Visit Wilmington and discover the charm and magic of historic downtown during the holidays. See downtown come alive with colorful twinkling lights, festive events, flavors at award-winning restaurants and one-of-a-kind experiences, including special drone shows on the riverfront. Stroll along the illuminated Riverwalk and take in the sights of downtown’s decorated historic homes, main streets and boutique storefronts. Whether you're shopping for the perfect gift, savoring a fresh-to-table seasonal meal, sipping craft cocktails in a hidden speakeasy or catching a live performance in a majestic theater, you'll find Wilmington’s holiday spirit shines. There’s no place like our home for the holidays.
Don’t miss the highlight of Wilmington’s holiday season—the dazzling drone shows lighting up the downtown riverfront. Watch as hundreds of drones create a stunning display over the water, blending festive imagery with cutting-edge technology.
Drone Show Schedule:
When: Dec. 14, 21 and 28 at 7 p.m.
Where: Water Street on Wilmington’s Riverfront
While downtown for the show, treat yourself to a cozy carriage ride through Wilmington’s National Register Historic District, where homes are transformed with festive decorations. Experience the timeless charm of candlelight home tours offering a glimpse into beautifully adorned homes.
Kick off the season with dinner on the downtown historic riverfront, then catch a seasonal show at The Wilson Center like Mannheim Steamroller Nov. 21 or North Carolina Symphony's joyful Holiday Pops Concert Dec.10. Visit the majestic Thalian Hall for performances like The Nutcracker Dec. 6-7, White Christmas: The Musical Dec. 13-15 and 19-22 and enjoy the beloved holiday classic screening of It’s a Wonderful Life Dec. 23, just to name a few.
Enjoy live music while supporting local at the Really Cool Stuff Holiday Market Nov. 30, which features goods from more than 60 regional artists and creators. Warm up with a cup of hot cocoa or seasonal coffee as you explore the Brooklyn Arts Center’s Holiday Market on Dec. 6-8, a three-day event where you can find unique, handcrafted gifts. Shop one-of-a-kind gifts from local artists at the Colonial Christmas Open House & Craft Market in the historic gardens at the Burgwin-Wright House Dec. 14. Stroll through downtown’s charming boutiques and shops: Candles Etc. sells locally made soy candles inspired by the smells of our coastal destination; Cape Fear Spice Merchants features more than 185 different loose-leaf teas, coffees and eclectic spices; or Edge of Urge specializes in handmade and independent designer clothing, shoes and jewelry as just a few places to get started. Don’t miss A Christmas Shoppe on Front Street, Wilmington's only year-round Christmas store.
At the Cotton Exchange, eight restored historic buildings are home to more than 30 specialty shops and restaurants connected by open-air courtyards. Here you’ll uncover a variety of local treasures, from handcrafted jewelry to original artwork—and even gifts for your furry friends. As you make your way to the south end of downtown, stop by Chandler’s Wharf to shop locally-owned artisans to find treasures that are sure to impress.
Noteworthy Noshes
Indulge in coastal fare at Wilmington's award-winning restaurants. Sample artful cuisine from James Beard-nominated chefs at local favorites like Seabird, Catch and Olivero. Or, head to manna ave. 123, Wilmington's only AAA Four Diamond Award-winning restaurant, to enjoy seasonal ingredients and modern ambiance. These acclaimed restaurants, along with RX Chicken and Oysters and Wilmington’s other culinary gems, will make the perfect pairing with your downtown holiday experience.
Celebrate early with the whole family with kid-friendly activities and a juice toast at New Year’s Noon at the Children’s Museum of Wilmington. Or, ring in the New Year in style at Thalian Hall with their New Year's Eve Gala with Caberet - an elegant evening of glamour and entertainment complete with NYE cocktails, dinner, dessert, and drinks and a live performance of the popular musical Cabaret. After the show, the party continues as you dance the night away with the cast in the grand Ballroom. These are just a sampling.
Holidays on Water
Special Offers & Packages
Make the most of your holiday season by staying right in the heart of downtown Wilmington where special events are just steps away. From boutique inns to Bed & Breakfasts to riverfront hotels, check out these special holiday offers and packages to enjoy a front-row seat to all the Holidays on Water fun. All offers are subject to availability.
Find your downtown destination and easy parking with this interactive map!
Check back often as events and offers are added as they become available.
This project is being supported in whole or in part by federal award number SLT-0864 awarded to the City of Wilmington and subsequently the New Hanover County Tourism Development Authority by the US Department of the Treasury.
For more festive fun, check out what's happening at our three island beaches: Carolina, Kure and Wrightsville.
