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WILMINGTON, N.C. (CAPE FEAR WEEKEND) -
Enjoy Summer with these upcoming events in Wilmington. Independence Day, Christmas in July, and so many more events on deck to make the most out of your summer weekends. Here’s your guide to concerts, musicals, exhibitions and more.
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July 1st
Black Water Adventure Cruise
Sat Jul 1st 10:00am - 12:00pm
Captain Doug’s signature cruise is a favorite for photographers, birders & nature buffs. Start your day on the water in search of wildlife and many of our feathered friends, while listening to interesting commentary about the rich history of this area. This cruise is a rewarding experience as you learn about Wilmington and our precious wildlife, while enjoying a peaceful morning ride. The Northeast Cape Fear River is still largely unpopulated and looks much as it did when Wilmington was colonized in the late 1600s. Cruise through the Castle Hayne Aquifer and by the bluffs of the Rose Hill Plantation. The Black Water Adventure gives you the opportunity to see osprey, alligators, sea turtles, and river otters, just to name a few. Bring your camera to capture the untouched beauty of this early morning adventure.
Ocean City Jazz Festival
Pavilion Tent, Corner of Island Dr & Carver St, North Topsail Beach, NC 28460 | Sat Jul 1st 5:00pm
Live jazz performances
Sunset Cruise with Live Music
Wilmington Water Tours, 212 South Water Street, Wilmington, NC 28401 | Sat 7:30pm - 9:00pm
Looking for a fun way to end your day in Wilmington? Come aboard The Wilmington, for a cruise down the Cape Fear River following the sunset. Sit back and relax at this one-of-a-kind music venue featuring local musicians.
Whether you’re looking for a special setting for a romantic night out in Wilmington or looking to enjoy some quality time with family or friends, this sunset cruise is the perfect choice for an evening activity on the Cape Fear River!
Tickets are $40 a person and this cruise tends to book up fast, so we recommend booking in advance.
July 2nd
Ocean City Jazz Festival
Pavilion Tent, Corner of Island Dr & Carver St, North Topsail Beach, NC 28460 | 8:30pm
Live jazz performances
Full Moon Sunset Cruise with Live Music
Wilmington Water Tours, 212 South Water Street, Wilmington, NC 28401 |Sun Jul 2nd 7:30pm - 9:00pm
The movement of the tides and moon energizes and stirs the imagination. Your sharpened senses clear your thoughts as you glide along the gently lit waterfront on this Wilmington boat tour. Under the enchantment of the full moon and musical stylings of various local musicians, have no fear as we cruise the Cape Fear River on this two-hour excursion. You only wish that all of your friends could be with you to enjoy something so unique and special. A memory you will always cherish: A night under the stars on the famous and mystical Cape Fear River.
July 4th
4th of July Battle for Independence Road Race
The Pointe at Barclay, 1450 Barclay Pointe Boulevard, Wilmington, NC 28412 | 7:30am - 9:30am
Kick off your Independence Day with a race!
The Fleet Feet Battle for Independence is a 4th of July race in Wilmington, NC, giving participants the chance to battle it out along Independence Blvd. on Wilmington’s scenic Cross City Trail. The race course is flat and fast, helping draw in the best athletes in our region, but is also family friendly for runners of all ages. There is a 5K and 1 Mile. Participants can run or walk either event.
All finishers get a medal at the finish line. All participants receive Battle for Independence Race socks or hat.
Wilmington Pops 4th of July Celebration!
Live Oak Bank Pavilion, 10 Cowan Street, Wilmington, NC 28401 | 5:00pm - 9:30pm
Wilmington Pops 4th of July Celebration!
Tuesday, July 4 from 5:00 p.m. - 9:25 p.m.
Cost: Free Tickets are not required.
This family friendly event will include music featuring the Wilmington Symphony Orchestra, other entertainment, kids activities, food, fireworks & more!
4th of July Firecracker Cruise
Wilmington Water Tours, 212 South Water Street, Wilmington, NC 28401 | 7:30pm - 9:00pm
Festive 4th of July celebrations on the river….We will board at 7:20pm, and depart the dock at 7:30pm for a 50min cruise returning to the dock for the firework display… Full Bar with a large variety of drinks available for purchase. We will have charcuterie’s for snacking. We will be back at the dock for the fireworks, so you will have an unobstructed view without the crowds.
Tickets are $55 per person, make sure to reserve your front row seat to the show early!
Spectacular view of fireworks at Latimer House Historic Downtown
Lower Cape Fear Historical Society, Inc. 910-762-0492, 126 South 3rd Street, Wilmington, NC 28401 | 7:00pm - 9:30pm
Please join the Lower Cape Fear Historical Society, Inc. at Latimer House to help celebrate our nation’s holiday! Limited to only 75 lawn seats! Bring your blankets and chairs, sit back and watch the city of Wilmington’s fantastic 4th of July fireworks display from the back lawn of the Latimer House. The views are spectacular and the setting is breathtaking!
Parking is not provided so please plan accordingly. Water will be provided by Latimer House.
Tickets are $20 each. There is no charge for children under 5.
July 6th
Navassa Homecoming Festival Sneaker Ball
Navassa Community Center, 338 Main Street, Navassa, NC 28451 | 6:00pm - 11:00pm
Sneaker Ball ages 4-18, 6-11pm. Location Navassa Community Center, 338 Main Street. This is a free event. An adult must accompany participants under 10 years of age. Refreshments served. Music by DJ Shack
Sunset Cruise with Live Music
Wilmington Water Tours, 212 South Water Street, Wilmington, NC 28401 | 7:30pm - 9:00pm
Looking for a fun way to end your day in Wilmington? Come aboard The Wilmington, for a cruise down the Cape Fear River following the sunset. Sit back and relax at this one-of-a-kind music venue featuring local musicians.
Whether you’re looking for a special setting for a romantic night out in Wilmington or looking to enjoy some quality time with family or friends, this sunset cruise is the perfect choice for an evening activity on the Cape Fear River!
Tickets are $40 a person and this cruise tends to book up fast, so we recommend booking in advance.
“Dorothy Gillespie Art – A Celebration” Special Exhibit Opening Reception
Art in Bloom Gallery, 6866 Main Street, Wilmington, NC 28405 | 5:00pm
In collaboration with The Dorothy M. Gillespie Foundation, Art in Bloom Gallery is pleased to present the work of, painter, sculptor and installation artist, Dorothy M. Gillespie (1920-2012), in a special exhibit of her work.
Wilmington celebrates the legacy of artist & activist, Dorothy Gillespie, in collaboration with The Dorothy M. Gillespie Foundation. Gillespie had close ties in Wilmington through a long-time friendship with Thalian Hall’s, Tony Rivenbark, who worked as her studio assistant in the 1970s. Rivenbark brought Gillespie and her art to the Cape Fear Region. Gillespie’s legacy lives on in Wilmington and the additional public venues showcasing Gillespie’s art, including the Cameron Art Museum, the New Hanover County Arboretum, Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts, Cape Fear Community College’s Wilma W. Daniels Gallery and the Wilson Center, and UNCW’s CAB Gallery.
The Foundation proudly presents the works and history of the 20th century American Artist, Dorothy Gillespie, which included abstract expressionism, decorative abstraction, site-specific installations, the women’s movement and art in public spaces. She was a pioneer in the new directions of metal sculpture and best known for large-scale, highly colorful painted arrangements of cut aluminum with enamel strips radiating, undulating, or curling in giant arrangements of ribbon, enchanted towers, and even the burst of fireworks piece. Dorothy Gillespie is well known as a painter, sculptor and installation artist whose work incorporated many significant 20th-century trends in art.
July 7th
Navassa Homecoming Festival Fun Day in Park
Fri Jul 7th 11:00am - 7:00pm
Navassa Township Park, 800 Park Avenue, Navassa, NC 28451, USA
Fun Day in the Park 11:00 am to 7:00 pm. Plenty of fun for everyone. Food Trucks, Face Painting, Gaming Truck, Balloon Man, Longest Line Dance, Bounce House, Cotton Candy, Card Tournament, Corn Ball.
Navassa Homecoming Festival Tail-Gate under the stars
Fri Jul 7th 6:00pm - 11:00pm
Navassa Township Park, 800 Park Avenue, Navassa, NC 28451, US
Tail Gate Under The Stars, bring your chair, cooler and grill along with your best recipe. This is a bring your own food event. Music by DJ Hollywood. Alcoholic beverages in coolers not permitted.
Sunset Cruise with Live Music
Fri Jul 7th 7:30pm - 9:00pm
Wilmington Water Tours, 212 South Water Street, Wilmington, NC 28401
Looking for a fun way to end your day in Wilmington? Come aboard The Wilmington, for a cruise down the Cape Fear River following the sunset. Sit back and relax at this one-of-a-kind music venue featuring local musicians.
Whether you’re looking for a special setting for a romantic night out in Wilmington or looking to enjoy some quality time with family or friends, this sunset cruise is the perfect choice for an evening activity on the Cape Fear River!
Tickets are $40 a person and this cruise tends to book up fast, so we recommend booking in advance.
Night Tour at the Burgwin-Wright House
Fri Jul 7th 9:00pm - 10:00pm
Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens, 224 Market St.
Come experience Colonial nightlife at the Burgwin-Wright House!
Guided by interpreters, you will be taken through the 1770 mansion to reveal the rituals and superstitions of bygone times without electricity and modern conveniences.
Admission is $15 + tax, per person.
Space is LIMITED, so advance registration is required. Please call (910) 762-0570, do not email.
July 8th
UPWA presents Summer Showdown 2023/Where It All Began
UPWA Arena, 7207 Ogden Business Lane, Wilmington, NC 28411 | 7:00pm - 10:00pm
The one, the only, the BEST pro wrestling on the East Coast returns to Wilmington on July 9th as UPWA presents Summer Showdown 2023/18th Anniversary Show.
Black Water Adventure Cruise
Sat Jul 8th 10:00am - 12:00pm
Captain Doug’s signature cruise is a favorite for photographers, birders & nature buffs. Start your day on the water in search of wildlife and many of our feathered friends, while listening to interesting commentary about the rich history of this area. This cruise is a rewarding experience as you learn about Wilmington and our precious wildlife, while enjoying a peaceful morning ride. The Northeast Cape Fear River is still largely unpopulated and looks much as it did when Wilmington was colonized in the late 1600s. Cruise through the Castle Hayne Aquifer and by the bluffs of the Rose Hill Plantation. The Black Water Adventure gives you the opportunity to see osprey, alligators, sea turtles, and river otters, just to name a few. Bring your camera to capture the untouched beauty of this early morning adventure.
July 9th
Sunset Cruise with Live Music
Sun Jul 9th 7:30pm - 9:00pm
Looking for a fun way to end your day in Wilmington? Come aboard The Wilmington, for a cruise down the Cape Fear River following the sunset. Sit back and relax at this one-of-a-kind music venue featuring local musicians.
Whether you’re looking for a special setting for a romantic night out in Wilmington or looking to enjoy some quality time with family or friends, this sunset cruise is the perfect choice for an evening activity on the Cape Fear River!
Tickets are $40 a person and this cruise tends to book up fast, so we recommend booking in advance
July 13th
WILMA’s Leadership Accelerator
Wilmington Convention Center 10 Convention Center Drive Wilmington, NC 28401, 9am - 2pm EDT
WILMA’s Leadership Accelerator is back and this year we’re encouraging you to lean into your potential and accelerate to the next level.
Join us for a jam-packed day of personalized programming that includes hands-on leadership workshops, mentorship sessions, a keynote lunch panel discussion and the opportunity to make meaningful connections with other like-minded women in our community.
Wildlife Park Pop-Up
Northside Park, 610 Bess Street, Wilmington, NC 28401 | 3pm - 5pm
Enjoy the day with a freeze pop and learn about the wildlife of southeastern North Carolina! Explore different animal tracks; practice walking like an animal in an obstacle course; and discover other signs of animals!
This FREE program is open to the general public, no registration required!
July 14th
Swing Dance
Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way, Leland, NC 28451 | 7:00pm - 9:00pm
You’re invited to an evening of swing dancing! During the event instructors will teach a group lesson with open dancing afterward! No partners or experience is necessary. Come right at 7 PM for a beginner lesson.
July 15th
The Farmer’s Market at Towncreek Vision
Towncreek Vision, 215 Sunnybrook Way Southeast, Leland, NC 28451 | 9:00am - 1:00pm
Towncreek Vision Corporation, a nonprofit organization located in Leland, announced today the launch of The Farmer’s Market at Towncreek Vision. The Grand Opening of its debut season will be held on Saturday - July 15th and will operate the first three Saturdays of each month through November 11th. Proceeds from the market will support new programs for children and senior citizens of Brunswick County.
Christmas in July
Moose Lodge 4610 Carolina Beach Rd, Wilmington, NC 28412 | 10:00am - 4:00pm
This is an indoor event rain or shine. Come shop with some local small businesses/ crafters. There is something for everyone.
Carlos Rising feat. Holy Heat w/ The Graes
Bourgie Nights | 127 Princess Street Wilmington, NC 28401, D oors 8pm. Show 9pm. $10 ADV $15 DOS
Whether he’s solo or with his band, Carlos Rising creates an unforgettable experience for all listeners with his soothing tone and diverse repertoire of original music. For the past 10 years Carlos has been playing shows and releasing songs that reach a plethora of audiences, including fans of Soul, RnB and Pop. Currently, Rising is a contestant on Season 23 of NBC’s the Voice, where he showcases his his vocal ability, artistry and genre versatility on Team Blake. Not only does Rising have the ability to connect with large audiences on a national scale, but also can thrive in intimate small environments where he encapsulates audiences with his original songs. Now based out of Wilmington NC, Carlos continues to play shows and write music, all in an effort to make his songs make a difference the lives of his listeners.
July 16th
Book Signing Event “Well Heeled in Paris” with Billy Cone
Art in Bloom Gallery | 6866 Main St, Wilmington, NC 28405 | 3:00pm - 5:00pm
We invite you to celebrate the newest book of photographs, “Well Heeled in Paris” by Billy Cone. Meet the artist, purchase your own copy of his book and join us for a book celebration and signing along with refreshments and conversation. The reception is free and open to the public.
July 20th
Morning Bliss Yoga at Lumina on Wrightsville Beach
Holiday Inn Resort Lumina on Wrightsville Beach - 1706 North Lumina Avenue Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480 | 8AM-9AM
Come enjoy a Blissful Morning Yoga Practice with the beautiful oceanfront backdrop. All practices will be tailored to your needs. This is an excellent way to start your morning after sunrise with some guided exercise by the beach.
July 21st
2023 Turtle Walk
Bald Head Island Conservancy 700 Federal Rd. 9 PM to 12 AM
As a special thank you to our members, we invite you to participate in our popular Turtle Walks! Meet at the Conservancy for a brief presentation in our Fleming Classroom about sea turtles and the BHI Conservancy’s renowned sea turtle protection program. Following the presentation, guests will accompany Conservancy staff to the beach to wait for word from our Sea Turtle Team about potential nesting or hatching sea turtle activity*. We are granted permission to conduct Turtle Walks through a special state permit that restricts us to a small groups in order to conserve this federally protected species. Due to limited space, Turtle Walks fill up very quickly. Reservations and proof of membership are required for this program.
*We cannot guarantee seeing sea turtles on any specific night.*
July 22nd
Beehive Barbie Retro Dance Party w/ The Beehive Blondes
Sat Jul 22nd 9:30pm - 12:00am
“Come On Barbie, Let’s Go Party!”
Wilmington’s favorite Retro DJ duo / Party Starters The Beehive Blondes are BACK + kicking off Summer FUN vibes with a Barbie themed Retro Dance Party!
The event will coincide with the Barbie movie release (comes out the same weekend and stars Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling as Barbie and Ken) at Wilmington’s new retro bar, The Eagle’s Dare, located in a refurbished 1950′s gas station.
The Beehive Blondes will you get you on the dance floor with Barbie-inspired tracks from the 60s thru the 00′s.
We think every girl has a bit of Barbie in her. And what’s a Barbie dance party without Ken?! All are welcome
Suggested Attire: THINK PINK
All pink or a pop of pink 🎀
Prizes for “Best Dressed” and “Best Dancer”
Barbie photo op fun with Dare to Dream’s ‘73 pink VW Bus and ‘60 pink Nash Metropolitan Convertible, as well as our own Beehive Barbie box!
Early Bird tickets are $15.
Tickets will be available at the door for $25.
July 23rd
Modern Rock 98.7 Presents 30th Anniversary Celebration of Reggae Redemption
Ironclad Brewery 115 N 2nd St. Wilmington Sunday, July 23rd, 2023 | Doors at 5:00pm || Showtime at 6:30pm
Join us for the 30th anniversary & 2nd Annual Reggae Ball featuring the legendary Yellowman, all proceeds go to Keep Your Hands Off Me, Inc. The Legendary Dancehall Reggae Don Dada, King Yellowman” will honor the Night Nurse and countless adoring fans of his music by headlining this amazing 30th Anniversary Celebration and 2nd Annual Reggae Ball. General Admission: $35
VIP: $50 (VIP Ticket holders have access to a separate bar and viewing space upstairs in venue)
July 27th
History & Architecture Walking Tour of Wilmington
Thursday, July 27 · 9:30 - 11am EDT, 1 Orange Street, Wilmington, NC 28401
Walking tour in Historic downtown Wilmington. One and a half mile, 1 1/2 hour walking loop through residential, church and commercial districts.
Learn about town from colonial to current day. See the city’s most significant buildings. Discuss economy, the Confederacy, and the film industry.
July 28th
Airlie Entertainment Presents – Sanctuary | 115 N 2nd Street, Wilmington NC 28401 | 9 PM, 21+
Join us on July 28th & 29th for an unforgettable night at the tasteful yet rustic Ironclad Brewery. This year we will be running five hand selected visual artists, three professional flow artists, a handful of live painters. You’ll have up to 10 vendors to shop from, and an incredible array of funky, experimental, and bass heavy artists of all tempos to get down to.
July 29th
Fair Bluff Watermelon Festival
Riverside Drive, Fair Bluff, NC 28439 | 9:00am - 3:00pm
Come join us for the annual Fair Bluff Watermelon Festival in Fair Bluff, NC. There will be Watermelon contests, a parade, as well as a duck race. Make your plans now to attend
Rock You Like A Hurricane
YMCA Ogden Activity Center, 7207 Ogden Business Lane, Wilmington, NC 28411 | 3:00pm - 8:00pm
Watch your local Cape Fear Roller Derby Team take on skaters from all over in this action-packed triple header! Get to meet and greet all your favorite skaters while enjoying local food and action on skates!
Tickets are $15 with children 10 and under FREE!
Summer Sunshine Night Market
The Green at Hawthorne at Oleander, 3515 Adirondack Way | 4:00pm - 8:00pm
Summer Sunshine in the NC makes us thankful for ice cream, great community, and night markets! Join us for all the fun!
25+ Local Vendors
Amazing Food
Happy Music
Golden Raffle
Old Hollywood On The Cape Fear Charity Fashion Show & Fundraiser
Warehouse on Water, 15 South Water Street, Wilmington, NC 28401 | 6:00pm - 10:00pm
This sophisticated event channels the elegance and allure of Hollywood’s Golden Age. Old Hollywood On The Cape Fear features a runway show with models wearing vintage and retro-inspired clothing, as well as modern designer pieces that capture the glamour of the era. In addition to the fashion show, there will be a variety of activities and experiences for guests to enjoy, such as premium cigars, raffles, and a silent auction with exclusive items and experiences. The event will also offer a range of food and drinks, with a focus on classic cocktails and hors d’oeuvres that evoke the sophistication of Old Hollywood. 2 Bros Coastal Cuisine Food Truck will also be there and they will be donating a portion of their proceeds to the event, so you can feel good about satisfying your cravings. Not only will you get to indulge in some mouth-watering Sandwiches, but you’ll also be supporting a great cause.
Pre-sale Tickets: $25
July 30th
GRiZMAS in July Beach Party - Benefiting OCEAN CURE
Sunday, July 30 · 1pm EDT
Get an extra dose of GRiZ with special guest Flamingosis at the GRiZMAS in July Beach Party!
Enjoy the sensational outdoor concert riverside when the saxophone playing GRiZ, DJ Grant Kwiecinski, returns to Wilmington spinning his signature musical style. Santa’s coming early with a little two-day GRiZmas in July featuring different opening acts each day.
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