Festivals, Live Music, Beach Fun & More from May to August
When it comes to unforgettable summer memories, Wilmington, NC and Wrightsville Beach are packed with family-friendly events that make planning your weekends easy and exciting. Whether you’re a local or planning a beach getaway, something is happening nearly every week. From outdoor concerts and baseball games to waterfront festivals and cultural throwbacks.
Here’s your go-to guide for Wilmington NC summer events, with local tips, dates, and can’t-miss experiences for the whole family.
Spring into Summer: The Azalea Festival Just Wrapped
We kicked off the season with the North Carolina Azalea Festival (April 2–6, 2025), a five-day celebration of gardens, music, parades, and local charm. It’s one of the largest festivals in the Southeast and a true Wilmington tradition.
Mark your calendar: The 2026 Azalea Festival is expected to run from April 8–12. It’s worth planning your trip around!
Family highlights included:
- Street Fair with vendors and food trucks
- Children’s Area with rides and games
- Garden tours at local landmarks like Airlie Gardens
- Parade and fireworks over the Cape Fear River
Riverfront Farmers Market
Where: Dock Street between 2nd & Water
When: Every Saturday, April – November | 8 AM – 1 PM
Not your average farmers market! Along with fresh produce, flowers, and handmade goods, the Riverfront Market features live music, food trucks, and the occasional pop-up event for kids. It’s a great way to kick off a Saturday with the whole family.
Wilmington Sharks Baseball
Where: Buck Hardee Field
When: Season runs May – August
Looking for an affordable night out? Grab some hot dogs and cheer on the Wilmington Sharks, a summer collegiate team with a fun, family-first atmosphere. There are themed nights, fireworks, and even on-field games for kids.
Check out the 2025 schedule
Airlie Gardens Summer Concert Series
Where: Airlie Gardens
When: Every other Friday, May – September
This stunning botanical garden transforms into an outdoor concert venue twice a month. Families bring picnics and dance under the oaks while enjoying regional bands. Some nights sell out—get your tickets early!
Surf Camps, Sand & Sun at Crystal Pier
Where: Wrightsville Beach
When: All Summer Long
While not a “traditional event,” Wrightsville Beach’s surf culture thrives in the summer, with several surf camps offering weekly programs for kids and teens. Look into WB Surf Camp for options.
Bonus tip: Check out informal happenings on Crystal Pier like surf meetups, yoga classes, or local pop-ups. You never know what you’ll find on a sunny weekend.
WECT Sounds of Summer Concerts in the Park
Where: Wrightsville Beach Park
When: Thursdays, June 12 – July 31, 2025 | 6:30 – 8:00 PM
Bring your lawn chairs and blankets for an evening of music and fun! Pack a picnic or enjoy tasty eats from the delicious food trucks. Coolers are welcome, but no alcohol is allowed in Wrightsville Beach Park.
- June 12: Machine Gun Band
- June 19: CMB
- June 26: ReSoul Band
- July 3: Southern Trouble
- July 10: No Regretz
- July 17: Jack Jack 180
- July 24: Port City Shakedown
Exploring with the Family
While you’re hopping between concerts and games, treat the family to a waterfront meal at these spots:
- Dockside Restaurant – great post-farmers market brunch or sunset dinner after Airlie
- Bluewater Grill – prime location for watching the boats
- Wrightsville Beach Museum of History – stop by before or after a Crystal Pier walk
- Wilmington’s Historic District
Bellamy Mansion Museum
The Bellamy Mansion, built between 1859 and 1861, is a mixture of Neoclassical architectural styles, including Greek Revival and Italianate. Situated in Wilmington’s historic district in downtown, you’ll travel back in time to see an example of historic antebellum architecture.
Walk Around Lumina Station
Not to be confused with the Lumina Pavilion where Lumina Daze used to be held, this shopping village by the beach has plenty of locally-owned boutiques, home-goods stores, restaurants, and there’s even a day spa. This is the perfect stop as you’re exploring downtown Wilmington to grab some local goodies.
Battleship North Carolina – The USS North Carolina (BB-55)
Make your way out of the downtown area and head to the water where you’ll find this old battleship-turned-museum. It was the first of its kind to be built for the Navy. Take a tour for a glimpse into a true WWII relic. Education and fun for the whole family.
Final Thoughts on a Smoother North Carolina Summer
- Arrive Early: Parking fills fast for concerts and festivals. Consider carpooling or biking.
- Beach Sherpa Services: Want to save energy for the fun stuff? Let Beach Sherpa handle your chairs, umbrellas, and gear so you can focus on the events.
- Stay Hydrated & Protected: Don’t forget sunscreen and reusable water bottles. Summer sun here is no joke!
Your Family’s Carolina Summer Starts Now
Whether you’re catching live music by the river, dancing under the trees at Airlie, or clapping for home runs at a Sharks game, there’s no shortage of Wilmington NC summer events to enjoy. Bookmark this guide, share it with friends, and start filling up your calendar!
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