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Family-Friendly Summer Events in Wilmington, NC
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items These family-friendly summer events occur in Wilmington, NC, and the surrounding beaches. Many are low-cost or free.
Map
Pack a picnic, bring your chairs, and enjoy live music under the sprawling Airlie Oak. This beloved series features a variety of musical genres in a picturesque garden setting.
Summer Concert Series at Airlie Gardens
As one of the longest-running music festivals in the country, this event brings beach music enthusiasts together for a day of dancing and fun by the sea.
Carolina Beach Music Festival
Enjoy family-friendly movies under the stars. Bring blankets and chairs for a cozy evening by the lake watching popular films suitable for all ages.
Free Movies at the Lake - Carolina Beach
Celebrate America's birthday with live entertainment, food vendors, and a spectacular fireworks display over the Cape Fear River and Battleship North Carolina.
City of Wilmington's Fourth of July Celebration
Recognized as one of the state's oldest Independence Day celebrations, this festival features a parade, arts and crafts, live entertainment, and fireworks, offering a full day of patriotic festivities.
NC 4th of July Festival - Southport
Experience weekly fireworks displays accompanied by live music at the Boardwalk gazebo stage, creating a festive atmosphere for families. Neat tip: The boardwalk is also a filming site for The Summer I Turned Pretty.
Fireworks by the Sea & Boardwalk Blast - Carolina Beach
Introduce your family to the works of Shakespeare with free outdoor performances in a scenic lakeside setting. Bring a picnic and enjoy classic theater under the open sky.
Cape Fear Shakespeare, Ltd. -Wilmington NC
Explore local produce, handmade crafts, and delicious treats at this weekly market, offering a delightful morning outing for the whole family.
Wrightsville Beach Farmers' Market
Celebrate the history of "Old Baldy," North Carolina's oldest standing lighthouse, with a weekend of activities including tours, games, and educational programs suitable for all ages.
National Lighthouse Weekend
Engage your children in marine science and conservation through hands-on activities, animal encounters, and behind-the-scenes experiences at the aquarium's summer camps.
Summer Science Camps at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher
Enjoy complimentary screenings of family-friendly films in a comfortable indoor setting.
Free Movie Nights at the MLK Center!
Join guided bird-watching tours to discover and learn about the diverse avian species that inhabit the gardens. Morning and evening walks available.
Bird Walk at Airlie Gardens
This free program is held on Saturday mornings and offers engaging activities tailored for young children. It's an excellent opportunity for families to explore the museum together and participate in interactive learning experiences.
Small Wonders
Immerse yourself in the soulful melodies of bluegrass music at Poplar Grove's inaugural Bluegrass Festival. Featuring seven local artists, this event promises a day filled with toe-tapping rhythms and heartfelt performances. Attendees are encouraged ...
Bluegrass in the Grove
This free event invites families to delve into the wonders of the night sky. Attendees can participate in a range of astronomy-related activities, including telescope viewings, educational programs, and interactive exhibits. It's an excellent opportu...
Star Party at Carolina Beach State Park