The Bellamy Mansion Museum is located at 503 Market Street. It hosts the Night of Lights, a free public event. When you visit during Christmas time, you can tour the historic home where it’s decorated in traditional Christmas décor.
Regular tour hours are between 10 am and 4 pm. The museum is open all days of the week.
There are various holiday markets set up by different organizations in the region. One such market is the Really Cool Stuff Holiday Market held by Cool Wilmington. It is located in the South Front District. You will find food and craft vendors on South Front Street.
Another institution that holds a holiday market is the Mayfaire Towne Center.It is located at 6835 Conservation Way. The market includes local vendors and giveaways of all kinds.
Thalian Hall, found on 310 Chestnut Street, holds great Christmas shows. A memorable one was the incredible production of Green Day’s American Idiot. There are many theatrical performances held at the hall throughout the year. In December, a lot of the performances are Christmas-themed.
Some recurring ones include:
You can find an official schedule on the official website. Tickets are bought online before the day to reserve seats.
Wilmington’s oldest brewery is known as Front Street Brewery. It is located on 9N Front Street. You will find various flagship beers and a lot of seasonal ones too. When you visit in December, Tiny Tim’s Christmas Ale is served throughout. You can order it by the glass, or fill a larger growler as a takeaway.
Usually, looking at a parking meter means you have to part with some of your money. However, in Carolina Beach, parking meters have a whole new meaning. The Parking Meters on Parade is an event that allows businesses to decorate. Some of the parking meter designs are very creative. It is a great way for locals and businesses to come together and have fun.
Some of the attractions at the Wilmington Railroad Museum during Christmas include:
These events take place between November 26 and December 18. Decorations are placed outside the museum for those who will not have time to go in. The museum opens from Monday to Saturday. The operating time is between 10 am and 4 pm. A small entry fee is charged.
Enjoy time at the beach for a one-of-a-kind Christmas. At Carolina Beach, you can build sandcastles and take part in the Holiday Sandcastle Competition.
If you only want to watch, the oceanfront gazebo offers a great view.
These two events are held at 8884 St Phillips Rd SE, Winnabow. They are hosted by Brunswick Town and Fort Anderson State Historic Site.
You can visit St Philips Church in Brunswick for the most incredible holiday decor. The church goes all out, and even includes candlelight in the greenery. Entry is free and everyone is welcome.
The 18th Century Christmas is held the next day. You will find costumed interpreters offering guided tours. There are refreshments that are 18th century themed. You can play traditional games and make themed crafts. It will cost you $5 to attend.
This is one of the memorable annual traditions of Wilmington. It is held at the lake at Carolina Beach. It is at the intersection of Lake Park Blvd and Atlanta Ave. You will enjoy a parade with Santa making an appearance at the end. There are wonderful Christmas lights lit all around the park.
Airlie Gardens hosts the annual Enchanted Airlie. Lights fill the entire botanical garden to give a magical sight.
To enter, you will pay $30 for a carload. You should reserve your tickets beforehand.
In December, you can go with Santa and his “reindeer” on a tour of Wilmington. The tour takes place in a horse-drawn carriage. It begins downtown at Market and Water Streets.
You will learn about the city’s history as you ride around. Blankets are provided to keep you warm. The Christmas lights are the best part of the tour. Tickets cost $6 per child and $14 for adults. Each child receives free candy canes.
The best thing about the Holiday Harbor Cruise is the Christmas lights on the water. They offer an amazing spectacle and are the best Christmas treat. The cruise departs from the south dock of the Blockade Runner Beach Resort. It follows the path around the harbor and takes about an hour.
It costs $25 for children and $45 for adults.