Free events in Leland, NC

Smart Start offers a free Kaleidoscope Play & Learn group at the Main Library of New Hanover County Public Library. Intended for families with children ages 0 to 5, these weekly sessions provide a welcoming space to play and learn together. All families are welcome, and no pre-registration is required.

Barzarre hosts a weekly open mic that celebrates every kind of performance. The lineup spans live music, comedy, improv, spoken word, hip hop, and offbeat talents, creating an unpredictable variety night. On-site signups are available and admission is free. Newcomers and veterans alike share work that is raw or polished, in a setting that encourages experiments and big swings. Touring musicians sometimes appear for featured sets. A projector and screen with HDMI are available for multimedia, so visual elements can be part of the act. Affordable drinks are available, and even a kazoo solo can find a moment in the spotlight.

A community drum and dance gathering hosted by The Barzarre brings together drummers, percussionists, and dancers of all experience levels. Admission is free, seating is casual, and the circle is open to all. Expect an open jam where hand drums and movement shape the groove as participants build rhythms together. New participants are encouraged to remove rings, watches, and bracelets before playing a hand drum and to ask permission before using someone else’s instrument. Balance playing with attentive listening, keep parts simple, and lock in with the pulse and rhythm. If questions arise about etiquette, ask Ron, the creator of Drum and Dance Downtown. Each rhythm gathering has its own style, so bring a positive spirit. Kindness, respect, fun, and a bit of shared magic set the tone.

Smart Start brings the Circle of Parents program to the Wilmington community, creating a welcoming space for caregivers of children ages 0 to 8 and for families of children with special needs up to age 12. Hosted at Church of the Servant, the gathering starts with a shared family meal. Afterward, children head to their own group while parents take part in guided conversations with peers. Parents, caregivers, and older siblings are welcome. There is no cost to participate.

This movie night at The Eagle’s Dare features the film adaptation of The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood. Admission is free with an RSVP. Drinks are available for purchase at the bar. Attendees may bring their own movie snacks and are expected to clean up afterward to respect the venue.

Smart Start facilitates Circle of Parents gatherings in the Wilmington community for families with young children. Parents and caregivers are welcome, and older siblings can attend, too. The gathering begins with a shared family meal, after which children take part in their own group while adults engage in a parent discussion. There is no cost to participate.

Settle into a shared workspace for a no-cost coworking day designed to help you make progress on your to-do list. Complimentary coffee and snacks are provided.

Hosted by FIT4MOM Wilmington, Sip + Stroll Moms Club, and 4th Trimester Mission, Coffee Walk + Talk is a free community gathering created with new moms in the 4th trimester in mind, especially those waiting for exercise clearance. It offers an easygoing walk outdoors and space for meaningful conversation, and mothers at any stage are welcome to attend. Complimentary coffee will be provided. Meet near shelter 5 to grab a cup before heading out for a relaxed stroll and supportive connection.

Smart Start offers a free play and learn group for families with children from birth to age 5 at New Hanover County Northeast Branch Library. All families are welcome to participate. The group meets weekly, no advance registration is required, and families can begin attending at any time.

A fixture in Wilmington for 23 years, the Riverfront Farmers Market brings together area growers, food makers, and artisans for a lively open-air shopping experience. Browse produce grown nearby, meats from pasture to plate, fresh eggs, honey from local beekeepers, freshly roasted coffee, chocolates, breads, muffins, cakes, jams, salsas, and more. Alongside the farm goods, discover one-of-a-kind handmade creations from local artisans, with new finds to uncover on each visit. There is no admission charge, and leashed pets are welcome. With thanks to Cumulus Media and Excite Credit Union for their support.

The September Food Pantry provides food distribution at Woodburn Presbyterian Church. Food will be available for pickup during the event hours.

Backspin Social in Wilmington, NC hosts World Tavern Poker, part of the nation’s largest bar poker league, with free no limit Texas Hold’em tournaments. There is no cost to enter and no gambling. The atmosphere welcomes both first-timers and experienced players, offering a chance to build skills, connect with fellow players, and enjoy friendly competition. Participants earn league points that count toward local, regional, and national standings, creating pathways to championship events and major prizes.