Illustration of a light display scene (Island of Lights: Lighting at the Lake)
Christmas Lights

Island of Lights: Lighting at the Lake

Visitors gather for an official lighting ceremony featuring a lit Christmas tree and illuminated holiday displays. Guests can stroll around the lake to view the various festive lights sponsored by the Island of Lights Committee. Santa is also on hand to hear holiday wishes.

What to Expect

Official lighting ceremony with lake light displays and Santa visits.

Event Details

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Carolina Beach

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

Wilmington and Beaches Convention & Visitors Bureau

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Families and holiday-light fans

Vibe

Festive and welcoming

Energy Level

Low

Budget

Free

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Location

The Lake
Intersection of Atlanta Ave and Lake Park Blvd, Carolina Beach, NC
Carolina Beach, NC
28428

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: Free to the public.
  • Hours: 6:30 p.m.

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive before the 6:30 p.m. start so you can be in place when the tree and displays are lit.
  • Walk around the lake to see the many light displays sponsored by the Island of Lights Committee.
  • Dress warmly for an evening outdoors, especially if you plan to stand for the ceremony and stroll around the lake.
  • The event is free to the public, so enjoy the lighting and displays without an admission charge.
  • Santa will be there to hear Christmas wishes, so allow time for a visit during the event.

Special Events & Promotions

  • An official light-up ceremony is planned for this year's event.

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens at the lighting?

An official light-up ceremony switches on the tree and the light displays at the lake. It's the official start of the month-long Island of Lights Festival in Carolina and Kure Beaches.

Will Santa be there?

Yes. Santa will be there to hear Christmas wishes.

Can we walk around and see the displays?

Yes. Take a walk around the lake to see the many light displays sponsored by the Island of Lights Committee.

Is it open to everyone?

Yes. It's free and open to the public.

Tags

holiday light displaysfamily friendlySanta visitsfree eventcommunity celebrationfestive decorationsholiday seasonseasonal activities

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Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Oct 20, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team