Best Events and Festivals In Wilmington, NC
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The Doirons
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Experience Wilmington, NC’s vibrant culture and community spirit with these top events and festivals celebrating music, art, food, and more.
From annual traditions to one-of-a-kind celebrations, Wilmington offers diverse events that showcase the city’s rich heritage and creative energy.
Whether you’re a resident or a visitor exploring the area, these festivals and events will surely entertain and inspire you.
2. Riverfest
Wilmington
Experience the excitement of Riverfest, a lively street festival held along the scenic Cape Fear River in downtown Wilmington.
This annual event features arts and crafts vendors, food trucks, live music, and entertainment for all ages.
Explore the bustling streets, browse local artisans’ wares, and sample delicious food and drinks while soaking in the festive atmosphere of this popular Wilmington tradition.
3. Cape Fear Craft Beer Week
Wilmington
Celebrate the art of craft brewing during Cape Fear Craft Beer Week, a yearly event honoring the region’s flourishing craft beer culture.
This week, with activities like brewery tours, tap takeovers, beer tastings, and exclusive events, provides beer aficionados with a chance to discover new flavors and engage with the area’s brewers.
Be sure not to overlook the Beer and BBQ Festival, one of the standout festivities of the entire week.
4. Wilmington Wine & Food Festival
Wilmington
Indulge in culinary delights at the Wilmington Wine & Food Festival, an annual showcase of the region’s finest food and wine offerings.
This multi-day event features wine tastings, cooking demonstrations, gourmet dinners, and culinary competitions hosted by local chefs and vintners.
Savor delicious dishes, sip on fine wines, and celebrate the flavors of Wilmington at this premier gastronomic festival.
5. Carolina Beach Music Festival
Carolina Beach
Dance the day away at the Carolina Beach Music Festival, an annual beachside bash celebrating the music and culture of the Carolina coast.
Held at Carolina Beach, this day-long event features live performances by beach music bands, shag dancing contests, and food and drink vendors offering classic beach fare.
Bring your dancing shoes and join the fun at this beloved coastal tradition.
6. Cucalorus Film Festival
Wilmington
Immerse yourself in the world of independent film at the Cucalorus Film Festival, an annual showcase of cutting-edge cinema and creative storytelling.
Held in various venues throughout downtown Wilmington, this multi-day festival features screenings, panel discussions, workshops, and networking events for filmmakers and cinephiles alike.
Discover groundbreaking films, meet industry professionals, and experience the magic of cinema at this dynamic festival.
7. Wilmington Beer Week
Wilmington
Raise a glass to craft beer at Wilmington Beer Week, an annual celebration of the city’s thriving craft beer scene.
This week-long event features beer tastings, tap takeovers, brewery tours, and special events hosted by local breweries and beer-centric establishments.
Sample various brews, meet the brewers, and discover new favorites while exploring Wilmington’s vibrant beer culture.
8. N.C. Jazz Festival
Wilmington
Dive into the N.C. Jazz Festival, an annual event in downtown Wilmington that celebrates jazz music.
Showcasing performances from some of the world’s leading jazz musicians and bands, the festival allows jazz lovers to experience live music spanning from classic to modern styles.
Make sure to catch the Late Night All-Star Jam Session, a standout feature of the festival’s program.
9. Wilmington Wine Festival
Wilmington
Unleash the excitement at the Wilmington Wine Festival, a weekend festivity dedicated to wine in downtown Wilmington.
With a lineup of tastings, gourmet wine dinners, educational seminars, and live performances, this festival allows wine enthusiasts to explore new varietals and gain insights from leading winemakers.
Immerse yourself in the event’s offerings and toast to the growing wine culture of the city.
10. Cape Fear Comedy Festival
Wilmington
Prepare for a humor weekend at the Cape Fear Comedy Festival, held annually in downtown Wilmington.
This stand-up comedy extravaganza features acts by national and local comedians, providing a platform for comedy fans to experience live stand-up, improv shows, and comedy workshops.
Gather your friends and brace yourself for a series of entertaining and laugh-filled days.
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