Events
Poplar Grove Open-Air Market
Wednesdays in August (Aug 6, 13, 20, 27) | 9?AM–1?PM
Poplar Grove Plantation, Wilmington
A weekly gem under sprawling oak trees, featuring local artisans, fresh produce, and live music in a charming historic setting. Perfect for brunch-lovers, craft hunters, and families looking for a scenic weekday outing.
Sunset Beach “Market in the Park”
Thursdays in August (Aug 7, 14, 21, 28) | 9?AM–1?PM
Sunset Beach Town Park
Coastal breezes and artisan stalls packed with beach finds, handmade crafts, and seafood treats—ideal for a shoreline stroll or lunch by the water. Rain or shine fun with relaxed island vibes.
Wilmington Sharks Baseball Games
Throughout August
The “Shark Tank” at Legion Stadium, Wilmington
Catch collegiate summer baseball under stadium lights—affordable, family-friendly, full of energy, mascot fun, and ballpark snacks. A classic warm-weather outing perfect for local sports lovers.
Free Summer Movies at the Lake
Sundays, Aug 3–31 | Evening showtimes
Carolina Beach Lake Park
Bring blankets and snacks for weekly outdoor family flicks under the stars beside the lake—free and fun for all ages. A great way to cool off and enjoy the summer’s end.
Bald Head Island Pirate Invasion
July 31–Aug 2, 2025
Bald Head Island
Swashbuckling adventure time with live pirate encampments, treasure hunts, sea-shanty music, and cannon blasts on the beach—a perfect backyard pirate fantasy. Family-friendly fun just a ferry ride away.
Cucalorus Summer Film Series at Jengo’s Playhouse
Various screenings in August
Jengo’s Playhouse, Downtown Wilmington
Catch independent films, quirky classics, and documentary gems curated by the Cucalorus team—tickets are affordable and some screenings include Q&As or refreshments. An artsy evening out that supports local film culture.
Surf & Skate Adaptive Athletes: Life Rolls On
August 2–3
Carolina Beach & Wrightsville Beach
Inclusive surfing and skateboarding demos empower athletes of all abilities with excitement, community spirit, and a breeze of ocean joy. A powerful, inspiring beachside weekend.
Airlie Gardens – New Hanover County Resident Free Day
Sunday, August 3, 2025 • All day
Airlie Gardens, Wilmington
Free admission for county residents (with ID), granting access to lush gardens, educational exhibits, and the popular Birds of a Feather sculpture walk—perfect for a relaxed outdoor outing. Reservations are required, so plan ahead!
National Lighthouse Day Weekend
Thursday–Saturday, Aug 7–9
Bald Head Island, NC
Climb historic Old Baldy Lighthouse, join guided tours, enjoy beachside vendors and storytelling by the sea—an educational celebration with coastal views. Ideal for history buffs and lighthouse lovers.
Concerts in the Park at Wrightsville Beach
Thursday, August 7 • 6:30–8 PM (Rain date)
Wrightsville Beach Park
Pack a beach blanket for live lawn music by food trucks overlooking the marsh—bring the family and picnic coastal-style while the tunes roll. Free, fun, and totally relaxed.
Airlie Gardens Summer Concert: Jack Jack 180
Friday, Aug 8 | 6?PM–8?PM
Airlie Gardens, Wilmington
Jack Jack 180 brings upbeat party rock, funk, and pop to botanical surroundings—dancing under the oaks with fireflies included. A perfect blend of nature, music, and summer breeze.
Community Back-to-School Giveaway & Fun Day in the Park
Saturday, August 9 • 3?PM
Long Leaf Park, Wilmington
Local organizations team up to hand out school supplies, snacks, games, and giveaways—plus face-painting and bounce houses for the kiddos. A feel-good afternoon that blends community support with fun park time.
Run for the Light 5K/10K & 1 Mile Run
Friday, August 8th, 2025
101 Lighthouse Wynd, Bald Head Island, NC
Lace up your sneakers and join us on Friday, August 8th for the Run for the Light 5K, 10K, and 1 Mile Run—an unforgettable event celebrating National Lighthouse Day with the Old Baldy Foundation.
Cypress Hill & Atmosphere: Dank Daze of Summer Tour
Sunday, Aug 10
Live Oak Bank Pavilion
Legendary hip-hop meets atmospheric beats in this high-energy double billing—expect bold rhymes and crowd chaos under the summer sky. A rare dose of old-school rap power by the riverside.
North Carolina Bubble Fest
Sunday, August 10, 2025
The Bend, Wilmington
Get ready to delight in thousands of shimmering bubbles floating through the summer air—with bubble artists, music, and family activities turning this day into a magical floaty playground. Perfect for all ages and guaranteed smiles.
Jazz Series at Bellamy Mansion
Wednesday, August 13, 2025 • Evening (7?PM approx.)
Bellamy Mansion Museum, Downtown Wilmington
Bring your picnic, lean back on the lawn, and savor live smooth jazz in the elegant grounds of a historic mansion—chill vibes and community ambiance.
Airlie Gardens Summer Concert: Jim Quick & Coastline
Friday, Aug 15 | 6?PM–8?PM
Airlie Gardens, Wilmington
Soulful swamp-blues and R&B tunes drift through the gardens alongside picnic blankets and soft lighting—pure Southern summertime charm. Crowd-pleasing rhythms and a garden party feel.
The Red Clay Strays – “Get Right” Tour
Friday, Aug 15
Live Oak Bank Pavilion, Wilmington
Rising country-rock stars bring feel-good anthems and infectious energy to the amphitheater—think big hooks, tight harmonies, and foot-stomping fun. A must-see for fans of fresh Americana vibes.
Ready, Set, School! Back-to-School Family Fun Festival
Saturday, August 16, 2025
First Baptist Church Activity Center, Wilmington
A community-driven, free event with school supply giveaways, bounce houses, games, and entertainment for kids and teens—plus helpful info booths for parents. A cheerful send-off into the new school year that blends utility with carnival atmosphere.
Fireworks by the Sea & Boardwalk Blast
August 29, 2025
Carolina Beach Boardwalk
Pack up the family and head to the Boardwalk in Carolina Beach. The music at the Carolina Beach Boardwalk Gazebo starts at 6:30 PM followed by the fireworks at 9:00 PM.
Oak Island Arts & Craft Festival
Saturday, August 30 • 9?AM–4?PM
Oak Island, NC
Browse dozens of artisan booths, enjoy food trucks, live music, kids’ crafts, and beachside vibes at this beloved annual fair. Creative fun with the sun, sand, and seaside charm.
Caamp Concert
Sunday, Aug 31
Live Oak Bank Pavilion
Indie-folk beauties Caamp close out August with heartfelt melodies, laughter, and golden-hour vibes—strumming acoustic nostalgia into the river-view night. A cozy concert with big emotional impact.
