Annual Events In Wilmington NC

Wilmington, North Carolina has a wide array of annual events to please every visitor and resident. From film and music to arts and nature, Wilmington hosts exciting events all year long.

Here are a few of our favorite Wilmington NC events:

Cucalorus Independent Film Festival

Location: Downton Wilmington, North Carolina

Held Annually during November

Wilmington, NC earned the moniker “Hollywood East” in the 80s and 90s and is still a prominent location for cinema and tv production. Since 1995, Wilmington spotlights this achievement by hosting the annual, nationally recognized Cucalorus Independent Film Festival.  

Held every November, producers, actors, performers, fans, and more come together to share their art and celebrate. With both film showings and stage performances, there’s plenty of ways to connect.

North Carolina Azalea Festival

Location: Multiple locations, Wilmington, North Carolina

Held Annually during April

You can’t discuss Wilmington events without mentioning the Azalea Festival. With over 20 events in one festival, the North Carolina Azalea Festival is a premier event. From the streets to auditoriums, the Azalea Festival transforms Wilmington into a hub of celebration.

For a full week every April, you can enjoy natural beauty, big-name entertainment, pageantry, galas, and good old Southern hospitality. 

North Carolina Jazz Festival

Location: Hotel Ballast and on the banks of the Cape Fear River, Downtown Wilmington, NC

Held Annually during January

With over 4o years under its belt, the North Carolina Jazz Festival celebrates everything JAZZ. Founded by a local dermatologist and consummate jazz lover in 1980, it has since brought fans and musicians together to revel in Jazz music and history, while promoting musical education. The festival brings all-stars and rising stars to the stage, and fans from all over the world to its audience. 

Wilmington Antique Show & Sale

Location: The Wilson Center, Wilmington, NC

Held annually during January

Recently celebrating its 50^th anniversary, the Wilmington Antique Show & Sale brings Antique aficionados from far and wide. More than 30 dealers from around the country offer fine antiques, vintage items, and collectible. Best of all, this Wilmington annual event benefits community charities, scholarships, and local projects.

Cape Fear Blues Festival

Location: multiple locations in Wilmington, NC

Held Annually during June

One of Cape Fear Blues Society’s most popular events, the Cape Fear Blues Festival hosts indoor and outdoor performances. Get your fill of blues, funk, and R&B from morning to night, and all through the weekend.

Cape Fear Kite Festival

Location: Fort Fisher State Recreation Area, Wilmington, NC

Held annually the first FULL weekend of November

The Cape Fear Kite Festival brings childlike joy to all ages. Giant kites of all shapes and colors fill the sky and inspire those below. It’s non-competitive and not for profit. It’s just for fun!