Events in Wilmington, NC

Unwind with a gentle yoga session held amid rotating gallery displays, designed to encourage relaxation, rejuvenation, and self-reflection. The class welcomes all levels, including beginners, with poses that can be practiced on a mat or from a chair. A suggested donation of $8 is appreciated, and a portion of each contribution supports CAM’s Museum School Scholarship program for adults and youth.

At Cape Fear Games, Riftbound fans can take part in a constructed tournament run as a Swiss event capped at three rounds. Players bring a prepared deck and test their strategy across three pairings. Entry is $8, and that same amount from each participant is added to a prize pool paid to winning records. All participants receive a Nexus Night Pack. Any player who finishes X-0 also earns one pack from the most recent Standard set. Only sets that have had a prerelease are considered Standard. The format welcomes both newcomers and seasoned competitors.

A free, community drum and dance jam hosted by The Barzarre welcomes participants of all experience levels to make music, move, and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere. Informal seating is available, and everyone is invited to drum, play percussion, and dance. For a smooth circle, remove rings, watches, and bracelets when playing hand drums, ask before using someone else’s instrument, and balance playing with listening. Keep parts simple by locking into the pulse, beat, and rhythm. If you are unsure what fits, ask Ron, the creator of Drum and Dance Downtown, for guidance. Every gathering has its own vibe and etiquette, with a shared focus on positive rhythmic energy. Please be kind and respectful, have fun, and aim to create a little magic together.

This event centers on Magic: The Gathering drafting using packs from the latest Standard set, where players build decks at the table and then compete in three Swiss rounds. The format is listed as Constructed. Entry is $20 and can be purchased in store. Prize support awards payouts to final records of X-0 and X-1, with 1.5 Play Boosters added to the prize pool for each participant in a pod. Winners also receive pins that can be traded in for additional prizes.

Spend Tuesdays at The Kettle with Music Bingo, featuring drink specials, music, and prizes.

Visitors are welcome at UNCW CIE, where staff will be available throughout the day to offer tours of the facility, answer questions about CIE or UNCW, and connect you with programs and ecosystem partners. Entrepreneurs can take advantage of free coworking all day. This event is open to entrepreneurs, UNCW faculty, staff, and students, as well as anyone interested in learning more about CIE. Admission is free and registration is not required.

Take part in a guided museum tour that is free with museum admission. A museum guide leads visitors through several exhibits and shares insights to deepen understanding of the artworks on display. For questions about accessibility or to request accommodations, contact Georgia Mastroieni, Deputy Director of Operations, at (910) 726-9492 or georgia@cameronartmuseum.org.

Smart Start facilitates Circle of Parents programs in the Wilmington community for caregivers of children ages 0 to 8, and for caregivers of children with special needs ages 0 to 12. These gatherings are open to all parents and caregivers, and older siblings may attend. Families share a meal together, then children head to a kids group while adults take part in discussions. Participation is free.

Set in the Boatyard along the riverfront, this recurring trivia night features RJ at the helm, an outdoor bar, and a selection of food. Expect a lively quiz in an easygoing, open-air setting where teams test their knowledge between sips and bites.

A weekly tabletop roleplaying night invites adventurers to dive into guided stories and memorable quests led by dedicated Game Masters. It is a good fit whether you are searching for a new group or eager to try a different game. Advance online sign-up is required because table space is limited. A $10 entry fee supports the Game Master who prepares and runs the session. Game tools and a library are provided, while players bring the imagination and energy that drive the adventure.

At Pour Fella’s Pub, Stu Cru Jamaru brings musicians together for a wide-ranging open jam guided by hosts Stuart Currin and Jason Miller. The format is looser than a typical open mic, with spontaneous shifts in style that might jump from a rock groove to a blend of horns, keys, and violins in the span of a song. Experienced players and newcomers alike can connect, collaborate, and explore new sounds in real time. A professional setup is ready on stage, including a full drum kit, a bass rig, microphones, and pro sound gear. Musicians simply bring their instruments and check in with Jason or Stu to be worked into the mix. Listeners can settle in for a night of live improvisation and creative energy, with drinks available from the bar at Pour Fella’s. This gathering takes place every other Wednesday.

This bimonthly, locally produced stand-up showcase at Waterline Brewing Company spotlights both local talent and visiting comedians. Admission is free for a fun night of comedy.

A Stroller Strides session comes first, then time at the Long Leaf Park Splash Pad.

Smart Start facilitates Circle of Parents gatherings in the Wilmington area for families with young children. All parents and caregivers are welcome, and older siblings can attend too. It begins with a shared family meal, then children head to a dedicated kids group while adults take part in conversations. There is no cost to participate.

Clay Street Unit delivers a distinct take on American roots music, blending the acoustic drive of bluegrass and folk with the punch of Americana and country. From Denver, the band ties Rocky Mountain spirit to Appalachian tradition, shaping a sound that crosses genres and regions. Anchored by drums, sharp songwriting, and the easy chemistry of longtime friends, they transform their influences into something vibrant and current. With a debut album on the way, this appearance highlights a group forging music that feels both timeless and new.

Camp Riverwalk brings a camp-inspired vibe to the Hotel Ballast Wilmington patio with live music, yard games, and a lineup of food and drink specials. Expect sing-along energy, friendly cornhole matchups, and playful beverages like Capri Sun-style cocktails alongside coolers filled with seltzers or beer. The experience welcomes the public as well as registered hotel guests, and no tickets or reservations are required. For more information, call 910.763.5900.

Friday Night Magic arrives with a Standard Showdown at Cape Fear Games. Play Standard in Swiss rounds for store credit prizes awarded per match win. Entry is $8 and can be purchased in store. Prize structure varies by round count. If there are three rounds, each win is worth $5 in store credit. If there are four rounds, each win is worth $4 in store credit. First place receives a Standard Showdown promo card. Any undefeated player (X-0) also earns one pack from the most recent Standard set, and only sets that have had a prerelease are considered Standard. A Wizards Eventlink account is needed to participate. The store also offers regular events in Modern, Standard, Commander, and Draft.

Heart Brigade, a tribute band from Raleigh, brings Heart’s catalog to life with palpable passion and a faithful approach. The performance also tips its hat to artists who influenced Heart, weaving in classics by Led Zeppelin and The Who for a high-energy set. It all adds up to a lively celebration of Heart’s music.

Enjoy the music of Fleetwood Mac by candlelight in Wilmington as the Listeso String Quartet performs at The Elia. The program includes favorites such as Everywhere, Gypsy, You Make Loving Fun, Never Going Back Again, Don't Stop, Gold Dust Woman, Go Your Own Way, Landslide, Songbird, Rhiannon, and The Chain. The concert lasts 60 minutes, with doors opening 45 minutes before the performance and no late entry once it begins. Guests ages 8 and older are welcome, and anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. This event is ADA compliant. Seating within each zone is assigned on a first come, first served basis.

This candlelit guided tour at the Burgwin-Wright House explores colonial nightlife. Interpreters share the customs and superstitions of the past, highlighting what daily life was like before electricity and modern conveniences. Registration is $25 plus tax. Space is limited, so advance registration is required. To reserve a spot, call (910) 762-0570. Please do not email.

A Wilmington tradition for 23 years, this Saturday market brings together local farms, food makers, and artisans. Browse stands filled with locally grown produce, pasture-to-plate meats, farm-fresh eggs, local honey, freshly roasted coffee, chocolates, fresh bread, muffins, cakes, jams, and salsa. Discover handcrafted goods from talented makers, so each trip offers something new. Admission is free, leashed pets are welcome, and the atmosphere is kid friendly. Supported by Cumulus Media and Excite Credit Union.

Cars & Coffee Wilmington hosts an open, family-friendly car meet at The Pointe at Barclay. Admission is free for everyone. Each edition features a new theme that highlights different parts of the automotive community. While there, enjoy the breakfast, brunch, and shopping options available throughout Barclay.

This monthly circle welcomes people who are pregnant, considering pregnancy, or in the postpartum period. It provides a comfortable space to talk about pregnancy and birth, get questions answered, and connect with others. Attendance is free. Sharing a personal birth story is entirely optional. Infants who can be held may come with their parent, and older children should be cared for elsewhere, as childcare is not available.

Enjoy art, live music, and brunch at CAM Café inside Cameron Art Museum. This recurring gathering features a full brunch menu alongside signature mimosas offered in a variety of flavors, with live acoustic performers creating a relaxed atmosphere. The café welcomes everyone without museum membership or paid admission. A café purchase includes complimentary access to the museum galleries when proof of purchase is presented at Visitor Services, making it easy to explore the exhibitions after your meal.

Take part in a casual One Piece Card Game tournament featuring Standard format with Swiss rounds. The entry fee is $8, payable in store. All participants receive one OP Tournament Pack. Prizes are awarded as store credit per match win, with $5 per win when there are three rounds and $4 per win when there are four rounds. Any player who finishes undefeated earns one pack from the most recent Standard set. Only sets that have had a prerelease qualify as Standard. First place also receives one OP Winner pack. A Bandai account is required to participate.

Energy and sound healing practitioner Sandrine D’Andrea leads an immersive, hands-on workshop that explores how sound and vibration can encourage relaxation, balance, and healing. Participants learn through direct experience how sound influences the body, mind, and energetic system, drawing from practices that have supported well-being across cultures. You will have the chance to play all of the instruments provided, take part in guided exercises and partner work, and leave with practical techniques to use in everyday life. No musical experience is required. For comfort and full participation, bring a yoga mat, an eye mask, a pillow, a notebook and pencil, and a water bottle. Cost is $55.

Before the Veil brings together brides-to-be and their favorite people for a curated kickstart to bachelorette weekend planning at Wild Ones Fitness Studio in Wilmington. Discover what the area offers through local vendors who specialize in bachelorette parties and unique group experiences. Enjoy champagne and light bites while exploring ideas, entering raffles, and collecting fresh inspiration for an unforgettable celebration with your crew. Whether newly engaged, mapping out the weekend, or helping a best friend plan, this event sets the stage for a memorable itinerary. Vendor spotlights, giveaways, and ticket details will be announced soon. For ticket information, send a message.

Delve into Wilmington’s darker chapters on a true crime tour that uncovers notorious cases, unusual incidents, and startling accounts of murder and real-life crime. The stories span decades, from spying in the 1940s to killings reaching back to the city’s turbulent 1840s, with more to discover along the way.

Set along the Cape Fear River, this open-air performance takes place at Marina Grill. Enjoy the riverside atmosphere as the show unfolds in a relaxed outdoor setting.

Enjoy a Magic: The Gathering Commander event where you can choose between relaxed social play or high‑stakes, winner‑take‑all tables. Games run in 4‑player single‑elimination pods, and the entry fee is $7. In casual pods, participants receive a $5 store credit coin, and the last player standing earns two pulls from the promo card library. Registration is handled in store, and a Wizards Eventlink account is required.

The Conspiracy delivers a rock show in Wilmington at Seven Mile Post.

Cracker resists easy labels, weaving alt rock, Americana, punk, and classic rock into a unified sound. Co-founders David Lowery and Johnny Hickman have guided the band for more than 25 years, releasing ten studio albums, earning multiple gold records, and playing thousands of shows. Radio stations around the world still feature favorites such as "Low," "Teen Angst (What The World Needs Now)," "Euro-Trash Girl," and "Get Off This," and the band’s global fan base continues to grow.

Fins Up Festival takes place at Wrightsville Beach Brewery as a fundraiser for Friends of Wrightsville Beach and its community initiatives, including the Beach-Walker Project. Expect booths from local vendors and nonprofits beneath the oak tree canopy, live music from the Moto’s and Captain Mike & the Shipwrecked, and complimentary skin cancer screenings provided by Dermatology Associates. A silent auction and raffles offer additional ways to support the cause.

This Pokémon League event invites players to compete within their age groups and put their decks to the test in a Standard format that uses Swiss rounds with best of one matches. The entry fee is $8, and entry is available for purchase in store. All participants receive one POP pack. Store credit is awarded for each match win, with $5 per win when the event has three rounds and $4 per win when it has four rounds. Any player who finishes undefeated earns one pack from the most recent Standard set. A set is considered Standard only if it has had a prerelease event.

An open mic night with David Ament welcomes musicians of all kinds. All musical acts are welcome. The event takes place at Yacht Club.

Stu Cru Two brings a wide ranging set to Ogden Tap Room, covering artists from Bob Marley to Brittney Spears. Stuart Currin reads the crowd and chooses songs on the spot to match the moment, while Jason supports with bass lines that get the room dancing.

Backspin Social in Wilmington, NC hosts World Tavern Poker, the nation’s largest bar poker league, featuring free to play no limit Texas Hold’em tournaments in a welcoming setting for both newcomers and seasoned players. There is no entry fee and no gambling. Participants collect league points that contribute to local, regional, and national standings, creating a path to championship events and prizes. The environment is social and friendly, with opportunities to sharpen your skills and connect with other players while competing for points.

Reggae takes over Wilmington as The Movement, Pepper, and Kash'd Out unite for a big summer concert at The Pier in downtown. Presale registration is available and offers first access to the lowest ticket price. Every ticket contributes to Live Fearlessly Foundation 501(c)3, founded by the late local legend Jacob Venditti to help people living with cystic fibrosis pursue their passions, and includes a $5 surcharge that goes directly to the foundation.

Steep Canyon Rangers bring their celebrated blend of tradition-grounded bluegrass and contemporary songwriting to an outdoor stage, highlighting the acoustic clarity, ensemble interplay, and lived-in stories that shaped the band. In step with their 15th studio album, Next Act, they refocus on the musical foundations that first united them while performing with the confidence earned through years of evolution. Formed in North Carolina and influenced by both the Appalachian Mountains and the Piedmont, the group has earned recognition across American roots music, including a GRAMMY for Best Bluegrass Album for Nobody Knows You, additional nominations for Rare Bird Alert and North Carolina Songbook, and induction into the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame. The band features Graham Sharp on banjo and vocals, Mike Guggino on mandolin and mandola with vocals, Aaron Burdett on guitar and vocals, Nicky Sanders on fiddle and vocals, Mike Ashworth on drums, dobro, percussion, and vocals, and Barrett Smith on bass, guitar, and vocals.

An evening of music and social dance welcomes participants of all levels. A beginner lesson is included, and a caller will lead and teach the moves before the music begins. No partner or prior experience is required, and ample parking is available. Admission is $10, with a $1 rate for students. Comfortable shoes and clothing that let you spin are recommended, and the friendly setting offers plenty of chances to meet new people and enjoy a fun night on the dance floor.

Kick off the season with the second practice swim of the year as waters warm and spirits rise. This open-water session welcomes experienced Loop swimmers and those trying it for the first time. Participants can choose to cover a portion of the course or go the full distance, selecting what feels right for their goals. The emphasis is on building confidence, settling into a steady rhythm, and sharing the experience with a community that loves the water. The practice is self-supported, so bring personal gear, know your limits, and keep safety front and center. Pair up with a buddy, stay visible, and enjoy the swim.

Set in a cozy beach house one block away from the ocean, this laid back retreat offers room to gather, play, and fully slow down with a mix of mahjong, gentle movement, and margaritas that fosters easy connection. Picture tiles clacking on the deck at sunset, a sea breeze drifting through open doors, and a welcoming table where women come together to share the experience. Curated and hosted by Donna Dowson.

This training focuses on adapting yoga for bodies that are aging or working with injuries, offering practical ways to keep the practice accessible and supportive. Participants learn modifications for common issues, along with clear guidance on using props such as chairs and the wall to add stability and comfort. It is designed for practitioners and teachers who want a stronger toolkit for themselves and their students, whether to deepen understanding of modifications or to earn CEUs. The workshop is led by Jamie Annette, an experienced instructor with 200-hour and 500-hour certifications who has taught Vinyasa Flow, Hot Slow Flow, Core Power, Gentle with Meditation, and Restorative classes. She offers options suitable for all levels and also leads teacher trainings, workshops, and retreats. Early bird pricing is $325, and standard pricing is $375.

The restaurant will feature live music.

An outdoor regional art market and sale brings more than 120 artists to Front Street from Orange to Walnut and to Princess Street from Front to Second. The gathering highlights local creators and community spirit, offering a welcoming setting to explore unique handmade artwork. Attendees can discover original pieces for themselves or choose special handcrafted gifts for loved ones.

An annual outdoor art showcase and sale features more than 120 artists. They line Front Street from Orange to Walnut and Princess Street from Front to Second, creating a walkable corridor of creativity. It spotlights local artisans and encourages community connection, with distinctive handmade pieces available to purchase, ideal to keep or to give.

Greenfield Lake Amphitheater hosts the 8th annual Port City Jerry Day, presented by the City of Wilmington and caring community members in support of United Way of the Cape Fear. Expect a celebration of Grateful Dead music and community spirit, with opportunities to browse offerings from local vendors in a family friendly setting that highlights local artists and activities. The artist lineup and official 2026 artwork will be shared at a later time. Tickets are $10 and tax deductible, and 100% of ticket sales and donations collected benefit local charity to uplift the Wilmington region.

Audiomelt returns to Jimmy’s with a live performance from a Wilmington, North Carolina rock group featuring Landon Clark, Owen Wasterval, Josh Cook, and Nico Holt. The band blends the raw edge of grunge with the technical drive of modern metal, presenting a mix of original songs and covers. Listeners who enjoy Alice in Chains, Soundgarden, Metallica, Foo Fighters, Nirvana, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and Iron Maiden will find plenty to connect with in their set.

Presented at the Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College, this concert features Mike Campbell and The Dirty Knobs. Campbell, the founding and lead guitarist of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, co-wrote and co-produced many of the band's albums and has written songs for artists such as Don Henley and Bob Dylan, with additional credits contributing to releases by Aretha Franklin, Roy Orbison, and Johnny Cash. Following his years with the Heartbreakers, he assembled The Dirty Knobs, a tight group of longtime collaborators. The lineup includes fellow Heartbreaker Steve Ferrone on drums, Chris Holt on guitar with credits including Don Henley and The Eagles, and Lance Morrison on bass with Don Henley.

Originating in Boston in 1986, Pixies helped shape alternative rock with a combustible blend of sharp guitars, offbeat lyrics, and sudden shifts in rhythm and melody. Their catalog spans favorites like Where Is My Mind, Here Comes Your Man, Hey, and Debaser, along with the platinum album Doolittle, and their influence reaches artists including Nirvana, Radiohead, Smashing Pumpkins, and Weezer. Marking four decades, founding members Black Francis, Joey Santiago, and David Lovering are joined by current bassist Emma Richardson on the Pixies 40 anniversary tour. The performance mixes well known hits with new material from the latest album, The Night the Zombies Came.

Honoring the memory of Ryan Young, the YMCA’s Pier-2-Pier Swim Race is an annual open-water ocean challenge at Wrightsville Beach, NC. Swimmers cover roughly two miles with the prevailing current, traveling point to point between Johnny Mercer Pier and Crystal Pier. Proceeds from the race support the YMCA’s Safety Around Water program, which provides free water safety instruction and swim lessons for the community.

A pre-show gathering at The Rusty Nail in Wilmington brings music lovers together during Panic Weekend. Hosted by Tim Holbrook, the event features performances from a lineup of musicians and has no cover charge. Jamaican dishes will be available for purchase from the Jamrock Food Truck. The Rusty Nail, a music venue with a notable history that has also served as a filming location for movie and television productions, is opening its doors for the occasion with support from owner Sandy Williams.

Charley Crockett brings the Age of the Ram Tour to Live Oak Bank Pavilion for an outdoor concert. The pavilion is open air with no covered seating, and the performance will proceed in any weather. Lineups, schedules, and prices can change without notice, and service fees apply to tickets regardless of the point of purchase. Through a partnership with PLUS1, one dollar from every ticket will support the Last Prisoner Project, a 501(c)(3) that works across the United States to help free people incarcerated for cannabis offenses and to advance policies that address the impacts of past cannabis laws. Ticket purchases are not tax deductible. Ticket access includes a public onsale along with presales such as artist, Citi cardmember, Live Nation, Spotify, Live Oak Bank local sponsor, aisle seating, and T-Mobile Concert Perks, with preferred options for Citi cardmembers also noted.

Drivin N Cryin brings the Crushing Flowers Tour to the stage with the fire and rootsy spirit that has carried the Atlanta-formed trio since 1985. Fronted by singer and songwriter Kevn Kinney with Tim Nielsen on bass and Dave Johnson on drums, the band mixes Southern rock bite, folk-leaning storytelling, and revved-up rock and roll. Their rise in the late 80s and early 90s produced radio staples such as Fly Me Courageous, Honeysuckle Blue, Straight to Hell, Build a Fire, and Scarred But Smarter, with Fly Me Courageous achieving Gold status. They have never slowed down, continually touring and releasing new material, building a multigenerational community of listeners, and seeing Straight to Hell introduced to fresh audiences through collaborations and covers. Honors include enshrinement in the Georgia Music Hall of Fame and Kinney’s induction into the Milwaukee Music Hall of Fame, alongside years of shared stages with The Who, Hootie & The Blowfish, The Black Crowes, ZZ Top, Soul Asylum, Blackberry Smoke, The Marshall Tucker Band, and Jason Isbell, plus slots on destination gatherings like Rock Boat, Outlaw Country Cruise, and Moon Crush. The new album, Crushing Flowers, returns to first principles by centering the original three-piece, prioritizing feel and chemistry over excess. It underscores what continues to define Drivin N Cryin after nearly four decades... direct, heartfelt songs and the unmistakable sound of a vital American rock band still writing its story.

A fall and winter kids consignment sale brings thousands of items together in one place for families, educators, and bargain seekers. Shop for every stage from maternity through the teen years, including clothing for girls and boys from newborn through 16 plus, shoes up to size 10 in both men and women, maternity wear and accessories, baby gear, toys, puzzles, games, electronic toys, home decor, holiday items, costumes, books, feeding supplies, bath and potty essentials, beach and pool gear, arts and crafts, DVDs, bags and purses, backpacks, lunch bags, and sporting goods. Teachers and daycare staff can find manipulatives, toys, and books, and grandparents can browse for their grandkids. Those with outgrown or unused kid items can consign across all brands and earn 70 percent, with options to boost the percentage by volunteering for one or two shifts. A step by step consigning guide is available. The sale takes place at Winter Park Baptist Church Gym in Wilmington.

At Ogden Park, the fifth annual New Hanover County first responders kickball tournament unites teams from law enforcement, fire, EMS, 911, and EM for a day of camaraderie and friendly competition. The beneficiary is the Cape Fear EMS Foundation, a 501c3 that supports local first responders in New Hanover County.

Enjoy a day by the Cape Fear River at a waterfront market in Riverlights featuring 30 local makers. Browse goods, listen to live music, and explore a park filled with local vendors. Riverlights offers many established bars and restaurants, and coffee and food trucks will be on site. It is a welcoming outing for the whole family, including four legged friends.

A Night to Recover returns for its fourth year with an evening designed to support The Healing Place of New Hanover County. Expect live music, powerful recovery stories, a three-course gourmet dinner, engaging raffles, and meaningful opportunities to connect with the THP community. The celebration honors alumni and the supporters of The Healing Place and raises awareness and funds for programs that help people on their path to recovery.

Tucked beneath the trees in Wilmington’s Ogden area, The Bend serves as a community gathering place for entertainment. The Hatch Brothers will perform live with Spencer Carlson.

Lettuce brings the Cook Tour to Greenfield Lake Amphitheater, spotlighting a record that stirs together funk, soul, jazz, rock, and hip hop into a savory, unified groove. Longtime bandmates Adam Deitch on drums, Adam “Shmeeans” Smirnoff on guitar, Erick “Maverick” Coomes on bass, Ryan “Zoid” Zoidis on saxophones and synths, Eric “Benny” Bloom on trumpet, and Nigel Hall on vocals and keyboards share music from Cook, released on their own Lettuce Records. The album follows tours with GZA of Wu-Tang Clan and Ziggy Marley, as well as a live album and concert film created with the Colorado Symphony. Their trademark sound tips its hat to James Brown and the JB’s while honoring mentors like Tower of Power and Maceo Parker. Cook also debuts alongside Lettuce Red Crush and Orange Crush wines in collaboration with Aquila Cellars, plus a limited-edition recipe book that accompanies the vinyl and digital release. Public onsale, artist and Live Nation presales, and a T-Mobile Offer with Fastlane are part of the rollout.

Explore centuries of Cape Fear history on a guided walking tour hosted by the Burgwin-Wright House. Along the route, hear accounts of secret tunnels beneath Wilmington, Lord Cornwallis’ visit during the Revolutionary War, the Yellow Fever outbreak that left the city nearly deserted, and the tumultuous era of Prohibition. The tour sets out from the Burgwin-Wright House and lasts about 90 minutes. Comfortable shoes and water are recommended. Tickets are $25 plus tax. To reserve by phone, call 910-762-0570. All sales are final, and tickets may be transferred to another walking tour within the same calendar year.

Waterline Brewing hosts a celebration of classic automobiles and local flavor, bringing together a vintage car show, a vintage clothing market by Vintage Flea ILM, craft beer, food trucks, car-focused vendors, and live music from Mark Sinnis. Attendees can display cherished classic, muscle, hot rod, and other unique vintage vehicles, browse a variety of automotive and lifestyle vendors, and enjoy the atmosphere among standout rides. Organizers are accepting entries for the car show, and space is limited, so early registration is encouraged. Vendor opportunities are available for automotive businesses such as pinstriping, detailing, window tinting, car washes, repair, performance and restoration, accessories, and car clubs.

Experience a night market where mystical wares and handmade artistry come together in a festive Halloween atmosphere at Elk’s Lodge. Costumes are encouraged to add to the spooky fun. Browse crystals, altar tools, specialty teas, and tarot readings alongside crochet pieces, candles, jewelry, original art, and curious home decor and oddities. Come hungry, because local favorites will be on site, including Glizzie’s on the Go with beef hot dogs and fried favorites, with vegan and turkey options available upon request, plus The Daily Scoop on Main serving ice cream, funnel cakes, and classic fair treats. Admission is $5, and kids 12 and under enter free. Cash and card are accepted at the door. Families can enjoy trick or treat activities while getting a head start on spooky season shopping.

Audiomelt returns to Jimmy's with a set of rock and metal originals plus covers. The Wilmington, North Carolina quartet features Landon Clark, Owen Wasterval, Josh Cook, and Nico Holt. Their sound blends the raw edge of early grunge with the technical drive of modern metal. Touchpoints include Alice In Chains, Soundgarden, Metallica, Foo Fighters, Nirvana, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and Iron Maiden.

Wilson Center presents Indigo Girls at the Wilson Center - Cape Fear Community College. Emily Saliers and Amy Ray bring a celebrated partnership that spans more than four decades, sixteen studio albums, and over fifteen million records sold. They emerged from Atlanta’s alternative scene, signed with Epic Records in 1988, and broke through with a self-titled release driven by the singles Closer to Fine and Kid Fears, launching a streak of Gold and Platinum records. Their recent album, Look Long, finds them back in the studio with a powerful band, blending heartfelt writing with an eclectic sound. On stage, their concerts often turn into communal singalongs, with harmonies that invite the entire room to lift its voice. Their impact reaches beyond music, with long-standing advocacy for racial justice, reproductive rights, immigration reform, LGBTQ equality, education, death penalty reform, and Native American rights in collaboration with groups such as Project Say Something, El Refugio, Imagination Library, and First Peoples Fund. A new generation discovered their work when Closer to Fine was featured in Greta Gerwig’s Barbie. Their journey is chronicled in the 2024 documentary Indigo Girls: It’s Only Life After All, directed by Alexandria Bombach, which premiered at Sundance, earned recognition as a New York Times Critic’s Pick, screened at SXSW, Tribeca, and Hot Docs, and later arrived on Netflix. Their catalog also inspired the 2023 jukebox musical film Glitter & Doom, featuring a celebrated queer ensemble and a cameo from the duo. Praised by Rolling Stone for their seamless chemistry, Indigo Girls continue to foster a powerful connection with audiences in concert.

Celebrate love and local history on a downtown walking experience inspired by Outlander. Participants explore the world of Claire and Jamie Fraser from the Outlander book and Starz TV series while connecting those stories to real North Carolina history. Along the route, the tour highlights Colonial Wilmington and the experiences of Scottish Highlanders who arrived in the 1770s. The outing begins at the Burgwin-Wright House and features around a dozen stops downtown. Comfortable shoes and water are recommended. Tickets are $25 plus tax and can be reserved by calling 910-762-0570. All sales are final, but tickets may be transferred to another walking tour within the same calendar year.

Round Room Presents a new Sesame Street Live show where Elmo and friends take the stage with singing and dancing. Families can move along to favorites like "Sunny Days", "Elmo’s Got the Moves", and "Letter of the Day" while enjoying a warm celebration of music and learning. This event welcomes all ages. After the show, an optional Photo Experience lets guests take a picture with characters from the production. Photo Experience ticket holders should visit the Will Call window at the Box Office on show day to collect passes and after-show instructions. Each adult and child must have a Photo Experience ticket to attend. The Photo Experience begins shortly after the performance ends, and bringing a camera is recommended to capture the moment.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Wilson Center presents Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives in a showcase of masterful country musicianship. Across more than five decades, the five-time Grammy winner, Country Music Hall of Famer, AMA Lifetime Achievement honoree, and founder of the Congress of Country Music has helped shape the sound and story of the genre, moving from early stints with Lester Flatt and Johnny Cash to a landmark solo career that delivered the Gold-certified Hillbilly Rock, the Platinum-certified This One’s Gonna Hurt You, and Grammy-winning tracks like The Whiskey Ain’t Workin’ and Same Old Train. Sharing the stage with longtime bandmates Kenny Vaughan, Harry Stinson, and Chris Scruggs, Stuart brings Space Junk, his first full-length double album of original instrumentals, to life. Their easy chemistry powers a set steeped in surf-tinged twang, laid-back West Coast grooves, soulful steel guitar, and agile picking, blending tradition with fresh horizons at Wilson Center - Cape Fear Community College.

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.

Audiomelt returns to Jimmy’s with a Wilmington, North Carolina rock sound that blends grunge roots with the technical side of modern metal. The band features Landon Clark, Owen Wasterval, Josh Cook, and Nico Holt, and will perform rock and metal originals along with covers. Listeners who enjoy Alice In Chains, Soundgarden, Metallica, Foo Fighters, Nirvana, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Iron Maiden, and related artists will recognize the influences. The performance is built around a live show designed to bring that mix to the stage.

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.

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.