New Hanover Beaches Calendar of Events

N.C. Shells Exhibit
Monday, September 10, 2007 - Saturday, May 31, 2008
Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market Street, Wilmington, NC 28401: Explore seashells �" from the common to the rare �" found along the shores of the Cape Fear coast. Discover why our waters are attractive to both tropical and temperate sea critters that leave beautiful and often unique shells for us to enjoy. Learn about the Scotch Bonnet, North Carolina's official state shell �" its habitat and natural history. Macro photography and x-ray imagery provide a stunning perspective of the shells we often view as ordinary. Call 910.798.4350 for more information.

OCEAN: explore. discover
Sunday, February 03, 2008 - Sunday, January 04, 2009
Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market Street, Wilmington, NC 28401: Cape Fear Museum of History and Science, in collaboration with UNCW Center for Marine Science, presents OCEAN: explore. discover. This multimedia, interactive, marine research exhibit encourages visitors to (re)discover the ocean, its influence on us, and our impact on it. Leading ocean research projects in the fields of marine exploration, biotechnology, coastal erosion, commercial fishing and aquaculture are presented through photos, videos, models and hands-on interactive components that challenge visitors to explore their relationship with the ocean. Call 910.798.4350 for more information.

Poplar Grove Farmers' Market
Wednesday, April 09, 2008 - Wednesday, December 17, 2008 (8am - 1pm)
Poplar Grove Plantation, 10200 US Hwy 17 North, Wilmington, NC 28411: Everything at Poplar Grove Farmers' Market is locally grown, raised or made. The market carries a fresh selection of in-season fruits & vegetables, plus plants, cut flowers, cheese, sausage, crab cakes, baked goods, nuts, pickles, herbs, honey and more plus a lovely assortment of beautiful crafts. Wednesday's only. Call 910.686.9518 ext. 26 for more information.

The Wizard of Oz
Thursday, May 15, 2008 - Sunday, May 18, 2008 (8pm)
Thalian Hall, 310 Chestnut Street, Wilmington, NC 28401: Thalian Community Theatre. Little Dorothy Gale from Kansas dreams of what lies beyond the rainbow. One day a twister hits her farm and carries her away to the land of Oz. Her efforts to escape the clutches of a wicked witch and to return home - with the help of her travel companions the Scarecrow, Tin Man and Cowardly Lion - form the narrative arc of this beloved classic. Call 800.523.2820 or 910.343.3664.

10th annual Cape Fear Disabled Sportsman's Tournament
Friday, May 16, 2008
Kure Beach Fishing Pier, K Avenue, Kure Beach, NC 28449: The Cape Fear Disabled Sportsman Fishing Tournament is open to anyone with any disability to come and join in on a free day of fishing, friends, food, and fun. We love to see new faces as well as old friends. We offer a special welcome to any and all of our honored Disabled Veterans. The CFDST is put on annually by the Got Em On Live Bait fishing club and they really throw a shindig. The tourney is held at the Kure Beach Fishing Pier in Kure Beach, NC. Participants are provided with rods, tackle, bait, refreshments, food, t-shirts and prizes. Call 910.458.1202 or email dawsonfre@yahoo.com for more information.

Fabulous Fantail Film Festival
Friday, May 16, 2008 (8pm)
Battleship North Carolina, # 1 Battleship Drive, Wilmington, NC 28401: Friday evenings in May, enjoy movies on the fantail (back deck) of the ship just like her WWII crew! This year's classic film selection celebrates the “Many Moods of Love.” Tonight's film is Notorious. Tickets are $1.00 and are only available at the door (does not include a tour of the Ship). Fresh popcorn & sodas available for $1.00, too. For information call 910.251.5797 Ext. 2049.

Carolina Piano Trio
Sunday, May 18, 2008 (7pm)
UNCW Cultural Arts Building Recital Hall, 601 S. College Rd., Wilmington, NC 28403: Chamber Music Wilmington's captivating resident ensemble performs the music of John Corigliano, Oscar winning composer of the film score for Red Violin. Call 800.732.3643 or 910.962.3500 for tickets.

Maritime Day Merchant Marine Memorial Wreath Laying Ceremony
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Riverfront Park, Water Street, Wilmington, NC 28401: The Merchant Marine Memorial wreath laying ceremony honors the memory and the service of Merchant Mariners who gave their lives in service to their country. Of the 243,000 Merchant Mariners who served in World War II, more than 9,500 died �" the highest casualty rate of all the U.S. services. The wreath is carefully handed to the crew of the U.S. Coast Guard boat, who proceed to the center of the river and lay it in the water, as buglers play ''Echo Taps'' and the flags of all branches of the service dip in salute. Call 910.343.6491 for details.

The Piano Men: Jim Witter Sings the Songs of Billy Joel and Elton John
Friday, May 23, 2008 (8pm)
Thalian Hall, 310 Chestnut Street, Wilmington, NC 28401: If you can remember where you were when Elvis may have died, this is the concert you'll not want to miss. Canadian recording artist Jim Witter and his band lead an expertly crafted tour of an entire decade, a musical time machine saluting two of the century's most popular contemporary songwriters, Billy Joel and Elton John. Tickets are $28. Call 800.523.2820 or 910.343.3664 for more information.

Fabulous Fantail Film Festival
Friday, May 23, 2008 (8pm)
Battleship North Carolina, # 1 Battleship Drive, Wilmington, NC 28401: Friday evenings in May, enjoy movies on the fantail (back deck) of the ship just like her WWII crew! This year's classic film selection celebrates the “Many Moods of Love.” Tonight's film is African Queen. Tickets are $1.00 and are only available at the door (does not include a tour of the Ship). Fresh popcorn and sodas available for $1.00, too. For information call 910.251.5797 Ext. 2049.

Orange Street Arts Festival 2008
Saturday, May 24, 2008 - Sunday, May 25, 2008 (10am - 5pm)
Downtown Wilmington, Orange Street, Wilmington, NC 28401: The artists will exhibit everything from watercolor to pottery to jewelry for sale. The festival will have continuous entertainment and food and drink available to the public. The event is free but donations are encouraged and accepted. The show will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, with continuous entertainment throughout the day. For more information call 910.251.1788.

43rd Annual Memorial Day Observance
Monday, May 26, 2008 (5pm)
Battleship North Carolina, #1 Battleship Road, Wilmington, NC 28401: Remember those who gave their lives in service and honor veterans at our traditional Memorial Day Observance featuring a military guest speaker, an all-service Color Guard, a 21-gun salute by a Marine Corps Honor Guard, military band, Taps, and a memorial wreath cast onto the waters. FREE. Program held on the Fantail of the Battleship. For more information 910.251.5797 Ext. 2050.

NC Symposium and ''Quilting By The Sea'' Quilt show
Thursday, May 29, 2008 - Sunday, June 01, 2008
UNCW Warwick Center (601 S. College Road): Quilters By The Sea Quilt Guild is hosting NC Sympsoisum, on the campus of UNCW. NC Symposium is an annual event, hosted each year in a different NC city, usually held on a university campus. Symposium attracts about 450 quilters from about 7 states, for three days of classes, lectures and other special events. There will be a quilt show in conjunction with Symposium, with quilt entries from participants in Symposium. The ''Quilting By The Sea'' quilt show will be held in the Warwick Center, along with Symposium.

Surf-Sun-Sand Volleyball & Bocce Ball Tournament
Saturday, May 31, 2008 - Saturday, May 31, 2008 (8am - 6pm)
Wrightsville Beach Park, Bob Sawyer Drive, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480: Wrightsville Beach Parks and Recreation is hosting the Annual Surf-Sun-Sand Volleyball & Bocce Ball Tournament. This six or four-person co-ed volleyball tournament has divisions for skill levels including Novice and Intermediate. Pre-registration is required. Call Wrightsville Beach Parks & Recreation for more information 910.256.7925 or email kryan@towb.org.

23rd Annual Beach Music Festival
Saturday, June 07, 2008
Ocean Front Beach Stage, Harper Ave. and Cape Fear Blvd., Carolina Beach, NC 28428: Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce invites you to grab your shagging shoes and come on down for the 2008 Beach Music Festival held on the Ocean Front Beach Stage near the Boardwalk. Come dance the day away to all the great beach music tunes you remember from summers past. Don't feel like dancing? Then settle down in your beach chair to enjoy watching the dancers and hearing the bands. Call the Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce 910.458.8434 or email visitor@pleasureislandnc.org for more information.

Jazz In The Park
Sunday, June 08, 2008 - Sunday, June 08, 2008 (2pm - 6pm)
Wrightsville Beach Park, Bob Sawyer Drive, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480: CFJAS will hold its 12th annual Jazz In The Park. The music is free and open to the public. Bring your family, a picnic lunch and lawn chairs. Co-sponsored by the Wrightsville Beach Parks and Recreational Deptartment. Contact Donna at 910.392.1200 or WB Parks & Rec 910.256.9880 for more details.

Free Summer Concert
Friday, June 13, 2008 (6pm)
Fort Fisher Military Recreation Area, 118 Riverfront Rd, Kure Beach, NC 28449: Come and listen to a free concert held every year at Fort Fisher Military Recreation Area. Bring your chairs, blankets and kids and enjoy a concert along the Cape Fear River. Call 910.458.8434 for more information.

The 7th Annual Paw Jam
Saturday, June 14, 2008 - Saturday, June 14, 2008 (11am - 9pm)
Battleship North Carolina: The 7th Annual Paw Jam, held at Battleship North Carolina across from the Wilmington Riverfront, offers a variety of fun for those of all ages (and their dogs!)

This fun-filled day will feature live entertainment, pet-related vendors, arts and crafts, beer and wine gardens, a food court and more.

Leashed pets get in free. Pets Are Worth Saving (P.A.W.S.) of North Carolina is a non-profit organization, and all proceeds from this event will be donated to animal rescue non-profit organizations.

For more information, visit their website or send an email to pawjaminfo@yahoo.com.

Battleship Hootenanny
Tuesday, June 17, 2008 (8pm)
Battleship North Carolina, #1 Battleship Road, Wilmington, NC 28401: Join us for the 8th annual Battleship Hootenanny, a concert of folk and pop favorites, on the Fantail under the stars. Auditorium if inclement weather. John Golden and friends head up a fine cast of local musical groups. Tickets are $10 (cash only) at the door (does not include a tour of the Ship). Fresh popcorn and sodas available for $1 each. Proceeds to benefit Friends of the Battleship. For information call 910.251.5797 Ext. 2045.

The Carousel Center Annual Flounder Tournament
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Inlet Watch Yacht Club: Inlet Watch Yacht Club of Carolina Beach and Tex's Tackle of Wilmington present The Carousel Center Annual Flounder Tournament. Prizes will be awarded for heaviest flounder. Cash awards will be given, with 1st place receiving $1,000, 2nd place receiving $500, 3rd place receiving $250, 4th place receiving $100 and 5th place receiving $50.

Registration for the tournament is open until 7:00 p.m. on June 20, 2008. The cost to enter the tournament is $30 per angler.

All proceeds from the tournament will benefit The Carousel Center of Wilmington, which is a non-profit organization that is committed to providing a child-friendly environment to meet the needs of the abused and neglected children in southeastern North Carolina.

For more information, contact Tournament Director Tom Banks at 910-279-5713 or via email at tbanks@mtsservices.com. More information and a registration form is available on the website.

Summer Artillery Program
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Fort Fisher State Historic Site: Start your summer with an artillery demonstration at Fort Fisher! Volunteers and interpreters will be dressed in Civil War costumes during this event. All demonstrations are subject to change. For more information, call Fort Fisher State Historic Site or e-mail fisher@ncmail.net.

Kure Beach Double Sprint Triathlon 2008
Sunday, June 29, 2008 (8am)
Kure Beach: The very first ''Formula 1'' or super sprint style triathlon in the U.S. The Kure Beach Double Sprint is now in it's 12th year. Competitors start out with a 375 meter ocean swim. Upon exiting the water, participants put on their running gear at the ''Beach Transition Area'' and run 1.5 miles to the ''Town Hall Transition Area''. Participants then complete a 10K bike ride on a closed course. With no rest - participants immediately ride the 10 K bike course again finishing at the ''Town Hall Transition Area''. Then it's back on with the running gear for the 1.5 mile run back to the ''Beach Transition Area''. Participants complete the race by once again swimming the 375 meter course. This event benefits Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and Pleasure Island Sea Turlte Project.

The pricing for this race is as follows.
Before Sunday, June 01, 2008: Individual Participant: $50.00
Before Sunday, June 29, 2008: Individual Participant: $60.00
There is a $10.00 fee for each non-USAT registrant.
See the web site for a contact form.

Pleasure Island Independence Day Fireworks
Thursday, July 03, 2008
Carolina Beach, On the beach end of Cape Fear Blvd, Carolina Beach, NC 28428: Come join us to celebrates Independence Day! Fireworks are launches on the beach in front of the fabulous Carolina Beach Boardwalk. Call 910.458.8434 for more information.

12th Annual Battleship Blast
Friday, July 04, 2008 (9am)
Battleship North Carolina, #1 Battleship Road, Wilmington, NC 28401: One of the largest choreographed fireworks displays in the State explodes over the Battleship. View from historic downtown Wilmington. The Battleship closes at 6pm for fireworks. For more information 910.251.5797 Ext. 2048.

4th of July Riverfront Celebration
Friday, July 04, 2008 - Friday, July 04, 2008 (5pm - 9pm)
Downtown Wilmington, Water Street, Wilmington, NC 28401: The City of Wilmington proudly presents the 4th of July Riverfront Celebration featuring the Battleship Blast. From 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm food vendors will be on hand to offer spectators a variety of items from funnel cakes to cheesesteaks and bands will entertain the crowd in Riverfront Park. Fireworks display will take place at 9:05 pm. For more information call 910.341.7855 or 910.251.5797 or visit www.wilmingtonrecreation.com.

4th of July Cruise aboard the Henrietta III
Friday, July 04, 2008 - Friday, July 04, 2008 (6pm - 9pm)
Henrietta III, Water & Dock Streets, Wilmington, NC 28401: Come aboard North Carolina's Largest Riverboat as we celebrate our Independence Day!! Enjoy a southern buffet dinner, entertainment and the best seats in town for the 4th of July Fireworks. Boards 30 minutes prior to cruise. tickets are $52 per person. Pre-paid reservations required. Boarding begins at 6pm. Call 800.676.0162 or 910.343.1611.

Cape Fear 7's Rugby Tournament
Saturday, July 05, 2008 - Sunday, July 06, 2008 (9am)
Ogden Park, 615 Odgen Park Drive, Wilmington, NC 28411: The Cape Fear Rugby Football Club will host the 34th Annual Cape Fear 7's Rugby Tournament. Cape Fear 7's is the oldest and largest 7-a-side weekend rugby tournament in the entire United States of America and attracts over 60+ teams from throughout the United States and from many international locations, as well. Admission is free and is suitable for children. Because of previous years successes, a youth rugby clinic for boys and girls between the ages of 7-14 will be ongoing throughout the weekend. For more information please contact Paul Kasper at 910.264.5277 or CapeFearSevens@aol.com.

Free Summer Concert
Friday, July 18, 2008 (6pm)
Fort Fisher Military Recreation Area, 118 Riverfront Rd, Kure Beach, NC 28449: Come and listen to a free concert held every year at Fort Fisher Military Recreation Area. Bring your chairs, blankets and kids and enjoy a concert along the Cape Fear River. Call 910.458.8434 for more information.

Cape Fear Blues Festival
Friday, July 25, 2008 - Sunday, July 27, 2008
Various Locations: A 3-day celebration of blues music between the beautiful beaches of the Cape Fear Coast and the historic riverfront of downtown Wilmington, North Carolina. Events include a Blues Cruise, workshops, outdoor concert, live club shows, and an all-day blues jam in the park. Call 910.350.8822 or email admin@capefearblues.org.

Wooden Boat Festival
Saturday, July 26, 2008
CFCC Campus; Riverfront, Water Street, Wilmington, NC 28401: Presented by the CFCC Boat Building program, the festival serves as an annual celebration of the tradition and craft of wooden boat building. CFCC's wooden boat festival attracts thousands of visitors every year. This year, the event will feature over 50 wooden boats, including kayaks, skiffs, and boats from the Simmons Sea Skiff Club. Students in CFCC's Boat Building program will exhibit their own work and conduct demonstrations of traditional boat building techniques like bending wood using steam. Build Your Own Boat! If you have ever wanted to build your own boat, now is your chance! For more information contact Ed Verge at 910.362.7151 or email everge@cfcc.edu

Baskets of Summer
Saturday, July 26, 2008 - Saturday, July 26, 2008 (8am - 5pm)
Poplar Grove Plantation, 10200 Hwy 17 N, Wilmington, NC 28411: A one day, fun-filled basketry event for all skill levels. There are teachers from Wilmington and surrounding counties teaching the basket classes. Come meet new friends, share a love of basketry and create a nice project to take home and enjoy. For more information call 910.686.9518 ext. 26.

Free Summer Concert
Friday, August 15, 2008 (6pm)
Fort Fisher Military Recreation Area, 118 Riverfront Rd, Kure Beach, NC 28449: Come and listen to a free concert held every year at Fort Fisher Military Recreation Area. Bring your chairs, blankets and kids and enjoy a concert along the Cape Fear River. Call 910.458.8434 for more information.

12th Annual East Coast Wahine Championships
Saturday, August 16, 2008 - Sunday, August 17, 2008
Crystal Pier, South Lumina Ave., Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480: Surf competitions in shortboard, longboard, pro longboard, advanced shortboard, bodyboard, and novice divisions. Also, a surf clinic will be held. Entries are limited. More information can be accessed via www.eastcoastwahines.com or via email at anne@eastcoastwahines.com or erin@eastcoastwahines.com.

End of Summer Artillery Program
Saturday, September 06, 2008
Fort Fisher State Historic Site, 1610 Fort Fisher Blvd. S, Kure Beach, NC 28449: Come and watch the firing of Fort Fisher's cannons in the last artillery demonstration of the year! Volunteers and interpreters will be dressed in Civil War costumes during this event. All demonstrations are subject to change, please contact the site for details 910.458.5538 or fisher@ncmail.net.

7th Annual Art & Antique Walk
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Downtown Wilmington, Front Street, Wilmington, NC 28401: The Art & Antique Walk will showcase various paintings, photographs, jewelry, sculptures, and antiques from New Hanover, Pender, and Brunswick counties. With over 20 area vendors, this event will offer the best art and antiques from the region in one location. The entire event will be held on Front Street and will be closed to vehicular traffic for the duration of the Walk. Downtown City parking decks will be free for the entire day. Call 910.251.0727 or email artandantiquewalk@hotmail.com for more information.

30th Anuual YMCA Triathlon
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Wrightsville Beach: The biggest race in the NCTS, and the largest from Washington DC to Florida - the Wilmington YMCA Triathlon will close out at 1,300 participants. Call 910.251.9622 ext 224.

Battleship Alive
Saturday, September 27, 2008 - Saturday, September 27, 2008 (8am - 5pm)
Battleship North Carolina, #1 Battleship Road, Wilmington, NC 28401: Watch and interact with World War II living history interpreters as they bring the Ship to life by enacting daily duties and drills. An excellent field trip opportunity for families and groups! Included in regular admission. For information call 910.251.5797 Ext. 2046.

Riverfest 2008
Friday, October 03, 2008 - Sunday, October 05, 2008
Downtown Wilmington, Riverside, Water Street, Wilmington, NC 28401: When downtown Wilmington's streets host a family fun festival that winds its way along the Cape Fear River. Continuous live entertainment is featured on two outdoor stages during this festival that celebrates the area's rich heritage with music, arts and crafts, exhibits, dance performances, contests, children's activities, food, river events, friendly competitions, fireworks and more. For more information call 910.452.6862.

Cape Fear Scarecrow Festival
Saturday, October 04, 2008 - Monday, November 10, 2008
Downtown Wilmington: Downtown Wilmington businesses will show off their creativity during this competitive display of scarecrows. Visitors are invited to check out dozens of creative scarecrows on display at Downtown shops, restaurants, and businesses, where they can cast their votes for Audience Favorite. Maps are available to show the location of the various entries at downtown Visitor Centers and at participating businesses. Call 910.251.0727 or email chris@dbawilmington.com for details.

Fabulous Fantail Family Film Favorite: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs
Friday, October 10, 2008 (7pm)
Battleship North Carolina, #1 Battleship Road, Wilmington, NC 28401: Enjoy a family favorite on the fantail of the Ship, just like her crew. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, 1937 �" Based on a classic fairy tale, Walt Disney's ground breaking animated feature is ranked as one of the top 100 films. Hit songs include “Heigh Ho,” “Whistle While You Work,” and “Some Day My Prince Will Come.” Tickets are $1.00 and are available at the door only (does not include a tour of the Ship). Fresh popcorn & sodas are $1.00. For information call 910.251.5797 Ext. 2049.

Bark in the Park
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Wrightsville Beach Park, Bob Sawyer Drive, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480: Mighty mutts and playful purebreds will leap to the sky to catch flying discs at the 2008 Skyhoundz Hyperflight Canine Disc Championships. The event begins at 11am. No experience necessary, admission free to spectators and competitors. Please come by the Wrightsville Beach Recreation Office to pre-register. For more information call 910.256.7925 or email kryan@towb.org.

Seafood, Blues & Jazz Festival, 15th Annual
Saturday, October 11, 2008 - Sunday, October 12, 2008 (11am - 10pm)
Fort Fisher Military Recreation Area, 118 Riverfront Rd, Kure Beach, NC 28449: Two day event brimming with live music, arts and crafts, delicious seafood, fine arts gallery and much, much more. 11am-10pm Sat, 11am-6pm Sun. Call 910.458.8434 for more information.

Ghost Ship
Friday, October 24, 2008 - Saturday, October 25, 2008 (6pm)
Battleship North Carolina (1 Battleship Road): You've seen the Battleship on paranormal programs, now come see for yourself! Battleship staff and volunteers will lead you through the bowels of the ship to hear true Battleship tales. “Haunted North Carolina's” members reveal ghostly details and provide you with a unique opportunity to learn how ghost hunters track spirits. The charge is $10 per person, cash at the door.

Beach-2-Battleship Triathlon
Saturday, November 01, 2008
Wrightsville Beach/Wilmington, Banks Channel to Battleship NC, Wilmington, NC 28401: Full and 1.2 Iron Distance Triathlon in Wrightsville Beach and Wilmington NC. A full Iron Distance and half iron distance race will take place simultaneously. Both events will fall under the name Beach2Battleship, a name that derives directly from the unique course the triathletes will take, as well as, the world class tourist experience and amenities available to competitors, their families and friends. Our triathletes will start from Wrightsville Beach, NC for a point to point swim in the channel so they will not have to deal with the unpredictability of an ocean swim. Beach2Battleship finishes at the USS North Carolina Battleship Memorial. For more information visit the web site.

St. Stan's Polish Festival
Saturday, November 01, 2008 - Saturday, November 01, 2008 (11am - 5pm)
St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, 4849 Castle Hayne Road, Castle Hayne, NC 28429: There will be traditional Polish cuisine, entertainment, children's games, raffles, live & silent auctions, craft sale, dancing, music and great fun! Free! Call for more information.

10th Annual Battleship Half Marathon & 5K
Sunday, November 09, 2008 (8am)
Battleship North Carolina, #1 Battleship Road, Wilmington, NC 28401: This challenging USATF-certified race starts and finishes at the Battleship, encompassing three bridges and Greenfield Lake. This race is presented by Ed Fore with the support of over 100 volunteers. Funds benefit the Battleship and the Wilmington Family YMCA. To sign up contact the YMCA at 910-251-9622 Ext. 224, or edfore@bellsouth.net.

Season of Celebration
Friday, November 21, 2008 - Saturday, December 20, 2008
Downtown Wilmington: Series of Christmas events Downtown Wilmington has so much to offer this holiday season! Kick off your Christmas holiday season by attending the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony or any of the other planned events that will be happening each weekend leading up to Christmas. Call 910.251.0727 or email chris@dbawilmington.com for more details.

Island of Lights - Light Up The Lake
Friday, November 28, 2008
Carolina Beach Lake Park, Lake Park Blvd (Hwy 421), Carolina Beach, NC 28428: The light up ceremony officially begins the month long Island of Lights Festival. Entertainment is provided by local Boy Scouts and Carolina Beach Elementary School Chorus. Walk one mile around the lake to view lighted displays, caroling and live nativity provided by community groups. Santa to visit celebration. Call 910.458.9023

NC Holiday Flotilla, 25th Annual
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Wrightsville Beach, 322 Causeway Drive, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480: A Southeast Tourism Society Top 20 Event for 2007. A spectacular lighted boat parade. A tradition at Wrightsville Beach for locals, boat lovers, and tourists. 30-50 boats ranging from yachts to personal watercrafts decorated for the holiday display. Over 70+ vendors and children's activities at Festival in the Park. For more information visit our web site. Call 910.256.2120.

Holiday Lighting of the Battleship
Friday, December 05, 2008 - Tuesday, January 06, 2009
Battleship North Carolina, #1 Battleship Road, Wilmington, NC 28401: Part of historic downtown Wilmington's annual holiday light celebration, the Battleship will be dressed in lights strung from the bow up to the masts and down to the stern. Enjoy nightly from dusk to 11:00pm. Free viewing from downtown Wilmington. For information call 910.251.5797.

Island of Lights Parade
Friday, December 05, 2008
Carolina Beach, Lake Park Blvd (Hwy 421), Carolina Beach, NC 28428: The Christmas parade furnishes exceptional night time electric displays, featuring floats, bands, queens, clowns, horses, Santa Claus and much more. The hour and a half parade brings festive fun and entertainment to all. Bring your chairs, blankets and snacks to enjoy the fun time. Call 910.458.9023.

Island of Lights Holiday Flotilla
Saturday, December 06, 2008
Carolina Beach Boat Basin, Intracoastal Waterway, Carolina Beach, NC 28428: Fishing boats and pleasure crafts electrically decorated with thousands of lights present a spectacular display on the Intracoastal Waterway. The parade of boats will cruise from Snows Cut to Carolina Beach Boat Basin and back. A unique coastal tradition sure to please the hearts of all. Cash prizes are awarded. View from one of the Winner Boats or anywhere along the waterway. Free to the public. Parking available in the local parking lots. For more information call 910.458.9023.

Pearl Harbor Remembrance Weekend
Saturday, December 06, 2008 - Sunday, December 07, 2008
Battleship North Carolina, #1 Battleship Road, Wilmington, NC 28401: Commemorative weekend surrounding the remembrance of the bombing of Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, the morning of Sunday, December 7, 1941, the event that brought America into World War II. Activities include Battleship Alive interpreters aboard ship and Azalea Coast Radio Club will provide HAM radio operators the opportunity to contact the ship. For more information call 910.251.5797.

Island of Lights Tour of Homes
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Pleasure Island, Carolina & Kure Beach, Carolina Beach, NC 28428: Visit area homes to enjoy holiday decorations and Southern hospitality at it's best as the owners welcome you into the privacy of their homes for a self-guided tour. (includes map) Tickets available at Linda's Fashions in Carolina Beach. Call 910.458.9023 for more information.

Island of Lights New Year's Eve Countdown Party/Fireworks
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Kure Beach: The Island of Lights countdown features the lowering of a giant lighted beach ball. A street dance featuring live music precedes a spectacular fireworks display to welcome in the New Year. Refreshments are available at this entertainment event for all ages. Free. For more information call 910.458.9023 or visit www.islandoflights.org.