distress in your favorite zombie era - come witness history unfold or sprint for survival in the 5k or Monster Mile. We'll travel through ancient civilizations, medieval chaos, revolutionary battles, and futuristic destruction as the zombie outbreak evolves through the ages.

Can YOU survive history's deadliest timeline? Grab your team, lace up your running shoes, and prepare to outrun the apocalypse - one era at a time.

💀 Special Effects to Last the ages:

• Race T-shirt for all who dare to enter
• Creepy on-course surprises inspired by the eras of civilization.
• Zombie Survivor Medal for the first 100 Zombie Run Survivors
• A family friendly run/walk Monster Mile where kids can bring their Halloween baskets to trick-or-treat with their family and take pictures with the Zombies along the course.

4:30pm: Monster Mile - $20 registration fee

5:30pm: 5K - $35 registration fee

Think about your favorite musical experience — maybe it was a concert, DJ, or karaoke night — and bring that memory to life through art. All supplies will be provided. Let your mind and memories lead the way – will it be a painting, a collage (magazines and stickers will be provided) or a mixture of both? Bring a friend or come on your own and make new ones.

Registration is required here.

🍷 Wine in the Patch 🍂

This October, we're creating a cozy Wine in the Patch experience on Wednesday, October 21st evening in our beach pumpkin patch for our wine lovers!

✨ We're putting it on your radar now so you can save the date. More details about the experience will be added to this page closer to the date.

4th Annual Doggy Costume Contest

October 23rd 2-4PM at Carolina Beach Pier

Use code CHECKWHATSGOOD for 20% off your ticket purchase

https://www.universe.com/events/the-cellar-sea-shore-tickets-KLS7TW?unii-trigger-open=KLS7TW&unii-discount-code=CHECKWHATSGOOD

Think specialty craft beers, full wine bars, oysters, meats, fish, and other delectable delights! This is an event for true-life aficionados, so come and try something new. Mark your calendar for October 23, 2026, and join us as the sun sets into the river!

Fine wines, craft brews, coastal cuisine, and the vibrant spirit of Wilmington. Lighthouse Beer & Wine hosts an amazing night with breweries pouring their most sought-after beers, winery representatives sharing their favorite grapes, a champagne bar, a Kamado grilling extravaganza, restaurant stations, and, of course, oysters.

Last year we had an amazing array from The Butcher’s Market, NSEA Oysters, Chef Eric Gephart with Kamado Grill, Chef Clay Fuller, Castle Street Kitchen, Salt and Charm, Crofton’s Pretzels, On Thyme, and Nothing Bundt Cakes! The Voracious Cellar, Sea and Shore event is the precursor to our large event on Saturday, but it is also the ultimate date night experience. Tickets are extremely limited, so get yours in hand ASAP. Included in the evening is a tasty menu, delightful wine, craft beer, and live music!

The Cellar, Sea & Shore Event (Use Code CHECKWHATSGOOD at checkout for 20% off)

Fri, Oct 23 at 6-9 PM

Think specialty craft beers, full wine bars, champagne, oysters and other delectable delights from your favorite eats in town! This is an event for the true aficionado of life; come try some new things. Tickets are extremely limited.

Tickets: https://www.universe.com/events/the-cellar-sea-shore-tickets-KLS7TW?unii-trigger-open=KLS7TW&unii-discount-code=CHECKWHATSGOOD

Lighthouse Beer and Wine Festival (Use Code CHECKWHATSGOOD at checkout for $10 off)

Sat, Oct 24 at 12:00-5:00 PM

The largest beer and wine festival in the southeast! The widest variety of beers from more breweries than you can ever taste, jammin' live music, food and more!

Tickets: https://www.universe.com/events/lighthouse-beer-and-wine-festival-tickets-SDX3BT?unii-trigger-open=SDX3BT&unii-discount-code=CHECKWHATSGOOD

The Cause

The Carousel Child Advocacy Center, a non-profit organization committed to assisting victims of child abuse, and providing critical care services to children from throughout southeastern North Carolina. The Lighthouse Beer and Wine Festival has grown to be an integral part of the Carousel Center’s yearly budget. This festival helps the Carousel Center so they can continue to help those in need in our surrounding counties and cities.

Use Code CHECKWHATSGOOD for $10 off

https://www.universe.com/events/lighthouse-beer-and-wine-festival-tickets-SDX3BT?unii-trigger-open=SDX3BT&unii-discount-code=CHECKWHATSGOOD

The Beer & Wine Festival

Lighthouse Beer and Wine Festival, benefiting the Carousel Child Advocacy Center, downtown Wilmington North Carolina!

Join us October 24, 2026 from 12:00PM-5:00PM

Lighthouse Beer and Wine puts on this fantastic event once a year, always in the wonderful month of October. Mark your calendars for October 24, 2026 for the Lighthouse Beer and Wine Festival, benefitting the Carousel Child Advocacy Center. This is the beer and wine event of the year– more breweries, wineries, and delights than you can possibly sample in a day. Don’t forget to try some delta drinks, chill with some live music and delicious food, all in one amazing venue. Upon entry, you will receive your tasting cup to responsibly taste and find your favorites! No tokens, just unlimited responsible samples! VIP grants you access earlier and allows you to experience the delights with a limited number of fellow lucky VIP ticket holders.

In just the last 5 years, the Carousel Center has seen an average of 450 children a year between the ages of birth and 17 from New Hanover, Brunswick, and Pender counties. Most of these children have been referred to them by local law enforcement or the County’s Department of Social Services. Since their doors opened in January of 2000 they have provided Certified Medical Exams to well over 10,000 children and have facilitated over 15,000 child trauma therapy sessions.

All Proceeds benefit All 4 Cats Rescue!

$25 for a haunted premium car wash ($30 value) with a deep cleaning, waxing, and a shine that's to die for! But beware the creatures lurking inside!

Hosted on October 23, 24, 30, and 31 from 7PM-10PM at Mako Express Wash - Wilmington, NC.

Want to support without the spook? Put your hazards on to keep our scarers away! 👻

We’re back with our popular Full Moon Parties this season!

A relaxed, coastal gathering where the beauty of the full moon meets the rhythm of the ocean.

Enjoy stunning moonrise views over the water, chill music, and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for all ages. This free, family and dog-friendly event invites you to grab a drink, dinner, or ice cream and soak it all in.

This is a free event for our bar patrons—no tickets, no cover charge.

SAVE THE DATES:

Monday, October 26

Monday, November 23

(Always 7-10pm)

If the weather shifts, the vibe continues indoors at our High Tide Lounge but follow us for day of updates!

Come for the moon. Stay for the atmosphere. Make it your monthly ritual.

Electric Enclave Presents: ALLEYCVT - Powered by DJ Lovers Club

The Pier at Port City Marina

Fri, Oct 30 at 5:00 PM (EDT)

🌊 Electric Enclave, DJ Lovers Club, & CHP Present: ALLEYCVT: ON THE PIER 🌊

Friday, October 30th, 2026
Wilmington, NC

This Halloween, we’re taking over the THE PIER at Port City Marina for a massive night with ALLEYCVT.

We’re bringing one of the biggest bass music shows Wilmington has seen directly to the water for a special Halloween Show ON THE PIER!

Expect great vibes, heavy bass, waterfront views, and a full night of music with support from MACHAKI, SPORTMODE, DND MUSIC, MIKE CHECK, and NOT H3RE.

Whether you’re coming to rage in costume, spend Halloween weekend with your crew, or experience ALLEYCVT under the lights on the pier, this is shaping up to be one of the biggest nights of the year.

🎟 Friday, October 30th
📍 The Pier at Port City Marina - Downtown Wilmington, NC
🕘 5pm - 10:45pm
🔞 Ages 18+

Costumes encouraged.
Let’s make history on the pier.

Join the City of Wilmington in celebrating our downtown! Following the adoption of the Greater Downtown Plan, the City is kicking off its implementation phase with planning for the future.

From 5 to 6:30 p.m., explore City project displays, meet staff, share your ideas, and learn more about downtown initiatives. Enjoy food trucks, Halloween treats, lawn games, music, tree giveaways from Alliance for Cape Fear Trees, police and fire vehicles on display, and activities for all ages along the way.

Then, stick around for Hocus Pocus starting at 6:45 p.m. Bring the family, grab some popcorn, and settle in for a fun night downtown. Costumes are encouraged!

Keep in Mind

• Costumes are encouraged!

• Please bring blankets or low chairs (less than 9 inches high)

• Water refill stations and restrooms are available on site

Parking

• Free parking is available in the Skyline Center South Lot, at the corner of Nutt and Brunswick streets, and opens at 4 p.m.

• ADA parking is available along Harnett Street

• Nutt Street parking will be closed.

• The first hour is free to park in both the Market Street and Second Street parking decks

For more information, please visit wilmingtonnc.gov/CelebrateDowntown

or https://wilmingtonmom.com/calendar/celebrate-downtown/

Join the City of Wilmington for an evening celebrating downtown and looking ahead to what’s next!

Following the adoption of the Greater Downtown Plan, we’re kicking off the next chapter with a night designed for the whole community.

5–6:45 p.m. | Explore, Play & Connect

Come downtown to:

• 🏙️ Get a sneak peek at projects shaping downtown
• 💬 Meet City staff, ask questions and share your ideas
• 🌮 Grab dinner from local food trucks
• 🎃 Enjoy Halloween treats
• 🎶 Listen to music and play lawn games

6:45 p.m. | Halloween Movie in the Park

Bring a blanket, grab some popcorn and settle in for a kid-friendly movie under the stars.

🎃 Costumes are encouraged!

Halloween Party on the Pier

7-10pm: Live music by Dragons with Matches, tiki bar open

10pm-1am: Late night party with DJ Starrz

Spookeasy (tickets required)

Halloween Day at the Pier

Start your Halloween by the ocean with lunch, drinks & a beautiful fall day

Tiki bar opens at 11am

Halloween day pumpkin sale: special pricing on remaining pumpkins

A magical display of serious kite flyers sharing their sky art at the Fort Fisher State Recreation Area for the 20th Annual Cape Fear Kite Festival presented by the Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce. See incredible shapes, sizes, styles and of course colors as they float, soar and ride the air. Book a stay at one of our many hotels, motels and rental properties!

​Free Admission. Free parking and transport from Blakeslee Air Force Base Recreation Area Saturday & Sunday. Handicap accessible with support from Ocean Cure!

Festivities begin at Friday afternoon at the​ Kure Beach Pier with a sneak peak of kites in flight! Friday evening at dusk on the Carolina Beach Beachfront catch ‘CB Aglow' featuring lighted ground displays, fairy flutter flags, bubble waves and the 'Sand Glow Disco' neon dance party and a drone show!

Over 80 professional flyers display kites of all shapes and sizes! These larger than life creations take flight and fill the sky Saturday and Sunday in Kure Beach at historic Fort Fisher. The view just over the dunes is visible all the way to the NC aquarium.

Saturday & Sunday enjoy a boutique festival featuring music, local food trucks, wine, locally-brewed craft beer and locally-distilled craft rum tastings. Kids activities and fun food round out the festival.

Check social media for updates.

In partnership with New Hanover County, the Alliance for Cape Fear Trees will be distributing 1,000 native canopy trees—free of charge!—to NHC residents!

This giveaway is focused first on Murrayville, a community with one of the sparsest tree canopies in New Hanover County. With canopy covering only about 13% of the area, Murrayville falls dramatically short of the 30–40% canopy often recommended for communities like it. Priority will be given to Murrayville residents until 11 AM. After 11 AM, the giveaway will open to all New Hanover County residents while supplies last. Visit our website acftrees.org to see the trees that will be available.

Fall Feast Logo

2026: Autumn In The South

The Battle for Southern Flavor Starts Here.

Twelve of the region’s most talented chefs. One unforgettable night.

NOVEMBER 7TH • CANTERBURY STABLES • 4PM - 8PM

Celebrate the flavors of fall at Autumn in the South, an open-air culinary event set against the scenic backdrop of Canterbury Stables. This one-of-a-kind event brings together a dozen of Wilmington’s top chefs for an evening of incredible food and friendly competition.

Enjoy a creative tasting from each chef, live music and a curated selection of beer, wine and seasonal cocktails. Whether you’re a serious foodie or simply looking for a memorable night out, Autumn in the South is the perfect way to celebrate the season.

EVENT SCHEDULE

4PM - 5PM

Welcome Cocktail + Bites

5PM - 7PM

Tasting + Voting

7PM - 8PM

Award Announcements: People’s Choice Award

Largest International Latino Festival in North Carolina!
Free Admission, 2-day Event
Best Kids Fiesta! Pinatas and Mexican Hat Race every hour and tons of huge Inflatables!
Over 20 Food Vendors, Music, Dancing, and much more!

You don't want to Miss it!

November 14, 2026 - November 15, 2026

Ogden Park

Bring the kids (ages 0–8) for a FREE day of fun at the 12th Annual Smart Start Family Festival on Saturday, November 14, from 10am to 1pm at Long Leaf Park. Families will enjoy hands-on activities, live entertainment by the Broccoli Brothers Circus, raffle prizes, and more! Discover local resources and enjoy quality time together in a festive, family-friendly setting.

Questions about participating or sponsoring? Contact Jennifer at 910-815-3731 or jennifer.gallo@newhanoverkids.org.

The Southern Lights at The Gardens of Southeastern North Carolina

A Holiday Tradition You’ll Look Forward to Every Year

Experience the magic of the season at The Southern Lights, where thousands of twinkling lights, festive displays, delicious food, and unforgettable moments come together to create one of Eastern North Carolina’s favorite holiday traditions.

Wander through beautifully illuminated botanical gardens, climb aboard our Elf Quest Wagon Ride, explore the Holiday Maze, challenge your family in the Snowball Arena, roast s’mores by the fire, and enjoy an evening filled with holiday cheer.

Whether you’re continuing a cherished family tradition, planning a festive date night, or gathering with friends and coworkers, The Southern Lights offers a memorable Christmas experience for guests of all ages.

Every ticket purchased supports The Gardens of Southeastern North Carolina, a nonprofit botanical garden dedicated to improving lives by cultivating inspiration.

We’re back with our popular Full Moon Parties this season!

A relaxed, coastal gathering where the beauty of the full moon meets the rhythm of the ocean.

Enjoy stunning moonrise views over the water, chill music, and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for all ages. This free, family and dog-friendly event invites you to grab a drink, dinner, or ice cream and soak it all in.

This is a free event for our bar patrons—no tickets, no cover charge.

SAVE THE DATES:

Monday, November 23

(Always 7-10pm)

If the weather shifts, the vibe continues indoors at our High Tide Lounge but follow us for day of updates!

Come for the moon. Stay for the atmosphere. Make it your monthly ritual.

Our most popular fund-raising event of the year, Poplar Grove continues its much-anticipated Merry & Bright – A Holiday of Lights – for 2026, so mark your calendars and prepare to celebrate the holidays with family and friends.

1st three weekends runs Friday – Sunday from 5 – 9 PM, starting Friday, November 27th. Last weekend runs Friday – Tuesday from 5 – 9 PM, ending December 22nd.

$10 ALL AGES TICKET (Children 2 & Under Free), $35 FAMILY PASS (2 Adults/2 Children 2-11), $100 SEASON PASS (2 Adults/2 Children 2-11).

Admission includes lighted grounds, spectacularly lit trees, Visits With Santa, Grinch’s Junk Shop, Secret Gardens, Bumble’s Snowball Party, Santa’s Boot Camp, and celebrating America’s 250th in the Spirit of ’76 Tavern.

Also on site are campfires to roast marshmallows, outdoor holiday movie favorites, and a decorated manor house, featuring iconic scenes from A Christmas Story …

And least we forget, our favorite balloon-extraordinaire, Mr. Twister, will be sculpting imaginative creations for the kids.

Vintage carnival games, food trucks & concessions, and juried gift show add warmth and joy to the holidays, so make plans to spend the entire evening!

November 28th

Burn the Bird

Tournament Format: Coed 3-person

Cash payout tournament to help everyone who overindulged (cough cough, all of us) on Thanksgiving, burn off those calories!

December 12th

Onesie Tournament

Tournament Format: Coed 4-person

Everyone dig through your closest for your favorite Onesie and get ready to dive on the court! This is a toy drive tournament, with each team donating 4 unwrapped toys that are donated to various local charity organizations benefiting children during the holiday season.