Wilmington Running Club — Weekly Group Run
Join Wilmington's most welcoming running community for a free Thursday morning group run at beautiful Greenfield Lake Park! Routes of 3 and 5 miles available for all paces. Friendly, no-drop policy — no runner left behind. Post-run coffee meetup nearby. All are welcome, from beginners to marathoners.
Summer Concert at Greenfield Lake
Live outdoor concert under the lights at Greenfield Lake Amphitheater.
Thursday Night Live Concert Series
Wilmington's beloved free outdoor concert series returns to Riverfront Park every Thursday evening. Live bands, food trucks, and great vibes along the Cape Fear River. Genres rotate weekly — from beach music to blues to classic rock.
Cucalorus Film Festival — Summer Shorts Showcase
The Cucalorus Film Festival presents a special summer edition featuring short films from local and regional filmmakers. Q&A sessions with directors follow each screening. Come celebrate independent cinema in the Port City.
Wilmington Ghost Walk
Explore the dark and haunted history of Wilmington's Historic District on this popular guided walking tour. Hear tales of Civil War ghosts, old burial grounds, and mysterious happenings throughout the Port City. Tours depart every Friday and Saturday night.
Wrightsville Beach Summer Concert Series
Kick off your summer weekend with live music at Wrightsville Beach Park! The popular Summer Concert Series features local and regional bands every Friday evening through August. Bring lawn chairs, blankets, and a picnic. Concessions available on-site. Free and open to all ages — rain or shine.
Cape Fear Paddle Fest
Annual paddleboard and kayak festival on the Cape Fear River. Beginner lessons, guided river tours, racing competitions, and demos from local outfitters. All skill levels welcome. Registration required for races.
Cape Fear Museum Free Family Day
Explore Wilmington's rich history and natural science without spending a dime! On the third Saturday of each month, Cape Fear Museum opens its doors for Free Family Day — featuring hands-on exhibits, interactive science stations, local history displays, and special programming for kids of all ages.
Yoga on the Riverwalk
Start your Sunday right with a free, all-levels outdoor yoga class on the scenic Cape Fear Riverwalk! Led by certified local instructors, this community wellness series runs every Sunday morning through September. Bring your own mat. Suitable for beginners and experienced yogis alike.
Cape Fear Paddlers — Greenfield Lake Kayak Social
Join the Cape Fear Paddlers for a relaxed Sunday morning kayak and canoe social on beautiful Greenfield Lake. The calm, Spanish-moss-draped cypress lake is perfect for all skill levels, including beginners. Members bring their own boats; rental kayaks available nearby. After the paddle, stick around for a casual picnic on the lake shore. Great way to enjoy Wilmington's natural beauty with fellow outdoor enthusiasts.
Wilmywood Film Screening
Outdoor movie night honoring films shot in Wilmington.
Cape Fear Community College Continuing Education Open House
Explore fall class offerings in trades, technology, arts, and professional development at CFCC's free open house. Advisors, instructors, and program chairs will be on hand to answer questions, offer tours, and help you plan your path. Free parking in the North Front Street deck for attendees.
Azalea Festival Street Fair
Annual celebration of Wilmington's coastal heritage.
Wilmington Trivia Night — Benefit for Cape Fear Literacy Council
Put your wits and local knowledge to the test at this fun charity trivia night hosted at Flytrap Brewing! Teams of up to six compete across rounds covering Wilmington history, pop culture, sports, and more. Entry fee benefits the Cape Fear Literacy Council. Craft beers and bites available.
Wrightsville Beach Summer Surf Classic
Annual amateur surf competition at Wrightsville Beach drawing competitors from across the Southeast. Watch divisions for shortboard, longboard, and groms. Free spectator access on the beach. Sponsored by local surf shops.
Wrightsville Beach Triathlon
One of the region's most popular summer triathlons featuring a swim in Banks Channel, a scenic bike loop around Wrightsville Beach, and a run along the shore. Open to all skill levels with sprint and Olympic distances. Proceeds support local youth athletics.
Live at the Cargo District — Summer Block Party
Wilmington's creative shipping-container district transforms into an open-air festival! Live music from local bands, food trucks serving street eats and craft cocktails, local artisan pop-ups, and a beer garden in Wilmington's hippest neighborhood hub. Family and dog friendly.
Airlie Gardens Summer Concert Series
Enjoy a magical summer evening of live music surrounded by Airlie Gardens' iconic 67-acre landscape of towering live oaks, ornamental lakes, and lush gardens. Local and regional artists perform on the lawn stage as fireflies light up at dusk. Bring a blanket or low lawn chair, a picnic basket, and your favorite beverage. Gates open one hour before showtime. General garden admission applies.
Live at the Lawn – Summer Concert Series
Wilmington's beloved free summer concert series returns to Greenfield Lake Amphitheater. Enjoy live local and regional bands under the stars with food trucks on-site. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Rain or shine.
Greenfield Lake Summer Concert Series
Bring your lawn chairs and blankets for a free summer evening of live music at Greenfield Lake Amphitheater. Featuring local and regional artists performing rock, soul, and beach music under the stars. Food trucks on site. All ages welcome.
Concerts on the Coast — Summer Outdoor Music Series
Kick off summer the right way at Greenfield Lake Amphitheater! The Concerts on the Coast series brings regional and national acts to one of Wilmington's most beautiful outdoor stages. Expect a mix of rock, soul, and beach music under the stars. Lawn chairs and blankets welcome. Food trucks and bar service on-site. All ages welcome.
Movies in the Park — Summer Nights at Halyburton
Wilmington Parks & Recreation brings back Movies in the Park for summer! Grab your lawn chairs, blankets, and bug spray for a free outdoor movie night under the stars at Halyburton Park. Gates open at 7:30 PM with pre-show lawn games; film starts at dusk (~8:30 PM). Popcorn and refreshments available. Family-friendly film lineup announced on the City of Wilmington website. Rain date: following Friday.
Greenfield Lake Outdoor Movie Night
Bring your blankets and lawn chairs for a free outdoor movie screening at the scenic Greenfield Lake Amphitheater. This community favorite features a family-friendly film projected on a giant screen under the stars. Food trucks on site. Gates open at dusk; film begins at dark. Free parking available.
Cape Fear Museum — Summer Science Saturday
Hands-on STEM activities for kids of all ages! This monthly Summer Science Saturday features interactive experiments, guided exhibit tours, and demonstrations by local science educators. Topics this month: coastal ecosystems and water science. Included with museum admission. No pre-registration required.
Wilmington Wine & Food Festival
Sample wines from 30+ regional vineyards and bites from Wilmington's best restaurants at this annual tasting event on the Cape Fear River. Featuring live jazz, cooking demos, and a silent auction benefiting local charities.
Live Music at Flytrap Brewing — Summer Sessions
Flytrap Brewing's beloved Saturday afternoon Summer Sessions return! Every Saturday from June through August, local Wilmington musicians and bands take the taproom stage from 4–7 PM. Featuring genres from folk and bluegrass to indie rock and jazz. No cover charge — just grab a pint of one of Flytrap's rotating craft beers and enjoy the tunes. Food trucks parked out front most weekends. All ages welcome until 9 PM.
Live Music on the Lawn — Airlie Gardens Summer Concert
Spend a beautiful summer evening at Airlie Gardens for an outdoor live music concert on the lawn! Local and regional bands perform amid Airlie's stunning gardens, Spanish moss-draped oaks, and lakeside views. Bring a blanket or low beach chair. Wine, beer, and light bites available for purchase. Garden admission applies.
Thalian Hall Summer Theatre: "Into the Woods"
Thalian Hall's summer production of the Tony Award-winning musical "Into the Woods" by Stephen Sondheim. Featuring beloved fairy tale characters in a witty, enchanting evening of song and storytelling. Multiple performances through July.
Craft Beer Festival
Sample beers from a dozen local breweries.
Thalian Hall: "Into the Woods" Opening Night
Cape Fear Community Theatre presents the Sondheim & Lapine classic "Into the Woods" — a dazzling musical weaving together beloved fairy tales with grown-up themes of wishes, consequences, and community. Opening night performance followed by a cast reception in the lobby.
Independence Day Boat Parade — Masonboro Sound
Celebrate the 4th of July on the water! Decorated boats parade through Masonboro Sound and the Intracoastal Waterway in this beloved annual tradition. Spectators can watch from shore, docks, or join the fun on their own vessel. Prizes for best-decorated boat. Patriotic spirit required!
4th of July Fireworks — Wilmington Riverfront
Celebrate Independence Day with Wilmington's spectacular fireworks show over the Cape Fear River! Arrive early for prime viewing spots along the Riverwalk. Food vendors and live entertainment start at 6 PM. Fireworks at dark (~9 PM).
Wrightsville Beach Paddleboard & Kayak Race
Hit the water the day after Independence Day at Wrightsville Beach's annual paddleboard and kayak race! Open to all skill levels with competitive and recreational divisions. Races take place in Banks Channel. Registration includes a post-race cookout, raffle prizes, and awards. Equipment rentals available nearby for newcomers.
Cape Fear Comic Con
The Cape Fear region's premier pop culture convention! Two days of celebrity guests, comic book artists, cosplay contests, gaming, vendors, and panels. Suitable for all ages. Cosplay encouraged!
Wrightsville Beach Family Kite Festival
Celebrate the long 4th of July weekend with the annual family kite festival at Wrightsville Beach! Prizes for best homemade kite, highest flyer, and most creative design. Kite-making workshop for kids at 10 AM. Sunscreen and beach chairs recommended.
Sunrise Yoga at Wrightsville Beach
Start your Sunday with intention at an open-air yoga session right on the sand at Wrightsville Beach. Led by certified local instructors, this all-levels flow class takes advantage of the peaceful early-morning ocean breeze before the crowds arrive. Bring your own mat and water. Suitable for beginners through experienced practitioners. Runs every Sunday morning through August. Drop-in or commit to the full summer series.
Wilmington City Council Public Meeting
Regular public meeting of the Wilmington City Council. Residents are encouraged to attend and participate during the public comment period. Agenda posted 48 hours in advance at the City of Wilmington website. Meeting also streamed live online.
Kids' Nature Camp Open House – Cape Fear Museum
Families are invited to explore Cape Fear Museum's summer nature camp open house! Kids ages 5–12 can experience hands-on science exhibits, wildlife encounters, and meet camp counselors. Register for summer sessions on-site. Free admission for the event day.
Thalian Hall Summer Musical: Mamma Mia!
Thalian Association Community Theatre presents the beloved ABBA-inspired musical Mamma Mia! at the historic Thalian Hall. Featuring dazzling costumes, infectious songs, and local talent. Multiple shows available — get your tickets early!
Wilmington Downtown Sundown Concert — Free Outdoor Series
Wilmington's free summer Sundown Concert series brings live music to the Cape Fear Riverwalk every Thursday evening in July. Local bands cover everything from beach music and country to funk and rock. Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy the river breeze. Food and drink vendors on site. All ages welcome.
Thalian Hall Summer Showcase — Local Performing Arts Night
Celebrate the best of Wilmington's local performing arts talent at Thalian Hall's annual summer showcase! An evening featuring short performances by local theater troupes, dance companies, musical ensembles, and spoken word artists. A wonderful introduction to the Port City's vibrant performing arts community. Tickets available at the box office.
Thalian Hall Summer Cinema — Outdoor Movie Night
Thalian Hall's beloved outdoor movie series returns for summer! Watch a classic film under the stars in the historic courtyard of Wilmington's oldest performing arts center. Bring a blanket or low-back lawn chair. Concessions and wine available for purchase. Film TBA — check the Thalian Hall website for the weekly pick.
Downtown Wilmington Art Walk
Wilmington's monthly First Friday Art Walk returns! Stroll through downtown galleries, studios, and pop-up exhibitions. Participating venues offer complimentary refreshments, live demonstrations, and meet-the-artist opportunities. Self-guided map available at each venue.
Live Jazz at the Brooklyn Arts Center
The Brooklyn Arts Center hosts an intimate evening of live jazz featuring rotating Cape Fear-area ensembles and guest soloists. Set inside a beautifully restored 1920s church, the acoustics are legendary. Doors open at 6:30 PM; BYOB welcome with a $10 corkage fee. Seating is limited — tickets sell out quickly.
Thalian Association Summer Youth Theatre Showcase
The Thalian Association's Summer Youth Theatre camp culminates in a public showcase performance on the historic Thalian Hall stage! Young performers ages 8–18 present scenes, songs, and a short original production developed during their intensive two-week camp. A beloved community tradition that spotlights the next generation of Port City performers. Come cheer on our young stars!
Cape Fear Road Runners Summer 5K
Lace up for the Cape Fear Road Runners monthly summer 5K through scenic Hugh MacRae Park. All fitness levels welcome — chip-timed race with age-group awards, post-race refreshments, and raffles. Register online or morning-of. Proceeds support local youth running programs.
Wrightsville Beach Paddle for the Cure
Annual charity paddleboard and kayak race benefiting breast cancer research. All skill levels welcome — competitive heats and a recreational division available. Registration includes event t-shirt and post-race brunch. Spectators welcome free.
Wrightsville Beach Paddle Festival
Annual summer paddle festival featuring SUP races, kayak sprints, and surf ski competitions on Banks Channel. Open to all skill levels with divisions for beginners through elite athletes. Vendor village, live music, and kids' paddle demos round out the day.
Wrightsville Beach Surf Competition
Watch the area's top surfers compete in shortboard, longboard, and junior divisions at Wrightsville Beach's annual summer surf comp. Spectators cheer from the beach as competitors rip through Atlantic swells. Vendor village on the strand features surf brands, local food, and live music between heats. Free to watch — all skill levels compete.
Wrightsville Beach Annual Paddleboard & Kayak Race
Hit the water for Wrightsville Beach's beloved annual paddleboard and kayak race on the Intracoastal Waterway! Divisions for all skill levels — from competitive open-ocean paddlers to recreational beginners and kids. Registration includes a race bib, post-race cookout, and raffle entry. Rentals available on-site for those without their own boards. Spectators welcome along the shoreline. Proceeds support local ocean conservation.
Wilmington Food Truck Rodeo
Over 20 of Wilmington's best food trucks gather for an afternoon of culinary adventure! Sample everything from lobster rolls and BBQ to artisan ice cream and gourmet tacos. Live music, a kids' play area, and a craft beer garden round out the afternoon. Free admission — just bring your appetite.
New Hanover County Commissioners Public Hearing
New Hanover County Board of Commissioners holds its regular public hearing session. Residents may sign up to speak during the public comment period on agenda items including land use, infrastructure, and county budget matters. Meeting streamed live on the county website.
Cape Fear River Kayak & Paddleboard Tour
Paddle the historic Cape Fear River with a guided morning tour departing from Riverfront Park. Kayaks and paddleboards provided — no experience necessary. Your guide shares the natural and colonial history of the Cape Fear estuary as you glide past Wilmington's skyline and tidal marshes. All safety gear included. Groups of up to 20; advance registration required.
Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park — Summer Splash Days
Beat the summer heat at Jungle Rapids! Enjoy waterslides, bumper boats, go-karts, mini golf, laser tag, and an arcade. Summer Splash Days feature extended water park hours and special family pricing. Perfect for kids of all ages.
Thalian Hall Summer Concert Series
Thalian Hall's beloved Summer Concert Series continues with an evening of live jazz, blues, and Americana on the historic Main Stage. One of the Southeast's oldest operating theaters hosts world-class regional talent every third Saturday through August.
Cape Fear Blues Festival
Three days of world-class blues music along the Cape Fear River. Featuring national headliners and regional acts across two outdoor stages. Food trucks, craft vendors, and a Juke Joint tent add to the festival atmosphere. Free shuttle from downtown parking decks.
Wrightsville Beach Paddleboard Classic
Competitors of all skill levels race stand-up paddleboards through the scenic Intracoastal Waterway around Wrightsville Beach. Divisions for elite, recreational, juniors, and first-timers. Post-race beach party with awards, food, and live music. Spectating is free.
Wilmington Jazz & Blues Sunset Cruise
Set sail on the Cape Fear River aboard a vintage riverboat for an unforgettable evening of live jazz and blues. Local legends and regional touring artists perform as the sun dips below the horizon behind downtown Wilmington. Ticket includes two complimentary drinks; cash bar and light bites available. Dress is smart casual. Boarding begins 30 minutes before departure.
Screen on the Green — Airlie Gardens Film Night
Bring a blanket and enjoy a classic film under the stars at Airlie Gardens' magical outdoor cinema. Gates open at dusk; film begins at sundown. Concessions available. No outside food or alcohol. Dog-friendly on leash. Check website for monthly title announcements.
Wilmington's Market on 3rd — Sunday Market
A curated Sunday market featuring local artisans, vintage finds, hand-crafted goods, fresh baked pastries, and specialty coffee. Stroll the shaded park while browsing one-of-a-kind wares from 50+ vendors. Dog-friendly and family-welcoming.
Cucalorus Film Festival
Wilmington's premier independent film festival showcases features, shorts, and documentaries from emerging and established filmmakers. Q&As with directors, panel discussions, and late-night screenings create a full immersive film weekend. Connect film, art, and community.
Wilmington Shakespeare Festival
Three evenings of classic Shakespeare performed by local and regional repertory companies at the historic Thalian Hall. This year's productions include outdoor performances in the courtyard and mainstage shows. Bring a blanket for the outdoor evenings; wine and snacks available.
Wilmington Family Beach Day & Kids' Ocean Festival
A full day of family fun right on the Atlantic! Kids' activities include sandcastle building contests, scavenger hunts, sea turtle education booths, and boogie board demos. Local marine biologists host touch-tank exhibits featuring local sea life. Lifeguards on duty. Sunscreen, shade tents, and food vendors on site. Perfect for families with kids of all ages.
NC Road Race 5K & 10K — Wilmington
Lace up your sneakers for a beloved Wilmington summer road race! The 5K and 10K courses wind through scenic Wilmington neighborhoods and tree-canopied parks. All finishers receive a commemorative medal and t-shirt. Post-race festival with food, music, and awards ceremony.
Wilmington Wing Fest
Dozens of local restaurants and food trucks compete for the title of Wilmington's Best Wing. Sample unlimited wings with general admission, vote for your People's Choice favorite, and enjoy cold craft beer and live music. Proceeds benefit local youth programs.
NC Azalea Festival 5K Run
Lace up for the annual Azalea Festival 5K through Wilmington's beautiful park system. A chip-timed 3.1-mile course winds through azalea-lined paths, with post-race awards, refreshments, and prizes for top finishers in each age group. Proceeds support local youth athletics.
Cucalorus Film Festival Preview Night
An exclusive preview night kicking off Wilmington's beloved Cucalorus Film Festival season. Screenings of festival-selected short films and a feature premiere, followed by a filmmaker Q&A and networking reception. A must-attend for cinephiles and the local creative community.
NC Azalea Festival Pageant & Garden Party
The North Carolina Azalea Festival's signature Garden Party showcases stunning azalea gardens in full bloom alongside the coronation of the Festival Queen. Enjoy live music, garden tours, local artisans, and southern cuisine at one of North Carolina's longest-running festivals.
Wrightsville Beach Stand-Up Paddleboard Classic
Paddle your way to glory at the annual Wrightsville Beach SUP Classic! Featuring competitive and recreational divisions for all ages in Banks Channel. Expo area with gear demos, lessons for beginners, and an after-paddle beach party with live music and food vendors.
Wilmington Beer Fest
Sample beers from 40+ North Carolina craft breweries along the scenic Cape Fear Riverfront. Unlimited 4-oz pours with general admission, plus live music across two stages, gourmet food trucks, and a homebrew competition. One of Wilmington's most popular fall events.
Riverfest Wilmington
One of the Carolinas' largest fall street festivals returns to historic downtown Wilmington. Over 200 arts & crafts vendors, live entertainment on multiple stages, a kids' carnival area, and a classic car show line the riverwalk. Admission is free and open to all ages.
Film Fest Wilmington
Four days celebrating independent film in the Port City — the Hollywood of the East. Screenings of feature films, documentaries, and short films from emerging and established filmmakers. Panel discussions, filmmaker Q&As, networking mixers, and an awards ceremony round out the festival.
Downtown Wilmington Halloween Crawl
Wilmington's biggest Halloween bar crawl takes over the historic downtown district! Costumes strongly encouraged. Participating bars and venues along Front Street offer special drink deals, costume contests with cash prizes, and themed entertainment. Wristbands required — pick up at the registration tent.
Cape Fear Community College Fall Open House
Explore everything Cape Fear Community College has to offer at the Fall Open House! Tour campus facilities, meet faculty and current students, learn about degree and certificate programs, financial aid, and transfer pathways. Admissions staff on hand for one-on-one guidance.
Wilmington Holiday Parade
Kick off the holiday season with Wilmington's beloved annual parade! Floats, marching bands, community groups, and of course Santa Claus make their way down Market Street through the heart of downtown. Free and open to all — grab a spot early along the route.
Wilmington Christmas Market at Riverfront Park
Stroll through Wilmington's enchanting Christmas Market on the Cape Fear River! Shop for unique holiday gifts from local artisans and craftspeople, sip hot cocoa and mulled cider, enjoy carolers and live holiday entertainment, and snap photos with seasonal décor and lights. Open daily through Dec 20.