32 of the best November events and festivals around Wilmington

November is bringing a packed calendar of festivals, live entertainment and holiday celebrations to Wilmington and the surrounding coastal communities. From food and music festivals to local markets and community gatherings, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season.

As Thanksgiving approaches, the festivities continue with holiday light displays, festive parades and seasonal traditions across the Cape Fear region.

Whether you're planning a weekend outing, looking for family-friendly fun or getting an early start on the holidays, here are 32 events and festivals to check out around Wilmington this November.

Key takeaways

• The bigger picture: November brings 32 events and festivals to Wilmington and nearby communities, from outdoor celebrations and live performances to holiday traditions.
• The details: Highlights include the Cape Fear Kite Festival, International Festival, Cucalorus Film Festival, Enchanted Airlie and the NC Holiday Flotilla.
• Why it matters: These events offer opportunities to enjoy local food, music, art and seasonal activities while supporting businesses and organizations throughout the Cape Fear region.
• The more you know: Many events are free to attend, while popular concerts, food festivals and holiday attractions may require advance tickets or reservations.

Best festivals in Wilmington this November

Cape Fear Kite Festival

Colorful kites of all shapes and sizes will fill the sky during the Cape Fear Kite Festival at Fort Fisher State Recreation Area. Professional kite flyers will showcase their creations throughout the weekend, with live music, food trucks and vendors adding to the festivities. Additional activities are planned at Kure Beach Pier and Carolina Beach on Friday.

• Date: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 6; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, Nov. 7-8 
• Location: 1000 Loggerhead Road, Kure Beach

Good to know: Free for spectators. Food and drinks are available for purchase, and leashed dogs are welcome during the weekend festivities.

Annual Polish Festival

Enjoy an afternoon of Polish food, music and traditions at the annual Polish Festival in Castle Hayne. Visitors can sample kielbasa, pierogi, stuffed cabbage, pastries and other specialties while enjoying live entertainment from an authentic Blaskapelle band. The festival also includes children's activities, crafts and raffles.

• Date: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 7
• Location: 4849 Castle Hayne Road, Castle Hayne

Good to know: Admission and parking are free. Food and drinks are available for purchase.

Applearchy Cider Festival

Cider enthusiasts can sample a variety of ciders and fruit-inspired beers during the fourth annual Applearchy Cider Festival at Brunswick Beer and Cider. General admission includes a 5-ounce tasting glass for unlimited samples, while VIP admission offers early entry, exclusive ciders and a special gift.

• Date: Noon-5 p.m. Nov. 7
• Location: Brunswick Beer and Cider, 1313 S. Dickinson Drive, Leland

Good to know: General admission is $35, with tastings beginning at 1 p.m. VIP admission is $45 and includes entry at noon.

Fall Feast: Autumn in the South

Sample seasonal dishes from 12 regional chefs during Fall Feast: Autumn in the South at Canterbury Stables. The outdoor culinary event features signature dishes, live music, seasonal cocktails, beer and wine. Guests can also vote for their favorite dish in the People's Choice competition.

• Date: 4-8 p.m. Nov. 7
• Location: Canterbury Stables, 6021 Wrightsville Ave., Wilmington

Good to know: Tickets start at $125, plus taxes and fees.

Out to Sea NC Seafood Festival

Celebrate North Carolina seafood during this three-day culinary festival hosted by Seabird. The event brings together local chefs for a series of food experiences at different venues, combining regional seafood dishes with opportunities to learn more about the area's culinary traditions. Guests can choose individual events or attend multiple experiences.

• Date: Nov. 8-10; times vary by event
• Location: 1 S. Front St., Wilmington

Good to know: Ticket prices vary by experience. Check the event schedule for individual offerings and reservations.

BAD Day Music & Arts Festival

The Brooklyn Arts District comes alive with music, art and entertainment during BAD Day. The festival features performances from artists including The Revivalists, Grace Potter, Ripe and Futurebirds, along with a free North Fourth Street festival village filled with arts and crafts vendors, food and family activities. Visitors can also explore wellness experiences and separately ticketed evening festivities.

• Date: Beginning at 11 a.m. Nov. 14; times vary by experience
• Location: 516 N. Fourth St., Wilmington

Good to know: The festival village is free to enter. Concert tickets range from $149 to $233, with children 12 and younger admitted free.

International Festival

Celebrate cultures from around the world at the International Festival, formerly known as Festival Latino. The two-day event features international food, live music, traditional dance performances and vendors. Families can also enjoy the Kids Fiesta Area, complete with carnival games, inflatable rides and other activities.

• Date: 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14; noon-7 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 15
• Location: 7069 Market St., Wilmington

Good to know: Admission is free. Food and drinks are available for purchase.

Taste of Wrightsville Beach

Sample dishes and drinks from Wrightsville Beach-area restaurants during this waterfront food festival. More than 40 food, wine and beer tasting booths will be set up under a heated tent, with celebrity judges selecting a Best in Show winner and attendees voting for the People's Choice award.

• Date: 5-8 p.m. Nov. 14
• Location: 4 Marina St., Wrightsville Beach

Good to know: General admission is $100, with $25 admission for guests younger than 21. The event frequently sells out, so advance tickets are recommended.

Cucalorus Film Festival

Wilmington's annual Cucalorus Film Festival returns with four days of independent films, live performances and creative programming. Known for its unconventional approach to film festivals, Cucalorus features international films, dance, music, comedy, theater and Connect Conference events focused on entrepreneurship and innovation.

• Date: Nov. 19-22; times vary by event
• Location: 815 Princess St., Wilmington, and other festival venues

Good to know: Individual tickets and festival passes are available, with prices depending on the selected events.

Best November events and activities around Wilmington 

Free Walk & Talk with Farm Manager

Explore the gardens and nursery at Shelton Herb Farm during a free guided walk with the farm manager. Participants will learn about culinary and medicinal herbs, how different plants are grown and ways to use them at home. The tour changes with the season depending on what's growing at the farm.

• Date: Nov. 3; time varies
• Location: 340 Goodman Road NE, Leland

Good to know: Free and open to all ages. Wear comfortable closed-toe shoes. The event takes place rain or shine.

Abbamania

Enjoy an evening celebrating the music of ABBA when Abbamania comes to historic Thalian Hall as part of its Main Attraction Series. The performance offers a night of live entertainment in one of Wilmington's best-known historic theaters.

• Date: 7:30 p.m. Nov. 5
• Location: 310 Chestnut St., Wilmington

Good to know: Check Thalian Hall for ticket prices and availability.

The Electric Light Orchestra Experience

Hear the music of Jeff Lynne's Electric Light Orchestra performed live at the Wilson Center. The multimedia concert features the 12-piece band Evil Woman alongside musicians from the Wilmington Symphony Orchestra's string section, performing favorites such as "Mr. Blue Sky," "Telephone Line" and "Don't Bring Me Down."

• Date: 7:30 p.m. Nov. 6
• Location: 703 N. Third St., Wilmington

Good to know: Tickets start at $35. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

Veterans Day Celebration

Step back into the 1940s during a USO-style variety show and dance at the Hannah Block Historic USO/Community Arts Center. The evening begins with a complimentary swing dance lesson from the Cape Fear Swing Dance Society, followed by live orchestra music, entertainment and dancing in the restored historic building.

• Date: 7-10 p.m. Nov. 6
• Location: Hannah Block Historic USO/Community Arts Center, 120 S. Second St., Wilmington

Good to know: Tickets are $20. The swing dance lesson begins at 7 p.m., and no partner is needed.

Outlander in the Cape Fear Walking Tour

Explore historic downtown Wilmington through the stories and settings connected to the popular Outlander book and television series. Led by local historian Hunter Ingram, this 90-minute walking tour follows locations inspired by the experiences of Claire and Jamie Fraser and connects the fictional series with Cape Fear history.

• Date: 9 a.m. Nov. 7 and 13
• Location: 224 Market St., Wilmington

Good to know: Tickets are $25 plus tax. Call (910) 762-0570 to reserve a spot.

Free Murrayville Tree Giveaway

The Alliance for Cape Fear Trees and New Hanover County will distribute 1,000 native canopy trees to county residents during this community giveaway. The event focuses on expanding tree coverage in Murrayville, where canopy coverage is particularly limited.

• Date: 9 a.m.-noon Nov. 7
• Location: 225 Mabee Way, Wilmington

Good to know: Trees are free. Murrayville residents receive priority until 11 a.m., after which remaining trees will be available to all New Hanover County residents while supplies last.

Veterans Parade & Celebration

Honor local veterans during the annual Southeast North Carolina Veterans Parade in downtown Wilmington. The celebration features marching bands, military units, pipe and drum corps and community groups. Live entertainment begins before the parade, which travels along North Third Street toward Market Street.

• Date: 10 a.m. Nov. 7; parade begins at 11 a.m.
• Location: North Third Street, from Harnett Street to Market Street, Wilmington

Good to know: Free for spectators. North Third Street offers recommended viewing locations, and veterans are invited to participate.

Canines for Service Veterans Day

Celebrate Veterans Day while learning about Canines for Service, an organization that partners veterans with service dogs. This community gathering at The Eagles Dare includes food, opportunities to connect with the organization and the launch of its year-end fundraising campaign.

• Date: 6-8 p.m. Nov. 11
• Location: 420 N. Third St., Wilmington

Good to know: Free and open to the community. RSVPs are requested at [email protected].

Battleship Half Marathon, 10K & 5K

Runners and spectators can enjoy views of historic Wilmington during the annual Battleship Half Marathon, 10K and 5K. The courses take participants through downtown, past Battleship NORTH CAROLINA, across bridges and through Greenfield Park before finishing along the Riverwalk.

• Date: 6:45 a.m. Nov. 15
• Location: 1 Battleship Road, Wilmington

Good to know: Free for spectators. Race registration information is available through the event website.

Holiday Centerpiece Workshop

Create a seasonal centerpiece using greenery, dried flowers and other natural materials during this hands-on workshop at Shelton Herb Farm. All materials are provided, including ribbons, decorations and a miniature basket. The finished arrangement can also be placed outdoors for birds to enjoy after the holidays.

• Date: 1-2:30 p.m. Nov. 17
• Location: 340 Goodman Road NE, Leland

Good to know: Admission is $60.54. Wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes. The workshop takes place rain or shine.

Candlelight Tour at Moores Creek National Battlefield

Travel back to 1776 during a candlelit walking tour of Moores Creek National Battlefield. More than 600 candles will illuminate the three-quarter-mile trail as costumed guides and historical reenactors share stories about the Battle of Moores Creek Bridge.

• Date: 5:30-9:15 p.m. Nov. 21
• Location: 40 Patriots Hall Drive, Currie

Good to know: Free, but reservations are required. Tours depart every 15 minutes, and the walk takes approximately 45 minutes over some uneven terrain.

Full Moon Party

Spend an evening by the ocean during the Full Moon Party at Carolina Beach Pier. This relaxed gathering features music, coastal views and opportunities to enjoy food, drinks or ice cream while watching the moon rise over the water.

• Date: 7-10 p.m. Nov. 23
• Location: 1800 Carolina Beach Ave. N., Carolina Beach

Good to know: This event is free for patrons. Families and leashed dogs are welcome. Activities may move indoors during bad weather.

Best holiday events around Wilmington in November

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas

Celebrate the start of the holiday season with Mannheim Steamroller Christmas at the Wilson Center. Created by Grammy-winning composer Chip Davis, the show combines familiar Christmas music with the group's signature sound and multimedia effects for a festive concert experience.

• Date: 3 and 7:30 p.m. Nov. 20
• Location: 703 N. Third St., Wilmington

Good to know: Tickets start at $48. Advance reservations are recommended.

Kure Beach Holiday Market

Shop for handmade gifts while enjoying ocean views at the Kure Beach Holiday Market. Local artists, artisans and crafters will offer a variety of seasonal items at Ocean Front Park, with music from a DJ and food trucks available throughout the day.

• Date: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Nov. 21 and 28
• Location: 105 Atlantic Ave., Kure Beach

Good to know: Admission is free. Additional event details will be announced closer to the dates.

The Merry Market on the Beach

Kick off the holiday shopping season at this oceanside Christmas market at Carolina Beach Pier. The afternoon features dozens of vendors, festive German music and an indoor Christmas pop-up bar, offering a coastal twist on a traditional holiday market.

• Date: Noon-4 p.m. Nov. 21
• Location: 1800 Carolina Beach Ave. N., Carolina Beach

Good to know: Admission is free. Food, drinks and merchandise are available for purchase.

Wilmington Christkindlmarkt German Festival

Experience a German-inspired holiday celebration at Wilmington's ninth annual Christkindlmarkt. The festival features more than 55 market vendors, traditional German beer, seasonal food, live music, dance performances and a petting zoo for younger visitors.

• Date: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 21
• Location: 612 S. College Road, Wilmington

Good to know: Admission is free. Food, drinks and vendor items are available for purchase.

Cape Fear Habitat Turkey Trot

Start Thanksgiving morning with a run or walk through historic downtown Wilmington during the annual Cape Fear Habitat Turkey Trot. Participants can choose between a timed 5K and a one-mile run or walk, with costumes, prizes and plenty of holiday spirit along the route.

• Date: 8 a.m. Nov. 26 for the one-mile run/walk; 8:30 a.m. for the 5K
• Location: 10-A Cowan St., Wilmington

Good to know: Free to attend. Registration is required for participants, and the event often sells out.

Enchanted Airlie

One of Wilmington's best-known holiday traditions returns as Airlie Gardens transforms into a display of millions of twinkling lights. Visitors can stroll through illuminated gardens, enjoy holiday flowers and listen to seasonal music during this annual celebration.

• Date: Timed-entry sessions at 5:30, 6:30, 7:30 and 8:30 p.m. Nov. 27-Dec. 21
• Location: 300 Airlie Road, Wilmington

Good to know: Advance tickets are required and frequently sell out. Check the official website for 2026 ticket prices and availability.

Island of Lights: Lighting at the Lake

Carolina Beach begins its holiday celebrations with the annual Lighting at the Lake. Visitors can walk the one-mile trail around Carolina Beach Lake to see illuminated displays, enjoy festive decorations and visit with Santa. The lights remain on display throughout the holiday season.

• Date: Nov. 27; time to be announced 
• Location: Carolina Beach Lake Park, North Lake Park Boulevard and Atlanta Avenue, Carolina Beach

Good to know: Admission is free. Festivities have traditionally begun around 6 p.m., with the lighting around 7 p.m., but this year's schedule has not been confirmed.

Downtown District Day

Celebrate Small Business Saturday by exploring Wilmington's seven downtown districts during Downtown District Day. Three free trolleys will transport visitors between neighborhoods, making it easy to discover local shops, restaurants and attractions. Participating businesses may also offer special deals, food trucks, live music and seasonal activities.

• Date: Noon-7 p.m. Nov. 28
• Location: Seven downtown Wilmington districts, including Brooklyn Arts, Castle Street, Cargo District and South Front

Good to know: The event and trolley rides are free. Visitors can begin at any downtown parking deck and use the event's live trolley map to follow routes.

NC Holiday Flotilla at Wrightsville Beach

Celebrate the holidays on the water during the annual NC Holiday Flotilla. Saturday's festivities include a Festival in the Park with more than 100 arts and crafts vendors, an antique car show, children's activities and food. The evening features a parade of decorated boats along the water, followed by fireworks.

• Date: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 28 for the park festival; boat parade and fireworks begin at 6 p.m.
• Location: Wrightsville Beach, with festival activities at Wrightsville Beach Park

Good to know: Free for spectators. The celebration also includes a tree-lighting ceremony on Friday, Nov. 27.

Santa by the Sea

Enjoy an evening of holiday activities at Carolina Beach Lake Park during Santa by the Sea. The lakeside park will be decorated with festive lights, with special seasonal programming offering another opportunity for families to celebrate the holidays along the coast.

• Date: 5-7 p.m. Nov. 28
• Location: Carolina Beach Lake Park, Carolina Beach

Good to know: Free for spectators. Some activities are weather-dependent, and additional programming is scheduled for December.

Wilmington Holiday Parade

Downtown Wilmington will welcome the holiday season with its annual illuminated parade. Marching bands, decorated floats, performers and Santa Claus will travel through historic downtown, bringing music, lights and festive entertainment to the streets.

• Date: 6-8:30 p.m. Nov. 29
• Location: North Front Street, from Walnut Street to Church Street, Wilmington

Good to know: Free for spectators. Check the city's event updates for the confirmed parade schedule and route.

FAQs

What festivals are happening around Wilmington in November 2026?

November festivals include the Cape Fear Kite Festival, Annual Polish Festival, Applearchy Cider Festival, Fall Feast, International Festival, Taste of Wrightsville Beach and Cucalorus Film Festival.

What free events can I attend in Wilmington this November?

Free events include the Cape Fear Kite Festival, Annual Polish Festival, International Festival, Veterans Parade & Celebration, Kure Beach Holiday Market, Downtown District Day and Wilmington Holiday Parade.

What holiday events are happening around Wilmington in November?

Holiday highlights include Enchanted Airlie, Mannheim Steamroller Christmas, Wilmington Christkindlmarkt, the NC Holiday Flotilla, Island of Lights and the Wilmington Holiday Parade.

Are there family-friendly November events around Wilmington?

Yes. Families can enjoy the Cape Fear Kite Festival, International Festival, Veterans Parade, holiday markets, NC Holiday Flotilla and Wilmington Holiday Parade. Several events offer free admission.

Do I need tickets for November events in Wilmington?

It depends on the event. Many festivals, parades and holiday markets are free, while concerts, culinary experiences and attractions such as Enchanted Airlie require tickets. Check event websites for availability and reservation details.