Free events in Wilmington, NC

The Wrightsville Beach Farmers Market highlights 100% Wagyu beef and Berkshire pork raised in North Carolina. Whether you are a local or just passing through, find these locally raised meats and add regional flavor to your meals.

Smart Start offers free Kaleidoscope Play & Learn groups for families with children ages 0 to 5 at New Hanover County Public Library. These weekly gatherings welcome all families and do not require pre-registration.

Barzarre hosts a weekly open mic that welcomes a broad mix of performers. Musicians, comedians, poets, hip hop artists, improvisers and unconventional talents share the same stage, whether the material is finely honed or brand new. Signups are available and admission is free. Touring musical acts are known to stop in for featured sets. A projector with HDMI connections is on hand for multimedia, so audiovisual pieces can be included. Inexpensive beer is offered, and the focus stays on variety across every genre.

Hosted by The Barzarre, this weekly community drum and dance jam welcomes everyone. The setting is casual, with seating available, and the focus is on shared rhythm and movement. It is free to attend and open to all experience levels. New drummers and dancers are encouraged to remove rings, watches, and bracelets when playing hand drums, to ask permission before using someone else’s drum, to listen as much as they play, and to keep things simple by following the pulse, beat, and rhythm. If you are unsure about what is appropriate, ask RON, the creator of Drum and Dance Downtown. Every gathering is a little different, but the spirit stays the same... bring positive energy, be kind, be respectful, have fun, and create a little magic together.

Connect with other caregivers at a Circle of Parents gathering facilitated by Smart Start in the Wilmington community. It welcomes parents of children ages 0 to 8, as well as parents of children with special needs ages 0 to 12. The whole family shares a meal together, then children head to their group while parents take part in guided conversations. All parents and caregivers are welcome, and older siblings are welcome too. There is no cost to participate.

A watch party at The Eagle’s Dare features the much-anticipated movie adaptation of The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood. Admission is free with RSVP. Drinks are available for purchase at the bar, and attendees may bring their own movie snacks. Guests are asked to clean up after themselves to help keep the venue welcoming for future gatherings.

Smart Start facilitates Circle of Parents programs in the Wilmington community. This gathering at First Christian Church of Wilmington NC is for parents and caregivers of children with special needs ages 0 to 12. Older siblings are welcome. Families share a meal together, then children join the children’s group while parents take part in discussions. Participation is free.

Spend a focused day in a shared workspace at this free coworking event. Settle in, make progress on your to-do list, and enjoy complimentary coffee and snacks throughout the day.

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 free Kaleidoscope Play & Learn groups for families with children ages 0 to 5. All families are welcome to participate. The gatherings meet weekly and no advance registration is needed. This session takes place at the New Hanover County Northeast Branch Library.

Celebrate a beloved Wilmington tradition that has been thriving for 23 years. This riverfront farmers market features locally grown produce, pasture-raised meats, eggs, local honey, roasted coffee, chocolates, fresh bread, muffins, cakes, jams, salsa and more. Explore one-of-a-kind, handcrafted creations from local artisans, so each visit offers something new to discover. Admission is free, and leashed pets are welcome. Thanks to Cumulus Media and Excite Credit Union for their support.

Backspin Social hosts free World Tavern Poker No-Limit Texas Hold'em tournaments. Players of any experience level can expect a friendly setting to hone their skills, meet fellow players, and compete for points and prizes. No buy-in is required and play does not involve gambling. Points earned count toward World Tavern Poker standings at the local, regional, and national levels, with chances to qualify for championship events and win major prizes.