Events in Brunswick County, NC

Fantasy Fiction Book Club at Rourk Branch Library offers a monthly gathering where readers explore fantastical stories and enjoy engaging conversation in a welcoming setting. Newcomers to the genre and longtime fans are equally encouraged to take part. Registration is requested for this month’s program.

Enjoy two hours of American mahjong at Tap Time, with tables set on the Amelia’s side and plenty of space to settle in with dinner and a drink. Choose the format that fits your experience when registering. Open Play is for players who already know the fundamentals and can play independently, while beginners may participate but should expect no formal instruction. Guided Play is for those who understand the basics and prefer support from an instructor, including help with the Charleston, selecting hands, strategy, and keeping the game moving. This is not a first-time lesson and assumes you have completed an introductory class or already know the rules. Arrive early to take advantage of Tap Time’s half-price appetizer options or order chicken, shrimp, or beef tacos from the Taco Tuesday menu. Bring your 2026 NMJL card; mahjong sets will be provided. Food and beverages are not included in the ticket and may be purchased directly from Tap Time. Space is limited for both formats, and registration includes selecting a table.

Held at Seaside United Methodist Church in Sunset Beach, this monthly support group brings people together for conversation, encouragement, and a bit of movement set to music. Sheriff Brian Chism will make a special appearance for a friendly push up challenge. The gathering highlights fun, awareness, strength, and hope, and it is open to everyone. The focus is on arriving strong and leaving even stronger.

Enjoy a family-friendly fall celebration featuring a Gospel-focused Trunk or Treat. The festivities will go on regardless of the weather, with all activities moving indoors if conditions are poor. Look forward to complimentary hot dogs, popcorn, and cotton candy, along with bounce attractions, games, and plenty of treats. Fun is planned for every age group.

This monthly gathering at Rourk Branch Library brings together readers who enjoy historical fiction shaped by real events, places, and lives. The group delves into powerful stories from around the world through lively dialogue and thoughtful conversation in a friendly setting.

At Crossroads Gathering Place, this hands-on crafting session invites participants to create a set of two solid wood cutting boards with a fall theme. Choose from design options including decorative papers, ribbons, colors, wording, and small critter accents. Enjoy a welcoming environment that encourages creativity and conversation while making seasonal decor to take home. Registration and payment of $40 are required in advance, and walk-ins are not available.

At Sea Breeze Harley-Davidson, celebrate Halloween with CVMA Silver Coast Chapter 15-13 through free pumpkin painting, a festive Trunk or Treat, and a pumpkin pie eating contest. Costumes are encouraged for all ages, and pre-registration is available for the pie eating competition.

Explore the world of isopods with tactile activities and interactive lessons that share surprising facts about their place in the ecosystem. Designed for curious minds of all ages, the program highlights where these crustaceans live, how they survive, and the roles they fulfill in nature. Get acquainted with invertebrates and gain a clear understanding of these remarkable creatures.

Nowcat brings a Halloween-themed set to Grape and Ale on Oak Island. This songwriting group entertains crowds with a blend of Americana, jam rock, and rhythm and blues, performing a range of hit songs spanning the 20th and 21st centuries. Expect a lively atmosphere and a soundtrack suited to the spooky spirit of the season.

This demonstration event pairs shopping with snacks at Southport Ace Hardware.

This event focuses on uplifting both emerging and established women in the workplace by sharing practical guidance, encouragement, resources, and opportunities that support lasting success. It stems from a Women in Business initiative that brings together a supportive chamber network, while also welcoming involvement from business community supporters through sponsorship, recruitment, and promotion. The program emphasizes building confidence and career momentum, helping participants turn strengths into new possibilities, clarify their passions, and map a clear path forward. It nurtures meaningful connections on professional and personal levels, celebrates influential leaders who mentor others, and connects emerging businesswomen with people and tools that can advance their goals.

This event features an evening of live music from Dave’s Garage Band with dinner and dancing. The program also includes a silent auction, guest speakers, a 50/50 raffle, and a salute to the nation’s warriors.

Bingo takes place on the first and third Thursday at VFW Post #10400 in Boiling Spring Lakes. Arriving early is recommended to enjoy dinner and secure a good seat. A Food Drive donation earns a complimentary Small Jackpot card. The event is family friendly, open to ages 6 and up, and children must be supervised.

Explore unique, handcrafted pieces created by members of the Artisans Association at this marketplace. The event takes place at the Homer E. Wright Event Center, across from the main gate of St. James Plantation. Discover beautifully made works by local artists that make thoughtful gifts or a special treat for yourself. Admission is free, with both cash and credit accepted. Food trucks will be on site.

Southport Studio Artists presents the 1st Friday Gallery Walk, welcoming visitors into what is described as Southport’s only working art studio. Attendees can meet the artists and explore exhibits that change each month, offering something new with every visit. A free trolley travels around town for easy access, and the experience features beverages, music, food and plenty of fun.

At The Artisans Gallery on Howe, this monthly evening features live music on the porch and lively conversation throughout the gallery. Guests can meet featured artists, with wine and light refreshments available, and browse new works throughout the space. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, bringing together art, friends, and coastal charm.

Presented by The Music Traders in Shallotte, this monthly jam at Makai Brewing Company takes place on the second Wednesday of each month. Attendees can listen or bring an instrument to participate. Lyrics and chord charts will be shown on one of the venue’s televisions to make it easy to play along. The event is offered in collaboration with Makai Brewing Company.

LRB performs for the first time at Cape Side Brewing in Southport, taking the Cape Side stage for a debut appearance.

Deep Creek Soul brings an energetic rock performance to the patio at 49th St Grill Bar, turning the deck into a lively hub of live music.

At Brunswick Beer and Cider, a November networking luncheon brings people together for conversation, collaboration, and fresh opportunities. Participants are encouraged to bring business cards and prepare a crisp, one minute introduction to share. The lunch setting offers time to meet peers and build new connections.

Food will be distributed.

Now in its 12th year, the Calabash Turkey Trot offers options for every pace with a 10K, a 5K, and the Mashed Potato Miler. Participants seeking an extra challenge can complete all three as part of the Ultimate Thanksgiving Challenge. Discount code DUNWELL15 is available.

Deep Creek Soul takes the stage at Pirates Deck for a live performance featuring a blend of rock, blues, and soul.

Craft bracelets, earrings, wine charms, keychains, and bookmarks at a bead bar, turning handmade pieces into presents that do double good. Each item helps feed and support children in Haiti, making the act of giving part of the gift. For details, call (910) 477-6050.

Enjoy a festive holiday tea at the Southport Community Building, featuring seasonal entertainment. Presented by the City of Southport Community Relations Department with support from the Winterfest Tea Committee, this gathering offers a warm setting to savor the spirit of the season. Tickets are $50. Proceeds support Hope Harbor Home, Matthews Ministry, and Providence Home.

Gingerbread and Gigawatts at the Brunswick Energy & Education Center offers a hands-on STEM experience as part of the Winterfest Festival. Kids and families can design and decorate their own gingerbread creations while exploring the science behind energy. Santa will make a special appearance, and families can take a free photo with him to capture the holiday memories. Presented by Brunswick Nuclear Plant.

Franklin Square Park becomes a festive showcase as Southport’s Garden Club presents a community celebration filled with dozens of illuminated and beautifully decorated Christmas trees placed throughout the grounds. The displays are set on timers to light the way for evening strolls, and individuals, businesses, churches, and public entities are welcome to register and display their own trees. Family-friendly activities include children’s crafts and games, visits with Santa or The Grinch, and caroling for both kids and adults. Decorated silk wreaths suitable for gifting or home décor are offered through a silent auction, and guests can purchase festive floral arrangements and tree ornaments created by Garden Club members. Light refreshments are provided. Proceeds help fund the Club’s sponsorships and its ongoing work to highlight the city’s green side through planting displays and maintenance in Southport.

Winterfest continues with a community cookie competition at the Southport Community Building. Presented by The State Port Pilot, this free event invites attendees to cast a vote for their favorite cookies. Those interested in entering can request participation details by emailing cookies@stateportpilot.com. Additional updates will appear in The State Port Pilot, in the Holiday edition of Coast magazine, and on Facebook and the newspaper’s website.

Discover CRCI’s mission and programs while hearing personal stories that show how recovery happens at this Lunch N' Learn. The session features guest speakers, tours, and testimonies that encourage thoughtful conversation about faith-based recovery and its impact on the community.

An outdoor screening of the Christmas movie Polar Express will take place on the Fort Johnston Garrison Lawn as part of WINTERFEST, a yearly favorite. The event is sponsored by the City of Southport. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets, and hot chocolate and snacks will be provided by Intracoastal Realty, Southport.

Golfers, alumni, and friends of Brunswick Community College come together for the 2026 Dolphins Athletics Annual Golf Tournament at The Links at Brick Landing in Ocean Isle Beach. This community-focused event blends friendly competition with school spirit to benefit Dolphins Athletics. Funds raised support student-athletes by strengthening programs, enhancing their overall experience, and expanding opportunities to compete and develop. The day features 18 holes of play with a cart and lunch included, along with opportunities to meet student-athletes and hear how community support makes a difference.

NC singer-songwriter Paige King Johnson brings an evening of live music to Seahorse Eats & Drinks.

Celebrate the season in Downtown Southport at a festive gathering featuring handmade arts and crafts, homegrown winter vegetables, cut flowers, and an array of homemade goodies. Look for baked treats, honey, jellies, and pickles among the many offerings. Organized by the City of Southport Community Relations Department.

Experience live jazz from Treblesome, a jazz trio, on the Fort Johnston lawn as part of a performing arts program during Winterfest. The event is sponsored by Up Your Arts.

Create three-dimensional glass trees adorned with crystal ornaments in a hands-on class suitable for every experience level. All supplies are provided, and the cost is $95 per student. Class size is limited, and reservations can be made by calling Barn and Garden at 910-477-6050. The class takes place at the Barn and Garden shop.

The Southport Train and Toy Show brings model railroading to Indian Trail Meeting Hall with traveling layouts presented by the Grand Strand Model Railroaders. A standout feature is an N scale layout crafted with a Woodland Scenics foam kit that forms realistic hills and terrain. The display includes miniature buildings, vehicles, figures, and detailed scenery sourced from hobby shops and online, showing how N scale can capture lifelike detail in a compact space.

Celebrate the season with a family-friendly afternoon at the Southport Community Building featuring Santa and favorite holiday characters. Enjoy crafts, games, and music, along with entertainment for kids of all ages. Snacks and drinks will be available, plus an ugly sweater contest and a holiday photo booth, with a few surprises planned. Presented by the Youth Arts Council and Brunswick Arts Council. In the spirit of giving, attendees are encouraged to bring a donation such as cash, a canned good, or a boxed food item to share holiday cheer.

Now in its 32nd year, the Southport Winterfest Flotilla brings a shimmering parade of boats to the waterfront, presented by Cape Fear Yacht Club, Downtown Southport, Inc., and the City of Southport. Bring chairs and blankets to relax and watch Christmas lights reflect across the water along Southport’s waterfront. The route runs from Old American Fish to a newly added lighted buoy near Kingsley Street park, weather permitting, before heading back. Cape Fear Radio will broadcast live, and students from the Southport Elementary School Art Program will judge both sail and power vessels. Artwork by the student judges will be displayed at the NC Maritime Museum at Southport.

River Sound closes out its 2026 appearances at Oak Island Moose Lodge with a rock set that brings warmth and holiday cheer. Members enjoy free admission, and guests are welcome with a cover charge.

This event offers food distribution.

Now in its fifth year, this beach lantern walk brings the community together at dusk on the sand beside Oak Island Pier. Paper lanterns, either handmade or purchased, are lit with battery-powered lights, since open flames are not allowed. After nightfall, the walk moves east from the pier to a point just beyond the McGlamery Street beach access before returning, taking advantage of a wide stretch of shoreline. Participants can prepare a lantern in advance, attach a bamboo stick or similar handle for carrying, and place lights inside so it glows. Wearing dark clothing helps the lantern take center stage. The event welcomes all ages, with a special emphasis on children, while pets should watch from the sidelines rather than join the walk. Updates will be shared on the event page, and any posts attempting to sell tickets or shirts should be ignored.