Events

With the beautiful Cape Fear River as a backdrop and stunning historic architecture lining our streets, downtown hosts a wide variety of festivals, fairs, markets, performances, and community celebrations throughout the year. These events wind through our vibrant districts and support the many local shops, restaurants, galleries, and businesses that make downtown so special.

The Downtown Business Alliance (DBA) proudly sponsors several annual events, including:

• Wine & Beer Walks, Coffee Crawls, Margharita crawls
• St. Patrick’s Day Festival
• American Craft Walk Wilmington
• Holiday Window Decorating Contest

Spring brings the world-renowned North Carolina Azalea Festival, culminating in the popular Azalea Street Fair in downtown Wilmington. In October, thousands gather along the riverfront for Riverfest, one of the region’s largest annual celebrations.

The Holidays on Water kicks off on Thanksgiving Day with the Turkey Trot, followed by the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday evening at the foot of Market Street. Families can enjoy visits with Santa, complimentary hot cocoa, and festive entertainment. The celebration continues with Small Business Saturday, District Day featuring free trolley transportation throughout downtown, and an exciting evening drone light show.

Food lovers also look forward to Feast Wilmington, a four-event culinary experience held over three days each spring. Featuring more than 70 restaurants, 20 breweries, wines, spirits, and live music along the riverfront, the event showcases the best of Wilmington’s food and beverage scene.

During the busy season, visitors can enjoy:

• The Downtown Farmers Market every Saturday from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Dock Street
• The Historic Marketplace every Sunday on Front Street between Dock and Market Streets

And the excitement doesn’t stop there. Throughout the year, downtown is home to live music, comedy shows, theater productions, conventions, and cultural events at venues including Thalian Association ,Thalian Hall, the Wilson Center, the Convention Center, and other local entertainment destinations.

Downtown Wilmington is rarely uneventful. Whether you’re a resident, a business owner, or a visitor, there is always a reason to come downtown and experience everything our community has to offer.

We hope to see you downtown soon!