Your Christmas in Wilmington North Carolina: Events and Activities
Imagine strolling through historic homes and gardens adorned with festive lights, watching a lighted boat parade, and enjoying classic holiday entertainment in a charming coastal setting. Wilmington, North Carolina, and its island beaches transform into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, offering a unique blend of coastal charm and festive cheer. This guide will help you navigate the numerous holiday events and activities in the area, ensuring you make the most of your visit. This is the best guide for Christmas in Wilmington North Carolina.
From one-time annual events to ongoing seasonal activities, there’s something for everyone in this holiday area. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, you’ll find that Wilmington’s Christmas celebrations are a special treat.
The Magic of a Coastal Christmas in Wilmington North Carolina
Experience the enchanting blend of coastal charm and Christmas magic in Wilmington, North Carolina. The city’s Historic Downtown area is transformed into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, offering a unique blend of traditional Christmas elements and coastal flair.
What Makes Wilmington Special During the Holidays
Wilmington’s mild coastal climate provides a distinct contrast to traditional Christmas activities, making it an attractive destination for those seeking a different kind of holiday experience. The city’s festive decorations, lights along the Riverwalk, and special events create a special holiday atmosphere that visitors won’t find elsewhere.
Best Time to Experience Christmas in Wilmington North Carolina
The best time to visit Wilmington during the holiday season depends on your preferences. December weekends are packed with events, with the most concentrated activities typically happening around Christmas week. Visitors should consider the weather and plan accordingly, as Wilmington’s coastal climate can be mild but still cool during the winter months.
Enchanted Airlie: Wilmington’s Premier Holiday Light Display
Wilmington’s premier holiday light display, Enchanted Airlie, transforms the historic Airlie Gardens into a winter wonderland. This annual event features over one million twinkling lights arranged in creative displays along a walking path through the gardens.
What to Expect at Enchanted Airlie
The event includes various themed areas, such as the famous Live Oak, singing trees, and a butterfly garden, all set amidst a festive atmosphere created by holiday music, snow machines, and seasonal decorations.
Ticket Information and Planning Tips
Admission to Enchanted Airlie is $35 per carload, and tickets must be reserved in advance. It’s advisable to purchase tickets early, as they sell out quickly – in 2023, tickets sold out in just 15 minutes. Consider joining as garden members for early access to tickets.
For a comfortable visit, plan to arrive at a reasonable hour, dress warmly, and enjoy the available amenities like hot chocolate and treats. You can also enhance your evening by dining at nearby restaurants before or after your visit.
Historic Home Holiday Tours in Downtown Wilmington
Wilmington’s historic homes are a major draw during the holiday season, offering a glimpse into the past with their period-accurate decorations and special tours. You can experience the city’s rich history and festive atmosphere by visiting these homes, which are transformed into winter wonderlands during Christmas.
Nights of Lights at the Bellamy Mansion Museum
The Bellamy Mansion Museum hosts an annual event called Nights of Lights, where you can tour the historic home while it’s decorated in traditional Christmas décor. This year’s event takes place from December 19 to 21, from 5 pm to 8 pm. Although advanced tickets are not required, it’s a first-come, first-served event, and it tends to get crowded. If you can’t make it during the free nights, you can see the decorations during the museum’s regular tour hours: Monday through Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm.
Burgwin-Wright House Holiday Open House
The Burgwin-Wright House‘s Holiday Open House takes place on the second Saturday of December each year. The 1770 house-turned-museum opens its doors for a Holiday Craft Market in the garden from 9 am to 3 pm. You can also enjoy crafts for kids, live music, and more while touring the home and seeing its decorations. Both the Bellamy Mansion Museum and the Burgwin-Wright House accept donations to support the preservation of these historic properties.
Christmas Shows and Performances at Thalian Hall
Wilmington’s Thalian Hall is a must-visit destination during Christmas, offering a variety of festive shows and performances. This historic venue becomes the centerpiece of Wilmington’s Christmas entertainment scene, hosting numerous theatrical productions and movies throughout December.
Holiday Theater Productions
Thalian Hall’s Christmas schedule is packed with exciting holiday theater productions. You can enjoy shows like “Who Brought the Humbug?” on December 3, “Celtic Angels Christmas” on December 5, and “Ballet for Young Audiences: The Nutcracker” on December 6 and 7. These productions cater to diverse tastes and age groups, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.
Annual Film Screenings
In addition to theatrical productions, Thalian Hall also hosts annual film screenings during the Christmas season. Catch “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” from December 12 to 22, and Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas” from December 13 to 22. The annual film screening of “It’s a Wonderful Life” on December 23 is a cherished Wilmington Christmas tradition. Be sure to purchase tickets in advance, as these shows are extremely popular.
The Nutcracker and Holiday Performances at Wilson Center
As the holiday season approaches, the Wilson Center in Wilmington becomes a hub for festive performances, including The Nutcracker.
You have two exciting options to experience The Nutcracker at the Wilson Center this year. City Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker is scheduled for December 7 and 8, offering a unique artistic approach to this beloved ballet. Alternatively, you can witness The Nutcracker featuring Dara Holmes of the prestigious Joffrey Ballet on December 14 and 15, a performance that promises to be exceptionally captivating.
Ballet Performances
The Wilson Center’s ballet performances, including The Nutcracker, are designed to enchant audiences of all ages. City Ballet’s production brings a fresh perspective to the classic tale, while the performance featuring Dara Holmes of the Joffrey Ballet adds a touch of prestige.
Holiday Concerts
In addition to The Nutcracker, the Wilson Center hosts a range of holiday concerts that are sure to get you into the festive spirit. These events are perfect for families and individuals looking to enjoy some holiday cheer.
Downtown Wilmington Christmas Celebrations
Downtown Wilmington transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season, offering a variety of festive activities and events. The area is adorned with decorations throughout the historic district, creating a magical atmosphere that attracts visitors from all over.
Downtown Tree Lighting Ceremony
The official kickoff to the holiday season is the Downtown Tree Lighting Ceremony, held on November 29 at 6:30 pm at the corner of Water and Market Streets. Pre-lighting festivities begin at 5 pm, featuring live entertainment, free hot cocoa, a visit from Santa, and local vendors. This event marks the beginning of the holiday season in downtown Wilmington.
Holidays on Water Drone Show
For three Saturdays in December (December 14, 21, and 28), a holiday drone show takes place at 7 pm on Water Street over Wilmington’s Riverfront. The “Holidays on Water” drone show creates spectacular holiday-themed light displays synchronized to music over the Cape Fear River. You can enjoy this display while having dinner at one of downtown Wilmington’s restaurants for a complete evening experience.
To make the most of your visit, plan ahead for parking and navigating downtown during these popular holiday events. Enjoy the festive atmosphere and activities that downtown Wilmington has to offer during the Christmas in Wilmington North Carolina season.
Island of Lights Festival at Carolina Beach
As the holiday season approaches, Carolina Beach transforms into a winter wonderland with the Island of Lights Festival. This month-long celebration is a beloved tradition that brings joy and festive cheer to the community.
Lighting at the Lake Ceremony
The festivities kick off on November 29 with the Lighting at the Lake ceremony, starting at 6:30 pm. This free event is a wonderful way to get into the holiday spirit, and it’s a great opportunity to enjoy the beautiful decorations around Carolina Beach Lake.
Christmas Parade and Flotilla
The Carolina Beach Christmas Parade takes place on December 6 at 7 pm, traveling along Lake Park Boulevard and ending at the Publix intersection. The following day, on December 7, the Island of Lights Christmas Flotilla features decorated boats sailing from Snows Cut to the Carolina Beach Boat Basin and back.
Tour of Homes
On December 14, from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm, the Tour of Homes event offers a unique opportunity to view beautifully decorated island homes. This ticketed event is a great way to experience the holiday spirit in Carolina Beach.
You can make a day trip or weekend stay at Carolina Beach to enjoy multiple Island Lights events. Be sure to explore the local dining options before or after attending the festivities, and enjoy the magical atmosphere of the Island Lights Festival.
Holiday Flotillas and Boat Parades
As you experience the holiday season in Wilmington, North Carolina, you’ll discover that the city’s coastal charm is perfectly captured in its festive flotillas and boat parades. These events represent a unique coastal Christmas tradition in the Wilmington area, bringing together locals and visitors alike to marvel at the beautifully decorated boats.
North Carolina Holiday Flotilla at Wrightsville Beach
The annual North Carolina Holiday Flotilla at Wrightsville Beach takes place on November 30. It begins with a “Day in the Park” at the Wrightsville Beach Town Complex from 10 am to 4 pm, featuring a car show and local arts and crafts vendors. At 6 pm, the boat parade commences, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display. The variety of boats decked out in lights sailing down the river is a sight to behold.
Carolina Beach Christmas Flotilla
Another delightful event is the Island of Lights Christmas flotilla at Carolina Beach on December 7. Boats sail from Snows Cut to the Carolina Beach Boat Basin and back, creating a magical atmosphere. For both flotillas, spectators can find excellent viewing spots along the waterways to enjoy the illuminated boats. Over the years, these flotillas have become beloved traditions, making them a must-see during your holiday visit to Wilmington, North Carolina.
Christmas in Wilmington North Carolina: Railroad Traditions
Wilmington’s railroad heritage is on full display during the holiday season, with the Wilmington Railroad Museum being a must-visit attraction. The museum transforms into a winter wonderland, celebrating the historical connection between railroads and holiday traditions.
Wilmington Railroad Museum Holiday Train and Light Spectacular
The Holiday Train and Light Spectacular is a dazzling display of over 25,000 lights, running on Fridays and Saturdays from November 29 to December 21, and December 22-23, from 6:30 pm to 8 pm. Tickets are $5 per person, and Santa and Mrs. Claus will be in attendance, available for photos with visitors.
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Polar Express Readings and Winter Wonderland Displays
The museum also hosts Polar Express Readings on select dates (November 30, December 1, 14, 15, 21, and 22) at 4:30 pm and 5:30 pm, with tickets priced at $5. While it’s not a train ride, Santa will be present, adding to the festive atmosphere. The museum’s exterior decorations are free to view, and the model train layouts inside are transformed into a winter wonderland.
Festive Holiday Markets for Unique Gifts
For those seeking one-of-a-kind Christmas gifts or simply wanting to enjoy the festive ambiance, Wilmington’s holiday markets are the perfect destination. You can find a variety of unique shopping experiences across the city, each offering a distinct holiday atmosphere.
Brooklyn Arts Center Holiday Market
The Brooklyn Arts Center hosts its annual Holiday Market from December 6 to 8. On Friday, admission is $20, which includes beverages, light bites, and early access to shopping. On Saturday and Sunday, admission is $5, valid for both days.
German Christmas Market at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church
Experience an authentic German Christmas at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church on November 23. Enjoy traditional German food, beverages, and music, along with family-friendly activities like crafts for children and a visit from Father Christmas.
Waterfront Holiday Markets
Wilmington’s waterfront areas host several holiday markets, including the Really Cool Stuff Holiday Market downtown on November 30 and the Carolina Beach Holiday Market on December 7. These markets offer a range of local crafts, food, and unique gifts.
Where to Meet Santa in Wilmington
Experience the joy of Christmas in Wilmington North Carolina, with its array of holiday events and activities. One of the highlights is meeting Santa Claus at various locations throughout the city.
Santa at Shopping Centers and Malls
Santa makes his presence known at several shopping centers and malls in Wilmington. At Mayfaire Town Center (865 Inspiration Dr), Santa is available from November 26 until December 24. Mondays are pet-friendly days, and there’s a pet setup available at all times. You can also visit Santa at Independence Mall (3500 Oleander Dr) daily until December 24, with pet photos available on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Special Santa Events and Photo Opportunities
The Cotton Exchange (321 N Front St) offers a unique experience with Santa or the Grinch. Santa visits on November 29-30 and every weekend in December, accompanied by the Grinch on Saturdays. The Grinch also makes a solo appearance on December 5. If you miss Santa, you can still drop off your child’s wish list at the Santa mailbox located within The Cotton Exchange.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides with Santa
Experience the magic of Christmas in Wilmington North Carolina, with a horse-drawn carriage ride featuring Santa. This enchanting experience allows you to enjoy the city’s festive atmosphere while exploring its historic streets.
Downtown Carriage Tour Experience
The carriage tours start at Market and Water Streets, near the downtown Christmas tree, and take you through the decorated historic district. You’ll be provided with blankets to keep warm while you enjoy the city’s Christmas lights and learn about Wilmington’s history. On some rides, you’ll even get to enjoy Christmas caroling, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Booking Information and Schedule
The Santa carriage rides are scheduled on December 16-17 and 23-24, from 6 pm to 10 pm. Tickets are priced at $14 for adults and $6 for children, with kids receiving free candy canes. It’s recommended to book your carriage rides in advance, especially for dates close to Christmas, to ensure availability.
These nighttime carriage tours offer a unique perspective on Wilmington’s holiday decorations, making for a memorable holiday experience.
Must-See Christmas Light Displays
Wilmington’s holiday spirit shines bright with its impressive collection of Christmas light displays. As you explore the city, you’ll discover a variety of magical holiday experiences that are sure to delight both locals and visitors.
Jeff Gordon Chevrolet’s Musical Light Show
Jeff Gordon Chevrolet is an unexpected but impressive destination for a Christmas light display, featuring approximately 450,000 lights synchronized to holiday music broadcast on 99.3 FM. You can drive through or walk around the dealership lot to experience this extraordinary musical light show.
Poplar Grove Plantation’s Merry & Bright Festival
Poplar Grove Plantation hosts the Merry & Bright Festival, where the manor house and grounds are beautifully decorated. Enjoy campfires for s’mores, adult drinks, and a visit from Santa. Tickets are $10 for ages 3+, with a family package available for $35.
USS North Carolina Battleship Illumination
The USS North Carolina Battleship is illuminated in green and red on select nights, adding to the city’s festive atmosphere. Check the schedule for specific dates, including the Downtown Holiday Tree Lighting and Christmas Eve and Day.
Holiday Brews and Seasonal Treats
Wilmington’s craft breweries and bakeries offer a delicious taste of the holiday season. As you visit during Christmas, you can enjoy special brews and sweet treats that embody the city’s festive spirit.
Front Street Brewery’s Christmas Ales
Front Street Brewery, Wilmington’s oldest brewery, releases its seasonal Christmas ale, Tiny Tim’s Christmas brew, every year on Black Friday. This year, they introduced Tiny Tim’s Vanilla Coffee Christmas porter in collaboration with Hidden Grounds Coffee Shop. Limited variants were available only on Black Friday, including vanilla & blueberry, straight porter, and chocolate & bourbon. You can enjoy these brews on draft or take some home in a growler.
Local Bakeries and Sweet Shops
Wilmington’s local bakeries and sweet shops offer unique holiday treats that pair perfectly with the seasonal brews. Over the years, these offerings have become traditions that locals and visitors look forward to each holiday season. As you savor these flavors, the city’s holiday atmosphere comes alive with music and cheer, making your visit a memorable one at this special time of the year.
Ways to Give Back During the Holidays in Wilmington
You can make a difference in Wilmington during the holidays by participating in various charitable activities. The city’s festive atmosphere is complemented by numerous opportunities to give back to the community.
Angel Trees and Toy Drives
Many organizations in Wilmington, such as the Basilica Shrine of St. Mary, have angel tree programs where you can sponsor gifts for families in need. Even if you’re not a parishioner, you can still participate by taking a leaf from the tree and purchasing the requested items. Similar giving trees are also available at local retail stores like Walmart, making it convenient to select, purchase, and donate gifts in one stop. Additionally, Lower Cape Fear organizations organize toy drives, collecting new, unwrapped toys for children in the area.
Volunteer Opportunities
If you’re unable to donate gifts, consider volunteering your time to local charities that need extra help during the busy holiday season. Many organizations in the Lower Cape Fear region rely on volunteers to make their charitable activities a success. By giving back, you can enhance the meaning of the holiday season for both locals and visitors.
Planning Your Perfect Christmas Visit to Wilmington
Wilmington, North Carolina, transforms into a holiday paradise during Christmas, offering a wide range of events and activities for all ages. To make the most of your visit, consider planning your trip around key events like the tree lighting ceremonies in downtown Wilmington and Carolina Beach.
For a weekend getaway, focus on experiencing the historic home holiday tours and the enchanting light displays at Enchanted Airlie. For a longer stay, explore the various holiday markets and shows at Thalian Hall and Wilson Center. Book your accommodations in downtown Wilmington or near Carolina Beach to be close to the action.
Don’t forget to check the timeline of events and plan for nighttime activities like the holiday flotillas and light displays. With some planning, you can create a truly memorable Wilmington Christmas experience.
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