Living like a local: Sounds of summer
Since its completion in 2021, Live Oak Bank Pavilion at Riverfront Park has drawn big-name acts to Wilmington for waterfront performances. (File photo)
Summer is here and that means outdoor concerts! Wilmington offers a variety of shows, whether you want to see acts large or small, be on the beach or downtown, splurge on something special or attend for free. Our coastal town delivers plenty of options for everyone.
Previously known as the Downtown Sundown shows, the Friday Night Live! concert series in downtown Wilmington provides a great opportunity for excellent views and fun music. The shows feature cover bands performing popular music for all to enjoy every Friday at Marina Grill starting at 6:30 p.m. The Marina Grill sits on the Pier at Port City Marina overlooking the Cape Fear River. My favorite thing to do is stroll down the boardwalk and enjoy a cocktail while listening to the music. The music is free, and Marina Grill is right there if you want dinner and drinks!
If you are in the mood for some larger bands or shows in general, the Live Oak Bank Pavilion at Riverfront Park is the place to be. At this location, you can see a variety of shows including up-and-coming musicians, well-known bands and even comedians. This venue has reserved seating and a lawn section for general admission. The lawn seats allow for an amazing view of the Cape Fear River! At the Live Oak Bank Pavilion, you will be able to purchase concessions, cocktails and meals from local food trucks.
As we all know, I love Wrightsville Beach and they too offer free summer concerts. The WECT Sounds of Summer Concert Series in the Wrightsville Beach Park is a terrific place to take in a show while appreciating gorgeous ocean marsh views. These concerts take place Thursday evenings at 6:30 p.m. Here, you could hear popular rock, classic rock or country music performed by a mix of local and out-of-town bands. You can bring your beach chairs and a picnic to help you relax while you listen to the music. The Wrightsville Beach Park provides parking that is free for two hours, plus pickleball courts and a playground — something for everyone!
Not to be outdone, Carolina Beach also has music on Thursday nights. Their concerts are followed by a fireworks display. No need to wait for the high holidays, these fireworks are every Thursday at 9 p.m. and the music starts at 6:30 p.m. These concerts are located on the boardwalk, which is beautiful, easy to walk and a great way to watch the ocean waves as they roll in. Carolina Beach also offers free outdoor movies on Sundays, shown at the lake at dusk. These movies are family-friendly, so bring a blanket and enjoy.
Airlie Gardens is a must-see throughout the year. I’ve mentioned the incredible light display at Christmastime. It is also a great place to visit during the different seasons to wander and enjoy the gardens and art displays. But that’s not all they offer; there is also live music! Throughout the summer, guests can enjoy music on the lawn by the famous Airlie Oak tree. Concerts start at 6 p.m. on Fridays, and tickets for people 13 and older are $10 and only $3 for ages 4-12. Don’t forget to bring blankets or chairs for the show! The parking is off-site, but there is a free shuttle service. I highly recommend this event.
No matter where you go, the music will be fun and the location splendid! I love all the events that happen locally in the summer! It’s a perfect way to enjoy the community and the outside air. Plus, these take place after the direct heat of the sun has settled for the day. I hope everyone finds a chance to get outside and live like a local!
