With cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, autumn is an ideal time to immerse yourself in Wilmington’s historic charm and nearby island beaches. Just a short 10-minute boat ride from downtown, the Sunset Reach community offers easy access to a Cape Fear River cruise, a scenic horse-drawn carriage tour of the historic district, or a self-guided exploration of Wilmington’s vibrant downtown. Take in the lively arts scene, wander through picturesque parks and gardens, or unwind with local brews and craft cocktails while enjoying stunning views along the riverfront.
October 5: Wilmington Pottery Festival
Fat Cat Pottery presents the annual Pottery Festival at the scenic Trask Family Farm. From 10 AM to 4 PM, enjoy demonstrations, workshops, and shopping with local and regional potters and artists.
October 5: Pets in the Park
Hosted by the Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce, this family-friendly event at Carolina Beach Lake Park celebrates pets and pet-friendly businesses. From 10 AM to 2 PM, enjoy live music, an “ask the vet” booth, food trucks, face painting, pet costume and trick contests, giveaways, and a mimosa and beer garden.
October 5: Fire in the Pines
Raising awareness about controlled burns in the longleaf pine ecosystem, this festival at Halyburton Park runs from 10 AM to 3 PM. It features kids’ activities, fire equipment displays, hayrides, educational exhibits, live folk music, food trucks, raptor shows, and a live fire demonstration as the grand finale.
October 5-6: Riverfest
Wilmington’s largest fall festival, Riverfest, takes over Historic Downtown along Front Street from Chestnut to Orange Street. The event features food booths, craft vendors, children’s entertainment, live music, and a car show.
October 19: Wilmington Oktoberfest
Held at the Ogden Tap Room from Noon to 7 PM, this celebration of Bavarian culture includes live polka music, German food and beer, and the always-popular “wiener dog” races.
October 19-20: North Carolina Oyster Festival
This Ocean Isle Beach festival, founded in 1978, features kids’ activities, arts and crafts, live music, and contests including oyster shucking, eating, and cooking. Enjoy “bushels and bushels” of oysters at this long-standing coastal tradition.
October 25-26: Lighthouse Beer & Wine Festival
This annual festival, hosted by Lighthouse Beer & Wine, takes place at Live Oak Bank Pavilion
from Noon to 5 PM. It showcases dozens of breweries and wineries with live music creating a party atmosphere. Proceeds benefit the Carousel Child Advocacy Center.