Tag Archives: Wilmington

Where to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Wilmington

Ready for Cinco de Mayo?

Cinco de Mayo arrives tomorrow and we’re ready to celebrate! While many celebrate with Mexican cuisine and a margarita (or two) the holiday really commemorates the Mexican army’s 1862 victory over France at the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War. If you’re looking for a good bite to celebrate, see our favorite Mexican spots in the Wilmington area below!

Cinco de Mayo in Wilmington: Our Favorite Mexican & Mexican Inspired Bites

 

1. Taqueria Los Portales

If you’re looking for simple, authentic tacos, most Wilmington residents will point you in the direction of Taqueria Los Portales. Don’t miss the tacos al pastor.

1207 S Kerr Ave, Wilmington, NC 28403. Find them on Facebook here.

2. Live. Eat. Surf. Restaurants

Live Eat Surf has locations throughout the Port City area including K38, Las Olas, and Tower 7. No matter how far you are from the beach, Live Eat Surf locations will make you feel like you’ve just walked from the ocean to a to a beachside hangout. Each restaurant offers unique Mexican and Tex-Mex inspired dishes with some Baja flair, along with great margaritas.

Various locations in the Port City area. Check out their website here.

3. Flaming Amy’s

Flaming Amy’s is a Wilmington classic, and for good reason. Customers can choose from a variety of specialty burritos, soft tacos, or nachos, or build their own with a wide range of proteins and ‘goodies’. You certainly won’t leave hungry. There’s also great folks behind this business: the owner, Jay Muxworthy, is being celebrated as a local hero after he recently risked his life while saving a woman from a burning car.

Locations in Wilmington and Carolina Beach. Check out their website here.

4. Wilmington Taco Factory

If you’re looking for delicious quesadillas and stellar service, Wilmington Taco Factory is the place to go to. The staff is helpful and friendly, and the restaurant serves sandwiches for those in your party who are more in the mood for American fare. (If you are, try the meatloaf sandwich).

1051 S College Rd, Wilmington, NC 28403. Find them on Facebook here.

5. El Arriero Taqueria

This Taqueria is easy to miss, tucked off of Market Street and at the end of a shopping center, but it’s well worth the hunt. Enjoy their taco bar, variety of salsas, and kick-butt micheladas.

6932 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28411. Find them on Facebook here.

6. La Guera

Another hidden gem in Wilmington, La Guera is also tucked away in a strip mall, but deserve high praise for their authentic Mexican dishes. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, but we recommend the tamales and the carne asada torta.

6620 Gordon Rd, Wilmington, NC 28411. Find them on Facebook here.

7. Eatery 17

Don’t let the fact that there are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options fool you, Eatery 17 offers burritos and tacos with serious flavor. The cafe also serves south pacific fare (try the pulled pork!) in addition to its southwestern offerings.

2547 S 17th St, Wilmington, NC 28401. Check out their website here.

8. Taco Point

Taco Point literally has the BEST carnitas tacos outside of SoCal. And they make their corn tortillas by hand in the restaurant. Enough said.

13732 NC-210 #100, Rocky Point, NC 28457. Find them on Facebook here.

9. Mama Rosa’s Bakery

This bakery has awesome Mexican pastries. Some of our favorites are the Marranitos (a molasses, pig shaped cookie) and the apple empanadas. And of course, the tres leches cake! They have a little tienda in there, too.

7316 Market St #6, Wilmington, NC 28411. Find them on Facebook here.

 

Any great spots we missed? Share with us on Facebook or Twitter!

Ready to Buy? We Offer Special Buyer Services for Tenants!

Renting but ready to buy? The agents at Dianne Perry & Company can help!

We can help you find your new home.

Did you know that your property managers are also real estate agents? Dianne, Jill, and Amanda are licensed agents who have several years of experience working with sellers and buyers in the Wilmington area. If you’re ready to transition from renting to owning, our agents can help with a smooth transition. We also guarantee personalized service to our tenants who buy a home with us!

If you have put serious consideration into buying a home, you should speak with a realtor about real estate options! If you have been watching your finances, if you are committed to your neighborhood, and if you are looking for a place to truly call your own, buying a home is a great option.

 

If you are currently renting but looking to buy a home within the next year, we can assist with this transition!

At Dianne Perry & Company, we have over 30 years of experience as agents in the Wilmington area and can help you find the perfect home. Here’s what you can expect when you work with our agents:

  • Pre-qualification in 15 minutes.
  • If you are renting from us and buying with us, we can work with you to help coordinate your dates to help avoid overlapping rent and mortgage payments.
  • We specialize in first-time home buyers! We will walk you through every step of the home buying process and guarantee personalized service. If you’re a first time home buyer, learn more about the process here.
  • As an extra incentive, we offer a $500.00 Lowe’s gift card to current tenants who buy with us!

 

Read more about Dianne, Jill, and Amanda here and give us a call at 910-322-0736 to find out how we can help you! Whether you are considering buying in the future, or ready to be a homeowner now, we can help you take the first steps!

A Guide to the Unique & Unusual in Wilmington

A Guide to the Unique & Unusual in Wilmington

It may be April Fool’s Day, but these spots in Wilmington are no joke. Since today is a day of jokes and all things unbelievable, we asked our staff to tell us about their most unique or unusual finds in Wilmington. Check out the list below! And, in the spirit of fun, we’ve also included the best reviews we could find along with some personal tips.

Museums & Activities

Museum of the Bizarre

This is perhaps the best $3.00 you can spend in Wilmington. While the museum is small, there’s plenty to see and it is a perfect place to stop when you’re downtown.

201 S Water Street Wilmington, NC 28401
910-399-2641  Website

Most promising review: “It’s been almost 48 hours since my visit to the Museum of Nightmares, and I’m still processing what an amazing experience it was!”

More information: Get a head start on North Carolina ghost stories and urban legends here.

Cape Fear Serpentarium

Yes, this a whole museum of reptiles, and a vast one at that.

20 Orange St, Wilmington, NC 28401
(910) 762-1669  Website

Most promising review: “You will never in your life find another collection of reptiles as impressive.”
More information: The museum is cash only. If reptiles give you the heebie-jeebies, check out this guide to managing your fear.

Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden

No, they can’t really eat you, but this garden does feature a wide variety of carnivorous plants.

2025 Independence Blvd Wilmington, NC, 28403
(910) 341-7852

Most promising review: “The experience was really cool! It was free, and self-led. I highly recommend checking this place out. Please remember not to pick any of the carnivorous plants- it’s a felony in NC! Imagine having to explain that story to your cell mate if you get caught.”
More information: Avoid being eaten by becoming familiar with local carnivorous plants here.

North Carolina Ukulele Academy

Forget guitar, you’re in a coastal town after all. If you’re in the market for a new ukulele, or if you’re looking to learn how to play, North Carolina Ukulele Academy has you covered.

203 Racine Dr #205, Wilmington, NC 28403
(910) 538-3419   Website

Most promising review: “One of my favorite places to go to! Kent is great and a wonderful teacher. I love coming here to check out their amazing collection of ukuleles and enjoying the relaxing atmosphere. This place will lower your blood pressure, guaranteed.”
More information: Check out the inside of the Academy here. Not familiar with the ukulele sound? Start here.

Athletic & Outdoor Endeavors

Jazzercise

Yes, REALLY. There is a Jazzercise studio off of Oleander Drive where you can break out your best jazz hands (I assume).

5424 Oleander Dr #8, Wilmington, NC 28403
(703) 403-6051  Website

Most promising review: “This is the friendliest workout in town and better than therapy!”
More information: See this beginner’s guide. Alternatively, you could also try Prancercise.

Cape Fear Circus Arts

If you ever wanted to run away with the circus when you were little, you can test your performance chops with a trapeze or aerial skills class (and so much more).

The group offers a diverse array of classes at various Wilmington and Carolina Beach studios, see class descriptions and locations on their website.

704-502-2539  Website  Class Schedule

Most promising review: “The people, the classes, EVERYTHING! I was looking for a fun way to get active again and I’ve found it! Take a class, any of them, one time and you will be addicted!”
More information: Check out their impressive Instagram posts.

Cape Fear Segway

You’ve likely seen Wilmington by foot and by car. But have you seen it by segway? Didn’t think so.

106 North Water St Wilmington, NC 28401
(910) 251-2572  Website

Most promising review: “When I first arrived in Wilmington,  I wasn’t too impressed.  But after the Segway tour,  I was very very impressed.”

More information: They also offer demo rides for $25, which provides basic training and a short cruise through part of the riverwalk. Before you go, make sure you know the greatest segway reference in pop culture*.

*Debatable.

 

New Ways to Unwind

Drift & Dream – Offering Floating

I first heard about floating or sometimes called “Floatation Therapy” when looking up things to do after running a half-marathon with my dad in Portland, OR. It was something I was not surprised to find in Portland, but it was definitely an unexpected find in Wilmington. Basically, you get into a tub of water saturated with Epsom salt that allows you to float. You are also in a sound proof room with no lights, which is supposed to provide a meditative experience.

108 N Kerr Ave, Wilmington, NC 28405
(910) 790-0029 Website

Most promising review: “Touched by an angel is an understatement… I found this little jewel when I was looking to recover after a 50k run. I can’t wait to try each treatment offered there.”
More information: Buzzfeed recently had people try floating for the first time. This informational video for first-time floaters (featuring some great mustaches, too).

 

Watering Holes & Good Bites

The Browncoat Pub & Theater

Enjoy live performances or sing your heart out with regular karaoke nights at this downtown bar and entertainment venue.

111 Grace St, Wilmington, NC 28401
(910) 341-0001 Facebook

Most promising review: “Karaoke every night of the week is insane.”
More information: This guide may help you sing karaoke with more confidence. This list provides the best songs for drunken karaoke. Also of note, the bathroom door at Browncoat Pub is a Tardis.

Saigon Market

One of the most exciting finds we’ve made in Wilmington is Saigon Market. Not only do they offer Asian groceries, they also have a great fresh produce section!

4507 Franklin Ave, Wilmington, NC 28403
(910) 793-9911  Website

Most promising review: “I can find Indian and Vietnamese specialty items that I can’t find anywhere else in Wilmington. The staff is very nice and friendly. Love the Vietnamese coffee and Café Du Monde, New Orleans coffee in the orange can makes the best (can’t get it anywhere else here).”
More information: Check out this roundup of easy Asian meals you can make at home.

 

Any unusual, unique, or just plain fun spots that we missed? Share with us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram with the hashtag #DiannePerryCo!

National Clams on The Half Shell Day

It’s National Clams on the Half Shell Day and with random national days gaining popularity over the last few years, we’re not surprised this exists. Although we did have an office debate over clams, particularly raw clams. Some of us appreciate them, others will only enjoy them cooked. However, we are all in agreement that Wilmington has some great spots for seafood, raw and cooked alike. Check out some of our favorite spots to enjoy a fresh catch below!

national clams on the halfshell day (1)

1. Shuckin’ Shack

When you need a bucket or basket of seafood, Shuckin Shack is the place to go to. They offer a variety of steamed and raw plates, along with sandwiches and traditional seafood fare.

Various locations in the Port City area. Find the closest shack here.
Check out their website here.

2. Dock Street Oyster Bar

Dock Street may be closer to the river, but the restaurant provides a beachy ambiance that compliments their raw bar and steamed offerings. It’s a great little place to stop after a day of shopping downtown.

12 Dock St, Wilmington, NC 28401
(910) 762-2827   Website

3. Fish Bites Sea Food

Fish Bites is a casual yet cute restaurant in Carolina Beach, cozied up against a retail fish market (yes, there’s a lobster tank). Their menu is a seafood lover’s dream with its vast offerings from raw bar classics to fresh entrees and pasta dishes.

6132-11 Carolina Beach Rd, Wilmington, NC 28412
(910) 791-1117  Website

4. Cape Fear Seafood Company

Cape Fear Seafood Company was one of the first seafood places recommended to us and it is easy to see why. With a great atmosphere (perfect for date nights!), attentive staff, and great dishes and cocktails, Cape Fear Seafood Company is always a great choice.

5226 S College Rd #5, Wilmington, NC 28412
(910) 799-7077    Website

5. Catch

Talk to any Wilmington local and they’ll likely hold Catch in high regards. With fun takes on the classics and dishes as delicious as they are colorful, Catch is a spot that never gets old. You can keep an eye out for Catch the food truck, or find their restaurant on Market Street with a tongue in cheek sign letting you know that, “Yes you are at the right place.”

6623 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28405
(910) 799-3847   Website

6. Surf House

Look no further than Surf House for sustainable seafood and farm-to-table fare served in a modern and fun location. Their dishes and cocktails are just as delicious as they are visually stunning.

604 N Lake Park Blvd, Carolina Beach, NC 28428
(910) 707-0422   Website

7. Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar

What’s better than enjoying dinner with an ocean view? Not much, if you ask us. And at Ocean Grill, their seafood dishes and cocktails will impress you just as much as the view does. (Pass me a Mai Tai).

1211 South Lake Park Boulevard Carolina Beach, NC 28428
910-458-2000  Website

 

Did we miss your favorite seafood spot? Share with us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram with the hashtag #DiannePerryCo!

Wilmington for Pet Owners

Wilmington for Pet Owners

Wilmington, North Carolina is a pet’s paradise. We have great adoption groups, amazing pet services, and of course, great beaches and outdoor spaces! All of our staff members are loving owners to a furry friend, so we’ve rounded up our favorite places and pet resources below!

Pet Stores

Unleashed

Unleashed is a great local store with knowledgeable staff and a good selection of leashes, collars, and toys! The store also hosts adoption events fairly regularly!
Visit their website here.

Pet Supermarket

This pet store has great reward options for members, like Buy 10, Get 1 Free on dog food! While the store is smaller, there is a great selection of toys and treats. They also regularly host adoption events on the weekends.
Visit their website here.

Aunt Kerry’s Pet Stop

Doggie by Nature in the Cotton Exchange is a cute pet boutique with treats, toys, and home goods for dog aficionados.
Visit their Facebook page here.

Pet Day Care Centers

Pet’s Pal Inn

The Pet Pal Inn was so accommodating when I needed to find a doggy daycare at the last minute. They have a “small dog” and “big dog” room which is great for owners who are unsure about how well their pup will play with others. Dogs are taken out five times a day and you can also add on walks and special treats. The staff is fantastic and my furbaby had a great time!
Visit their website here.

Paw Beach Pet Resort

This is truly a fun resort for pets! Paw Beach Pet Resort offers day care, overnight stays (complete with room service!), and grooming services for your furry friends. They also have webcams so you can check in on your pet throughout the day!
Visit their website here.

Pet Grooming Services & Spas

Head to Tail Bath and Boarding

This salon offers bath, trim, and nail services for small and big dogs alike in a cute and intimate space!
Visit their Facebook page here.

Peachy Keen Pet Resort and Spa

This spa comes recommended to us for being timely and very loving to each furry client! There are locations in Wilmington and Leland!
Visit their website here.

Dog Parks & Great Trails

Empie Dog Park

We’ve been to several dog parks in the area but like the one at Empie Park best, there seems to be more shady trees, the water spouts are on a concrete pad and they have a nice gazebo with benches for owners.
View more information here.

Hugh McRae Park

While I haven’t been to the dog park here, we enjoy taking our dog for walks here as it is scenic and spacious!
View more information here.

Cross-City Trail of Wilmington

The Gary Shell Cross-City Trail is great for a quick or long walk and offers diverse views of Wilmington.
View a map and more information here.

Abbey Nature Preserve at Poplar Grove

Just next to the Poplar Grove Plantation is their Nature Walk, an easy loop trail that includes a small lake.
Visit their website here.

Dog-Friendly Beaches: In Season

Topsail Beach

One end of Topsail Beach does leash free for dogs. On Topsail Beach, dogs must be on a leash 20 ft or less from May 15th through September 30th. At other times the dog must be under voice command of a responsible person, but does not have to be on a leash.
View more information here.

Oak Island Beach

Dogs are allowed on the Oak Island Beaches but must be leashed at all times.
For more information, view the beach rules and regulations.

Dog-Friendly Beaches: Off Season

Wrightsville Beach

Dog are not allowed on the beach strand from April 1 to September 30. However, From October 1 to March 30, dogs are allowed on the beach with a leash. For more information, visit the town website here.

Carolina Beach

All dogs are required to be on a leash at all times. Dogs are allowed on the beach town limits from October 1st to March 31st.
For more information, view the beach regulations.

Pet-Friendly Restaurants & Bars

Satellite Bar & Lounge

This downtown watering hole is pet-friendly and seems to always have great live music and events!
Visit their website here.

Goat & Compass

This pub in the Brooklyn Arts Distric is dog friendly with a fun atmosphere and great music.
Visit their website here.

Blue Surf Cafe

This bright cafe serves up delicious and fresh food and has a great outdoor area where pups are allowed!
Visit their website here.

Java Dog

There is Java Dog on Front Street, for caffeine addicts who need to have their furry companions with them!
Visit their Facebook page here.

Veterinarians

Hanover Regional Animal Hospital

Our whole office uses this veterinarian! Dr. Manolukas is always attentive to our pets. The entire staff is helpful and friendly!
Visit their website here.

Adoption Groups

Looking for a companion? There are several great adoption groups in Wilmington and the surrounding areas.

New Hanover Animal Services Unit

Visit their website here.

Adopt an Angel

Visit their website here.

Animal Avengers

Visit their website here.

Did we miss any of your favorite places? Share them with us in the comments or on Facebook or Twitter!

Wilmington Weekend: December 11th – 13th

Wilmington Weekend Guide

The holiday spirit is in full swing here in Wilmington and there are several fun events where you can enjoy the cheer! And if you’re worn out from too much cocoa and carols, there are great non-holiday events as well to give you a break! Check out our Wilmington Weekend Guide below and have a fantastic weekend!

The Twelve Tastes of Christmas

Stop by the Brooklyn Arts Center for the 3rd annual 12 Tastes a Christmas, a fundraiser for Cape Fear Literacy Council, with season eats and cocktails. Participants include standout local restaurants and bars including PinPoint, Flytrap Brewing, Palate and more.

Friday, December 11th at 7pm.
Admission is $30.00.
For tickets and more information visit the event page.

Brooklyn Arts Center
516 North 4th Street
Wilmington , NC 28401

Holly Jolly Holiday Stroll

Enjoy holiday sights and activities in downtown Wilmington this Saturday and Sunday. The Stroll includes street musicians, choral groups, a window decorating contest at downtown businesses and decorations at the Port City Marina and Bennett Brothers Marinas.

Friday, December 11th from 4pm – 8pm; Saturday, December 12th from 11am – 8pm.
Admission is free, stroll is self guided.
For details and schedules, visit the Wilmington Downtown website.

Various Venues in Downtown Wilmington.

Jingle Bell 5K Run

Jingle all the way through this 5k, taking place around the Wrightsville Beach loop! Participants are encouraged to dress in holiday apparel and proceeds benefit the Wrightsville Beach Museum of History.

Saturday, December 12th, at 9am.
Admission is $15.00 to $30.00.
For more information and to register, visit the event page.

Wrightsville Beach Museum of History on The Loop
303 West Salisbury Street
Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480

Island of Lights Tour of Homes

There’s nothing we love more than a good homes tour! (We can’t help it, we’re in real estate). The Island of Lights Tour in Carolina Beach and Kure Beach is a self guided tour of some of the area’s homes, complete with elegant holiday decor.

Saturday, December 12th, from 4pm to 9pm.
Tickets are available at touche’ at 201 N. Lake Park Blvd.
For more information, visit the event page.

Carolina Beach
Atlanta Avenue and South Lake Park Blvd
Carolina Beach, NC 28428

Santa by the Sea

The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher never dissapoints with holiday events and this Saturday adults and children can enjoy decked out halls, holiday crafts and games, and of course, a special visit from Santa!

Saturday December 12th, at 5pm.
Admission is $15.00 to $18.00.
For more information, visit the aquarium website.

NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher
900 Loggerhead Road
Kure Beach, NC 28449

Christmas Flotilla at Southport Waterfront

In case you can’t get enough of flotillas, stop by SOuthport along the Southport Marina to Kingsley Park and enjoy decked out boats. Boats will be judged by the students from Southport Elementary for originality and creativity.

Saturday, December 12th, at 7pm.
Admission is free.
For more information, visit the event page.

Southport Waterfront
Yacht Basin Drive
Southport, NC 28461

North Carolina Symphony Holiday Pops

The North Carolina Symphony Concert is coming to the Cape Fear Community College Humanities & Fine Arts Center in downtown Wilmington and will be playing fun holiday selections from recent movies such as Frozen, along with holiday classics.

Saturday, December 12th, at 3:30pm and 7pm.
Admission is $15.00 to $71.00.
For tickets and more information, visit the event page.

CFCC Humanities & Fine Arts Center
701 North Third Street
Wilmington, NC 28401

27th Annual Santa Cruise

The 27th Annual Santa Cruise is this Saturday aboard the Henrietta III! Enjoy this charity cruise for the Salvation army by providing 6 non-perishable items for admission. The cruise runs for an hour and a half and picks up Santa on the way to the North Pole!

Saturday, December 12th, at 9:30am and 12:30pm.
Admission is free with 6 non-perishable items per person.
For more information, visit the Cape Fear Riverboats website.

Cape Fear Riverboats
101 South Water Street
Wilmington, NC 28401

A Charlie Brown Christmas

A Charlie Brown Christmas comes to life at the CFCC Humanities and Fine Arts Center!

Saturday, December 12th, and Sunday, December 13th, at 3pm and 5pm.
Admission is $8.00. Bring a canned good for a discounted ticket.
For more information, visit the CFCC website.

CFCC Humanities & Fine Arts Center
701 North Third Street
Wilmington, NC 28401

A Courtly Holiday Tea with The Beverly Biggs Baroque Trio

Chamber Music Wilmington presents a live performance and German tea ceremony on Sunday evening at the Graystone Inn.

Sunday, December 13th, at 4pm.
Admission is $50.00 to $65.00.
For tickets and more information, visit Chamber Music Wilmington’s website.

Graystone Inn
100 South 3rd Street
Wilmington, NC 28401

6924 Retriever Lane

Listing Feature: 6924 Retriever Lane

6924 Retriever Lane

$165,000

6924 Retriever Lane

6924 Retriever Lane Wilmington, NC 28411

In The Quail Woods Neighborhood

$165,000

3 BR/2 BA 1201 sq. ft. MLS: 522171

Open Floor Plan – Spacious Master – Large Yard and Deck

 

What we love about it:  Huge yard and deck that are perfect for entertaining and hosting family, spacious bedrooms, and a double garage!

Don’t miss this terrific house! This home features a large living area flowing into the kitchen and dining area which features granite counters and a tiled backsplash. Wheelchair accessible hallway bathroom with a walk in shower. Huge master bedroom, extra large deck, fenced backyard and a double garage. Very pretty street appeal and in great condition. Located in an USDA area and a must see for this price range!

This is a great family home at an amazing price point! And in a USDA area!

Ready to make it your home? Give us a call today at 910-332-0736!

Your Complete Guide to Holiday Events in Wilmington NC

Your Complete Guide to Holiday Events in Wilmington NC

The holiday season is upon us and we’re looking forward to a month of cheer! Below is your complete  guide to holiday events in Wilmington NC!

bread & lights gingerbread & lantern festival

Cameron Art Museum in Wilmington, NC, presents bread & lights gingerbread & lantern festival featuring a display of gingerbread creations by all ages as well as artist-made lanterns.

Monday through Sunday, running until Sunday, December 6th. Mondays – Sundays, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 10:00 am – 9:00 pm.
Admission is $6 to $12.
For more information visit the Cameron Art Museum website.

The Christmas Train & Light Spectacular

Enjoy a fantastic display of lights and toy trains and enjoy an appearance from Santa each night!

Fridays and Saturdays through December 26th, 6PM to 8PM.
Admission is $5.00 per person.
For more information, visit the Wilmington Railroad Museum website.

Wilmington Railroad Museum
505 Nutt Street
Wilmington, NC 28401

Greenfield Tree Lighting (& Movie Night featuring Elf!)

Watch the tree light up, participate in an elf costume contest and catch a live screening of Elf at the Greenfield Lake Amphitheater. Santa will be visiting after the lighting ceremony and will have gifts for the first 500 children! Concessions will also be available for purchase during the film.

Thursday, December 3rd at 6:00 PM.
Admission is free.
For more information, visit the event page on Facebook.

Greenfield Lake Amphitheater
1941 Amphitheater Drive
Wilmington, NC 28401

Enchanted Airlie

Airlie Gardens in Wilmington, NC, presents Enchanted Airlie,  where visitors can take a self-guided tour through the gardens that are featuring festive lights and holiday displays. Santa Claus will be making an appearance and guests can also enjoy food and beverages from local vendors.

December 4th-6th, 10th-13th, 16th-22nd. Viewing times are 5pm-7pm.
Various ticket options are available. Tickets must be purchased in advance.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Airlie Gardens website.

Airlie Gardens
300 Airlie Road
Wilmington, NC 28403

Island of Lights Christmas Parade

Enjoy festive floats and gain some holiday cheer from the annual Island of Lights parade in Carolina Beach. The parade runs from Atlanta Avenue up Lake Park Boulevard to the Federal Point Plaza.

Friday, December 4, 2015  at 7:30 PM.
For more information, visit the Pleasure Island website.

Carolina Beach
Atlanta Avenue and South Lake Park Blvd
Carolina Beach, NC 28428

Island of Lights Christmas Flotilla

Boats and lights! Get into the Christmas spirit by the water with wonderfully lit boats. The boats cruise from Snow’s Cut to the Carolina Beach Boat Basin and back.

Saturday, December 5th, at 6PM.
For more information, visit the Pleasure Island website.

Carolina Beach Yacht Basin and Marina
216 Canal Drive
Carolina Beach, NC 28428

Christmas by the Sea

Celebrate the holiday season by the sea on the Carolina Beach boardwalk. Enjoy hot chocolate at the Welcome Center, a fire pit with story telling, caroling, holiday themed movies at the Gazebo, puppet shows, and arts & crafts.

Saturday, December 5th, 12th, and 19th, from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM.
Admission is free.
For more information, visit the event page.

Carolina Beach Boardwalk
Cape Fear Blvd
Carolina Beach, NC 28428

13th Annual Holiday Parade

Enjoy the 13th Annual Holiday Parade in downtown Wilmington filled with floats and fun! The parade begins at North Front and Walnut Streets and moves south on Front Street, ending at Church Street. View the parade route here.

Sunday, December 6th at 4:55PM.
Admission is free.
For more information, visit the event website.

North Front Street and Walnut
Wilmington, NC 28401

5th Annual Chanukkah Menorah Lighting

Oak Island’s 5th Annual Chanukkah Menorah Lighting at Middleton Park (next to Town Hall) features Rabbi Paul from the Temple of Israel and music.

Sunday, December 6, 2015, at 4PM.
Admission is free.

Middleton Park
4700 East Oak Island Drive
Oak Island, NC 28465

Pet Photo Night with Santa

Let fluffy and spot share their wishlist with Santa and get a great photo op.

Sunday, December 6th from 6PM to 8PM.
For more information, visit the Independence Mall website.

Independence Mall
3500 Oleander Drive
Wilmington, NC 28403

A Christmas Stroll Through the Past

Join the Burgwin-Wright House, Bellamy Mansion Museum and St. James Episcopal Church as they stroll through the past with period decorations, costumed interpreters, entertainment and refreshments! Enjoy a trolley ride or a candlelit stroll through Downtown Wilmington as you go from one location to another!

Saturday, December 12th, 4PM to 7PM.
Admission is $20 for adults. Children 15 and under are free.
For more information, visit the event website.

503 Market Street
Wilmington NC 28401

Wilmington Ballet Company Presents: The Nutcracker

Wilmington Ballet Company presents The Nutcracker  at the Cape Fear Community College Humanities & Fine Arts Center in downtown Wilmington, NC. The event features Master of Ceremonies WWAY news anchor Daniel Seamans and stars Keaton Thomas, a Marine Corps Prior Active Duty Captain, as the beloved Nutcracker. Robin Dale Robertson portrays the mysterious Uncle Drosselmeyer while the role of Clara is danced by Sydney Jones, a 10th grader at Laney High School and student at the Wilmington School of Ballet. Professional guest dancers include Stacey Slichter of North Atlanta Dance Theater as Sugar Plum Fairy and Adam Schiffer of Carolina Ballet as the Cavalier.

Saturday, December 19 & Sunday, December 20 at 3pm.
Admission is $35 per person.
For tickets and more information, visit the Cape Fear Community College website.

CFCC Humanities & Fine Arts Center
200 Hanover Street
Wilmington, NC 28401

Where to Shop Local in Wilmington NC

Where to Shop Small in Wilmington, NC

 

Can you believe that it is December already? While we can’t believe it, we are also incredibly excited to start our holiday decorating and shopping.

We love the shop small movement, which was created to encourage shoppers to support their local businesses. In Wilmington, we have so many fantastic small stores and shops that offer perfect holiday gifts. Below, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite local Wilmington vendors and businesses.

 

Our Favorite Vendors in Wilmington, NC

AlfaGraphics
Rick and his team at Alfagraphics do such a phenomenal job and offer several print services including business cards, brochures, invitations and digital and traditional marketing materials.

Benjamin Franklin Plumbing
Randy and the team at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing are fantastic for plumbing repairs and hot water heater installations.

Kenny Fowler Heating & Air
We don’t know what we’d do without Kenny. Enough said!

Grant Brand Instrument Repair
Faith and Josh are the best in town for musical instrument repairs.

Luxe Home Interiors
There is always something amazing to find at Luxe and the friendly staff always makes our visits a great experience.

Seagate Baptists Church

Brad Southerland, Insurance Sales at Senn Dunn

 

Some of Our Favorite Stores and Services in Wilmington, NC:

Carter Kayte

Island Passage

Shoe Soultique

New River Pottery

Black Cat Shoppe

Cape Fear Spice Merchants

We’re lucky to have several great hair salons in Wilmington, NC! Here are some of our staff favorites:

N Salo Salon

The Rockin Roller Salon

Beauty Bar Boutique