Events in Wilmington, NC

Explore the world of Outlander while discovering the real history woven into its romance on a guided walk through downtown. Trace the paths of Claire and Jamie Fraser as you hear stories of Colonial Wilmington and the Scottish Highlanders who arrived in the 1770s. The route includes about a dozen notable stops, blending details from the books and the Starz series with North Carolina’s past. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water. Tickets are $25 plus tax. To reserve, call 910-762-0570. All sales are final, and tickets may be transferred to another walking tour within the same calendar year.

Experience a calm, reflective session in the galleries focused on mindfulness, a practice of paying kind attention to the present moment without judgment. With steady practice, meditation can enhance awareness and nurture clarity, balance, focus, and resilience. While its roots trace to Buddhism, this approach is offered in a secular way and is welcoming to all. The session is led by Gabriella Carrizo, a Board-Certified Music Therapist and Registered Yoga Teacher with more than ten years of experience in meditation and yoga. Her work emphasizes self-care, healing, and self-discovery through integrated mind-body practices. A $5 suggested donation is appreciated. The galleries can feel cool, so bring an extra layer for comfort. For questions or concerns about accessibility, contact Georgia Mastroieni, Deputy Director of Operations, at (910) 726-9492 or georgia@cameronartmuseum.org.

The Pleasure Island Fall Surf Fishing Challenge is a fall event dedicated to surf fishing.

River Sound comes back to the Oak Island Moose Lodge for a fun fall evening. Members enjoy free admission, and guests are welcome with a cover charge.

Part of the Sunset Live Music Series, this free show features Dubtown Cosmonauts performing at The Boatyard with a waterfront backdrop as the sun goes down. The group, rooted in Wilmington’s coastal scene, delivers lively sets that blend funky original tunes, adventurous improvisation, and a wide mix of covers that keep the crowd guessing. Admission is free and the atmosphere welcomes families, friends, and dogs. Seating is limited, so bringing your own chairs is recommended.

Murder at the Speakeasy turns End of Days Distillery in Wilmington, North Carolina into an immersive, story-driven investigation. Participants play original characters and receive a role brief, scripts, and evidence to sift through as the narrative unfolds. The twist keeps everyone guessing, since the culprit does not know they are the culprit and the victim could be anyone. Characters are assigned on a first come, first served basis, and the experience leans on curiosity and collaborative problem solving rather than acting. Expect to follow clues, interview suspects, and work together to assemble what really happened. The evening includes a planned intermission for conversation and strategizing. Themed food and cocktails are available for purchase, and arriving early is welcome for relaxing, grabbing a drink or bite, and exploring the distillery’s lore. This chapter centers on a web of connected guests tied to the distillery’s present and hidden past. They gather for an exclusive Reserve 47 tasting in the speakeasy, and unsettling events unfold during and after the pour, linking old secrets to the present. Admission is 20 dollars per person. RSVP and advance payment are required to choose a character and receive a write up. Costumes are encouraged but not required. Refunds are not offered within 24 hours of the event. Payment can be made via Venmo, Zelle, or PayPal, and the organizers can accommodate alternative arrangements on request. Those traveling from out of town can ask for suggestions on places to stay or ride options.

Friday Night Magic takes center stage at Cape Fear Games with a Standard Showdown. Play Standard in Swiss rounds with an $8 entry. Store credit is awarded per match win, with payouts of $5 per win if the event runs three rounds, or $4 per win if it runs four. First place earns a Standard Showdown promo card. Any player who finishes undefeated receives one pack from the most recent Standard set. Only sets that have had a prerelease count as Standard for this event. Entry can be purchased in store. A Wizards EventLink account is needed. The shop also hosts Modern, Standard, Commander, and Draft each week.

Rustic Ghouls features a social painting session where creativity and sipping go together. Beginners are welcome, with an easygoing vibe focused on fun.

Little River Band brings the 50 Years and More Tour to the stage, honoring a legacy of multi-platinum releases and hit songs from the 1970s and 80s. Global sales across albums, CDs, and digital downloads have topped 360 million, and the show spotlights the band’s signature harmonies. The performance is guided by 46-year member Wayne Nelson, the lead vocalist and bass player who has contributed to 25 of the group’s albums. The lineup has evolved since the band’s beginnings in Australia while pursuing success in America, and along the way it earned praise from Eagles founding member Glenn Frey for standout vocals. The evening salutes beloved favorites like Reminiscing and Lady, offering music and memories from across a remarkable career.

This documentary profiles Luis Valdez, a Latino director and playwright who advanced Chicano storytelling from agricultural roots to the movie screen with works like La Bamba and Zoot Suit. It traces a career shaped by political resistance and industry skepticism, showing how his art has produced landmark stories that challenge, celebrate, and expand the American narrative. The film is both a biography and a clear affirmation of Chicano identity. A social hour at Jengo's Backyard Bar will take place before the screening at Jengo's Playhouse. Presented with support from South Arts, the National Endowment for the Arts, UNCW’s Kenan Auditorium, the Cucalorus Film Foundation, and WHQR.

Celebrate a Wilmington tradition that has been part of the community for 23 years at the Riverfront Farmers Market. Browse stalls filled with locally grown produce, pasture-raised meats, farm-fresh eggs, local honey, roasted coffee, chocolates, fresh bread, muffins, cakes, jams, salsa, and more. Discover one-of-a-kind, handcrafted goods from local artisans, with new finds each visit. Admission is free, and leashed pets are welcome. The market offers thanks to Cumulus Media and Excite Credit Union.

Take a leisurely, hour-long nature walk at Greenfield Lake as part of a monthly series. This outing offers time in the fresh air with friends and family, along with opportunities to meet new people. All are welcome and no registration is required. The walk begins at the boathouse, and a limited number of binoculars will be available.

Celebrate Halloween and Oktoberfest at once with two themed drink specials, including a cauldron-inspired spooky drink and a beer special that comes with an exclusive event glass to keep. The festivities feature food, live music, and vendors, plus trick-or-treating and a costume contest for people and their pets.

Set sail for a casual One Piece Card Game tournament featuring Standard format with Swiss rounds. Entry is $8, and a Bandai account is required for play, with entry available for purchase in store. Every participant receives one OP Tournament Pack. Store credit is awarded per match win, with $5 per win when the event runs three rounds, or $4 per win when it runs four. Any undefeated player earns one pack from the most recent Standard set, and first place takes home one OP Winner pack. To qualify as Standard, sets must have had a prerelease.

Elmo’s Got the Moves brings the Sesame Street Live experience to the stage at the Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College, with Elmo and friends leading singalongs, dance breaks, and plenty of interactive fun. Familiar favorites such as Sunny Days, Elmo’s Got the Moves, and Letter of the Day are part of the lineup. Open to all ages, this upbeat production blends music, movement, and playful learning for the whole family. An optional Meet the Characters Photo Experience takes place after the performance. A separate Photo Experience ticket is required for every adult and child who wishes to participate. On the day of the show, pick up photo passes and instructions at the Box Office Will Call, then proceed to the designated area shortly after the show concludes. Bring a camera to capture the moment.

Nowcat performs at Southport Tap and Cellar with a set built around songs from recent recording sessions. They are songwriters and present a variety of hit songs from the 20th and 21st centuries in styles that include Americana, jam rock, and rhythm and blues. Known for engaging audiences wherever they perform, they bring a lively soundtrack to the room.

This tour shines a light on Wilmington’s darker past, highlighting notorious, unusual, and startling stories of murder, mayhem, and true crime. Narratives stretch from espionage during the tense 1940s to murders dating back to the city’s turbulent 1840s, with further accounts that trace how these events shaped Wilmington’s history.

Compete in a Magic: The Gathering Commander event that lets you choose your style of play, from relaxed social pods to high stakes, winner takes all matches. Entry is $7 with in store registration. The tournament runs in four player, single elimination pods. Casual pods include prize support, with each participant receiving a $5 store credit coin and the last player remaining earning two pulls from the promo card library. Participants should have a Wizards Eventlink account. Other weekly options are available for different formats, including Modern, Standard, Commander, and Draft.

Full Out Fright Night transforms PCC into an intense haunted house filled with eerie surprises, sudden scares, and unsettling moments at every turn. Created for visitors seeking maximum fright, this experience challenges even the boldest to brave what is waiting inside. Admission uses ticketed entry windows, and early entry is not permitted.

Franklin Square Park in Southport hosts the 42nd annual community walk organized by the Southport/Oak Island Interchurch Fellowship. After on-site registration, participants set out on a three-mile route that starts and finishes at the park, with clear signage along the way. The course passes six member churches where water is available. The gathering includes special music from the Children’s Choir of Trinity United Methodist Church and a brief prayer for community needs led by clergy from SOIICF congregations. Over the past 41 years the walk has raised $378,800 for local assistance such as rent support, help with water and electric bills, and efforts addressing food insecurity. A quarter of the funds also supports Church World Service, which helps people around the world address hunger and other essential needs. Those not walking can still participate by supporting a walker with a donation, becoming a Spirit Walker to raise funds, volunteering on the day, helping to promote the event within a church or group, or offering prayers for the effort and for neighbors facing hunger. For questions in advance, contact Margaret at 740-975-1697.

Pokémon League play features age-based divisions and the Standard format using Swiss pairings with single-game matches. The entry fee is $8, and all participants receive one POP pack. Prizes are awarded as store credit per match win, set at $5 per win for three-round events and $4 per win for four-round events. Players who finish undefeated receive one pack from the most recent Standard-legal set. Only sets that have had a prerelease are considered Standard. Entry can be purchased in store.

At Long Leaf Park in Wilmington, Full Send Racing brings a Halloween-themed running adventure for all ages. The 5K, designed for participants 12 and older, sends runners through a timeline of infamous eras with zombies on the prowl, trying to grab life flags from each belt. Finish among the first hundred while preserving at least one flag to earn a survivor medal. Registered runners also receive an official event T-shirt, with early sign-ups helping to secure preferred sizing. Families can opt for the Monster Mile, a friendly one-mile run or walk where costumes are welcome, treat bags come in handy for goodies along the course, and photo stops with cheerful characters add to the fun. A costume contest highlights standout looks for both individuals and teams, whether inspired by history, zombies, or favorite villains. Group savings are available when four or more register together, with additional discounts for larger teams. Proceeds benefit the Lyceum Academy Boosters to support educational travel and program opportunities for New Hanover High School students, aiming to remove financial barriers. The boosters operate independently and are not affiliated with New Hanover County Schools.

Backspin Social in Wilmington hosts World Tavern Poker, offering free No Limit Texas Hold'em tournaments presented by the largest bar poker league in the United States. Newcomers and seasoned players are welcome. There is no buy-in and the activity does not involve gambling. Expect a friendly setting to sharpen your skills, connect with other players, and collect points in the World Tavern Poker standings at the local, regional, and national levels, with chances to qualify for championship events and top prizes.

Pool tournaments at The Wild Goose feature an added incentive with half of the prize pool matched. Sundays are dedicated to 8 ball and Wednesdays focus on 9 ball. Each has a $10 buy in.

Acclaimed by The New York Times, The Washington Post, Entertainment Weekly, and Jimmy Fallon, this nine-time Tony Award winner, including Best Musical, is The Book of Mormon. The musical follows two unlikely missionary partners sent far from home to share their message, launching a comic journey marked by culture shock and unexpected lessons. With standing-room-only runs in London, on Broadway, and across North America, it has become a global sensation. Tickets are available to members.

This lunchtime networking event at Brunswick Beer and Cider is designed to help professionals build connections, collaborate, and explore new opportunities. Attendees are encouraged to bring business cards and prepare a concise, one minute power pitch to share. Expect a friendly, conversation-focused setting that makes it easy to meet people and exchange ideas.

The Book of Mormon brings a bold, laugh-filled story to the stage as an unlikely duo of missionaries is sent far from home to share their message. Winner of nine Tony Awards, including Best Musical, it has earned raves from major outlets such as the New York Times, the Washington Post, and Entertainment Weekly, with praise also voiced on The Tonight Show by Jimmy Fallon. Audiences in London, on Broadway, and across North America have packed theaters for this international hit. For this engagement, tickets are available to members, and season subscriptions are expected to be offered soon. Memberships and full series subscriptions are presented as a reliable way to secure prime seats for the season ahead.

Sip N Stitch at Outer Dunes offers a laid back space to work on crochet, knitting, embroidery, or any project you have in progress while enjoying conversation with fellow makers. The gathering welcomes all experience levels, including anyone who is simply curious.

Royal James hosts the kickoff of a local history cocktail series focused on the pirates, smugglers, privateers, and other rule-breakers tied to the Cape Fear. Historian Jim “Boo” McKee, a native of the area, shares stories of those who sailed these waters and the role the region played in their histories. Each installment features a cocktail created to match the evening’s theme. Those planning to eat are encouraged to do so before or after the talk, and ticket holders receive 20% off their food.

Experience a live celebration of Karen Carpenter’s unmistakable voice and the enduring songs of The Carpenters. From the creative team behind The Simon & Garfunkel Story, this newly crafted production features a full band and heartfelt storytelling that highlights the warmth, emotion, and musical brilliance of the iconic duo. Sing along and reminisce with beloved hits like “We’ve Only Just Begun,” “Close to You,” and “Rainy Days and Mondays,” as this tribute honors the quiet magic of Karen and Richard Carpenter.

A free community gathering hosted by FIT4MOM Wilmington, Sip + Stroll Moms Club, and 4th Trimester Mission offers a gentle coffee walk tailored for mothers in the fourth trimester who may not yet be cleared for exercise, as well as moms at any stage of motherhood. Expect fresh air, unhurried conversation, and a welcoming space to connect with other new moms. Complimentary coffee will be provided. Attendees can meet near shelter 5 to pick up a cup before setting out for an easy, social stroll.

Outback Presents brings Nurse Blake to the Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College with the BUT DID YOU DIE? tour. Expect a fresh set that mines the most outrageous moments from patient and family encounters, from over the top WebMD inspired self diagnoses to call lights hammered like game show buzzers. It is a night built for big laughs, especially for healthcare workers who could use a breather, and it is open to adults ages 18 and over.

Live music will be performed in the restaurant.

Pick up the pace or take it easy at one of Wilmington’s long-running and notably fast road races. The flat course suits runners aiming for speed as well as those out to enjoy the experience. Participants of all ages are welcome, and local students and their families are encouraged to lace up. Every registration helps fund the Wilmington Roadrunners Club Scholarship Program, which has awarded $30,000 in scholarships since 2015 to high school seniors from New Hanover, Brunswick, and Pender counties who are dedicated to running, lead in their schools, and give back to their communities. Entries include a race shirt while supplies last along with post race coffee and breakfast. This longstanding community tradition is presented by the Wilmington Roadrunners Club.

Food will be distributed at this event.

Enjoy a family friendly walk at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington on the Greene Track, featuring music, activities, and more. The Cape Fear Heart Walk celebrates heart health, honors survivors, and remembers loved ones affected by heart disease and stroke, with a focus on health and hope for every heartbeat.

Collectors Crusade United brings back the third annual Trick Or Treat Fest, a Wilmington convention celebrating all things horror and pop culture, hosted at Wilmington Elk's Lodge #532. The show fills the space with 90 tables featuring comic books, collectible toys, Pokémon cards and other trading card games, horror merchandise, anime goods, retro video games, vinyl and movies, handmade nerdy crafts, and creations from local artists. In the Halloween spirit, children can collect candy from participating vendor booths. Cosplay takes the spotlight with the event’s first cosplay contest hosted by Wilmingtons Cosplayers Unite. Sponsors include Right To Left Anime, Yellowdog Discs, and Game Giant. Admission is $5, with free entry for children 12 and under when accompanied by a paying adult. Vendor applications are open with a low table cost, and categories have limited availability. Collectors Crusade United is the sole contact for event inquiries.

Explore Riverlights while browsing goods from 30 local makers. A mobile petting zoo by Green Paw, seasonal beverages from Brighter Days, and a fall photo backdrop set the scene. Hot mini donuts from Donut NV will be available, and there will be a dog costume contest.

The 6th Annual Oak Island Witches Ride is a Halloween-themed community ride that brings locals and visitors together, highlights neighborhood restaurants, and raises support for Oak Island nonprofits. This edition benefits Sea Biscuit Wildlife Shelter and the Oak Island Sea Turtle Protection Program, with a suggested minimum donation of $10 per participant to one or both organizations. Donation links will be available soon. There is no registration. Indicate you are attending on the event page, then explore at your own pace. With well over 1,500 participants, there is no official start or finish for this adult-only ride. Visit as many venues as you like, enjoy food and drinks to support local businesses, and contribute to the benefiting nonprofits. Sponsors include Paul’s of Oak Island as the lead Cauldron Club sponsor, The Lazy Turtle and The Pirates Deck as Coven Circle sponsors, and The OKI Pub, Second Wind, Tranquil Harbour, and 49th Street Grill, Bar, & Patio as Broomstick Lounge sponsors. Featured watering holes include The Seahorse at Ocean Crest Pier, Duffers Pub & Grille at Oak Island Golf Club, The Elks Club, Solar Brewing, The Grape & Ale, Koko Cabana, Tipsy Tuna, Lonerider, and Rusty Hooks Dockside Grill for South Harbor Village neighbors. Be sure to stop at Salt64 for bottled water and special giveaways. Participants may ride bikes, LSVs, shuttles, the official Southport Trolley, Paradise Shuttle, or even brooms. Ride sober and smart. This event is for adults only, and dogs are not permitted unless they are certified service animals.

Enjoy the third annual Casino Night at The Terraces on Sir Tyler, featuring games, live music, and small bites with drinks, all in support of the local nonprofits Growing Resilience and Voyage. Advance ticket pricing starts at $60, and each admission includes $10,000 in play money to start the games plus a chance to win prizes in the raffle. Proceeds from ticket sales and sponsorships benefit the nonprofits and the surrounding community. Guests are encouraged to dress their best. Recommended attire is cocktail or semi-formal, with jackets and dresses suggested.

Watch the 1984 favorite Ghostbusters on a large high definition screen while an orchestra performs the score live on stage in sync with the film. This concert screening pairs the movie with a real time performance of Academy Award winning composer Elmer Berstein’s music for a seamless blend of cinema and live performance. Tickets go on sale.

A midnight release pajama party marks the arrival of ACOTAR 6 with a discussion of books 1 through 5 and shared theories. The gathering wraps up with participants picking up their copies of the new installment to take home.

Reconnect with Reiki at a welcoming community share focused on quieting external noise and tuning into inner wisdom. The gathering blends grounding practices, shared Reiki, meditation, and intentional connection to support release, clarity, and a deeper relationship with intuition, the body, emotions, and subtle energy. It is facilitated by Brooke Rowe, a Reiki Master Teacher and spiritual guide who holds a warm, steady space for healing, energetic connection, intuitive growth, and genuine community. Newcomers and longtime practitioners are both welcome. Participants can look forward to a guided grounding experience, opportunities to both offer and receive Reiki, time for intuitive exploration, and supportive conversation. Attendance is RSVP only so the space can be prepared with care for everyone. Contributions are accepted as a love-based donation or energy exchange to help sustain these community healing gatherings.

Sip N Stitch brings makers together at Outer Dunes Brewing in Wilmington, NC for a casual evening of handcrafts and conversation. Participants can bring crochet, knitting, embroidery, or any work in progress and settle in to stitch while they chat. All experience levels are welcome, including anyone who is simply curious about getting started.

This open jam welcomes musicians for live music and a creative atmosphere. It is scheduled every other Wednesday between stand up comedy nights. Domestic beers are $2.50 all day and night. Admission is free for ages 21 and up.

Haunted Forest brings a pre party and a main event to WalkerWorld Organic Artist Retreat in Castle Hayne, offering a Haunted Trail, live music and immersive experiences across multiple attractions. The pre party features the Haunted Trail, a performance by Heter Pan's Murder Mystery Band and a costume theme of pirates and wenches. One evening is designated as Family Night with free admission for kids. The main event expands the festivities with additional Haunted Trail sessions and performances by Dubtown Cosmonauts, Domocile, Acoustic Possums, Dirty Dead, Tripodacus, $2 Holla, Hyperloops and a Superhero Jam. Additional highlights include Megan Leah, a psychic medium, visual showcases from Bryan Stacy Art and Evol Gene, DJs, jugglers, spinners and side show acts. An outdoor lounge nods to Mystery Science Theatre, and live art sessions feature Zack Weaver, Brian Jones, Pat Briney and Lacey Vilandry. Tickets are required for entry. Options include a pre party ticket at $25 that covers the Haunted Trail, a main event ticket at $50 that includes the Haunted Trail and live entertainment, a $75 main event option that adds a commemorative T-shirt, a $100 pass covering both days and vendor tickets at $25 that permit selling merchandise, goods or services. Vendors who plan to participate both days need two vendor tickets. Lodging passes are available in limited quantities. Event guidelines include no fireworks, no illegal drugs and no weapons. Dogs are not allowed, cats are permitted and costumes are encouraged. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

At Hotel Ballast in Wilmington, North Carolina, PokeKon Fest brings a new all Pokemon show for all ages, featuring voice actors, vendors, and artists, plus panels, trivia, and retro, video game, and cosplay contests.

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.

A second annual romantasy ball brings a Gothic Regency atmosphere to Wilmington, setting the stage for an evening of shadowed elegance and clandestine romance. Hosted at The Elia on Halloween night, the celebration features dancing, live entertainment, food, a marketplace of vendors, appearances by attending authors, and immersive touches that heighten the sense of fantasy. Guests are encouraged to arrive in finery that channels a Bridgerton-inspired society affair with a gothic edge, from sweeping gowns to gleaming jewels. Each ticket arrives as a formal invitation that also serves as entry, and inside is a choice to align with one of five courts, with further surprises revealed upon arrival.

Wilmington’s goth night marks Halloween with a European-style celebration at The Barzarre, inspired by the German Die schwarze Szene tradition that brings together the full spectrum of dark music. The soundtrack spans synth pop, cold wave, post-punk, goth, dark folk with medieval influences, contemporary dark metal, and more, with an emphasis on new releases from around the world alongside a few timeless favorites. Atmospheric touches like bubble fog and lasers help set the mood, and videos on the big screen may include flashing patterns. Strobe lights are not used, but those with photosensitivity should take care. This event is open to all ages and admission is free.

Mark fifteen years with a casual day centered on fishing, sunshine, and good times. Enjoy a welcoming setting with plenty of chances to meet new friends.

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

This annual fall consignment event focuses on kids and holiday gifting, offering a wide range of apparel and everyday essentials at budget-friendly prices. Expect bargains for infants, children, juniors, and maternity, including clothing, shoes, accessories, toys, books, bedding, sports gear, games, outdoor equipment, furniture, decor, and more. The selection covers all seasons and occasions, with items that are new, like-new, and gently used. It is a convenient place to find stocking stuffers, grab bags, Secret Santa surprises, and swap gifts. Public sale days offer free admission. An early shopping period provides complimentary entry for new parents, foster and adoptive parents, grandparents, teachers, military, and first responders. Early access is also available with a donation valued at $10 in products or cash to the Diaper Bank of NC, and each donation admits two adults. Children are always admitted free. Free parking is available across from the church, and accessible parking is offered in the adjacent lot.

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.

The Bend, a community entertainment space shaded by trees in Wilmington’s Ogden neighborhood, features live music from The Hatch Brothers with Spencer Carlson.

The Electric Light Orchestra Experience takes the stage at the Wilson Center - Cape Fear Community College.

At the Holiday Inn Lumina at Wrightsville Beach, volunteers will gather for a collaborative photo-sorting session focused on the Marshall Morgan Collection. The aim is to complete the last 250,000 images and, with strong turnout, conclude the Big Picture Sort series. The plan calls for 20 Table Captains, each bringing five volunteers, to reach a 100-person team. Thanks to two earlier sessions, much of the work is already done, and what remains includes some photos from the early 1990s along with many from the late 1990s and early 2000s. This effort centers on preserving a shared visual record so the stories captured in these photographs are not lost.

A meet and greet with Damian Chapa, known for portraying Miklo in the film Blood In Blood Out, takes place at El Cerro Grande Mexican Restaurant. Admission is 30, and children under 11 are free, with a selfie included in the entry. Autographs on items brought from outside are 30, while merchandise purchased at the Vato Loco booth includes a complimentary autograph. LA Onda jackets are available for 150.

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

Marty Stuart takes the stage with The Fabulous Superlatives for a concert that honors a remarkable legacy while exploring fresh sonic territory. Across more than five decades, he has earned five Grammy Awards, founded the Congress of Country Music, joined the Country Music Hall of Fame, and received the AMA Lifetime Achievement Award. His journey spans early work with Lester Flatt and Johnny Cash to a solo career marked by the Gold-certified Hillbilly Rock, the Platinum-certified This One’s Gonna Hurt You, and Grammy-winning favorites The Whiskey Ain’t Workin’ and Same Old Train. This performance highlights Space Junk, his first full-length double album of original instrumentals, brought to life with longtime bandmates Kenny Vaughan, Harry Stinson, and Chris Scruggs. Their deep musical connection shapes a sound that blends surf-tinged guitar, easygoing California rhythms, expressive steel, and agile fretwork for a vivid live experience.

BAD Day Music and Arts Festival 2026 brings a standout lineup to the Brooklyn Arts District in Wilmington, North Carolina, featuring The Revivalists, Grace Potter, Greensky Bluegrass, Ripe, Futurebirds, and Lady Die, with additional artists to be announced. The event welcomes all ages, and children 12 and under are admitted free when accompanied by a ticketed adult.

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.

A rock performance by The Conspiracy takes the stage at Seven Mile Post in Wilmington.

Wilmington Symphony Orchestra takes the stage at the Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College in Wilmington with a program that travels across places and inner landscapes, moving from shadow toward brightness. Conductor Peter Askim leads Mozart’s Overture to The Magic Flute, Gabriela Lena Frank’s Escaramuza, Jeffrey Scott’s The Journey, and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 in C minor, Op. 67. This concert is suitable for all ages.

Presented by the Wilson Center, this event pairs a screening of Ridley Scott’s Blade Runner: The Final Cut with a live performance of Vangelis’s iconic, synth-driven score by The Avex Ensemble. The music is played in precise sync with the 1982 sci-fi classic, shown on a large high-definition screen. Produced by Avex Classics International through an arrangement with Warner Bros., the presentation heightens the noir atmosphere of the story following detective Rick Deckard, portrayed by Harrison Ford, on his mission as a replicant hunter. The film is rated R and is not recommended for young audiences. Subtitles will be displayed, and attendees younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

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.

World Ballet Company brings the beloved holiday classic to UNCW Kenan Auditorium with an enchanting staging of The Nutcracker. On Christmas Eve, Marie’s cherished Nutcracker comes to life and leads her through flurries of snow, a showdown with mice, and a visit to the Kingdom of Sweets. The production features a cast of 40 dancers, over 150 hand-sewn costumes, and handcrafted sets, creating a festive experience for all ages. The performance runs about 1 hour and 40 minutes, including a 20-minute intermission, and is recommended for ages 2 and up. Based in Los Angeles and led by Sasha Gorskaya and Gulya Hartwick, World Ballet Company tours iconic ballets to cities across the country, appealing to first-time attendees and longtime ballet lovers. The company includes artists from more than ten countries and has appeared in over 300 cities for audiences totaling more than 500,000. Special pricing is available for groups of 10 or more.

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.

Explore Wilmington’s Revolutionary-era past on a walking tour presented by the Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens. The route highlights places tied to the town’s earliest years, including the sites of the old jail, courthouse, and market, while sharing how the American Revolution reached Wilmington in the 1770s. The walk sets out from the Burgwin-Wright House and offers a look at what the town may have been like on the cusp of the Revolution, with context as the nation approaches the 250th anniversary of independence. Comfortable shoes and water are recommended. Tickets are $25 plus tax. To reserve, call 910-762-0570. All sales are final, and tickets may be transferred to another walking tour within the same calendar year.

The first annual Wilmington Christmas Extravaganza brings a festive, indoor holiday marketplace to the Wilmington Convention Center for two days of shopping and seasonal cheer. Browse 150 indoor vendors featuring gifts, boutique items, handmade creations, home decor, treats, accessories, and more. Families can enjoy photos with Santa, free face painting, a sparkling Christmas tree display, and merry photo backdrops. Specialty experiences include the Jewelari Charm Bar, Linked Ever After Permanent Jewelry, Sunkissed Charm Bar, a trucker hat bar by 596 Designs, hair tinsel from The Wandering Bloom, and offerings from Spunky Fantasy Services. The Bair Foundation and the Wilmington Railroad Museum will be on site, and live music is planned to set the mood. Holiday-themed adult beverages will be available. This event is presented with support from Leafguard, Patio Enclosures, The Pet's Table, and Renewal by Anderson.

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.

Krampus Christmas brings a mischievous twist to holiday shopping at the Krampus Christmas Market. Explore more than 60 vendors with unique gifts, handmade items, curious finds, and other out-of-the-ordinary treasures. Meet Santa and Krampus, sip mulled wine or hot cocoa while tackling your gift list, and grab a bite from the food truck. The market is held at Elks Lodge in Wilmington, North Carolina. Admission is $5, and children 12 and under are free.

Tony and Grammy winner Leslie Odom, Jr. brings his 2026 holiday tour back after a completely sold-out run last year. The evening blends cherished seasonal favorites with original songs from his celebrated Christmas releases, plus select numbers from Hamilton, the Broadway hit that earned him a Tony for portraying Aaron Burr. Expect silken vocals, easygoing charisma, and a throughline of peace and unity as the music moves from tender to soaring. It is a warm, spirited concert that captures the joy of the season.

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.

Every other Tuesday, Social Casa de Tequila hosts an evening of dancing. There is a beginner lesson, followed by open dancing featuring Salsa, Bachata, Merengue, Cha Cha, Kizomba, and more. The venue offers specialty cocktails and a full bar.