Wilmington Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Wilmington and surrounding areas
Wilmington lights up Christmas 2025 with sparkling Holiday lights along the Riverwalk and historic downtown. Enchanted Airlie and the Merry & Bright Festival: A Holiday of Lights bring illuminated gardens and family-friendly displays while the 21st Annual Wilmington Tree Lighting marks the start of seasonal celebrations. With coastal charm, holiday activities, and winter festivals centered on the waterfront and historic districts, Wilmington offers memorable things to do for locals and visitors during the festive season.
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Christmas Lights
8 eventsHoliday lights fundraiser supporting garden conservation.
Christmas Markets
5 eventsLocal artisan crafts and coastal-themed gifts
Other Christmas Activities
8 eventsAnnual tree lighting ceremony
Editor's Picks (6)
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The South's Grandest Christmas Show
(North Myrtle Beach)
Myrtle Beach's #1 Christmas Show with a Comedic Stunt Juggler
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Enchanted Airlie
Holiday lights fundraiser supporting garden conservation.
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Merry & Bright Festival: A Holiday of Lights
Holiday lights festival celebrating America's 250th
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21st Annual Wilmington Tree Lighting
Annual tree lighting ceremony
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Holly Days Arts & Crafts Sale
(Southport)
Local artisan crafts and coastal-themed gifts
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Wilmington Celebration Choir Special Holiday Performance
(Jacksonville)
Holiday choir performance with Southern buffet and hayride
This Week / Coming Up (6)
Christmas Shows Near Wilmington
Christmas shows, theater performances, and holiday entertainment in Wilmington.
Handel's Messiah
Live performance of Handel's Messiah
The Nutcracker: NY Ballet for Young Audiences
Classic holiday ballet for young audiences
The South's Grandest Christmas Show
Myrtle Beach's #1 Christmas Show with a Comedic Stunt Juggler
Christmas Parties Near Wilmington
Festive dining experiences, holiday parties, and Christmas-themed food and drink events in Wilmington.
Wilmington Celebration Choir Special Holiday Performance
Holiday choir performance with Southern buffet and hayride
View Our Interactive Map for More Events Around Wilmington
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Wilmington Christmas FAQ
The biggest annual events include Enchanted Airlie, the Christmas Light Spectacular at the Railroad Museum, and the Holiday Market at the Riverfront.
Wilmington celebrates with lighted boat parades, festive drone shows on the riverfront, and community-driven holiday markets that highlight local crafts and food.
Popular neighborhoods for Christmas lights include historic downtown, Carolina Beach, and residential areas known for festive decorations.
Christmas markets and local makers can be found at the Riverfront, downtown Wilmington, and various neighborhood events throughout the holiday season.
Free activities include visiting neighborhood light displays, attending holiday markets, and enjoying festive events at public parks and the riverfront.
Families enjoy Enchanted Airlie, the Christmas Light Spectacular, holiday markets with kid-friendly activities, and festive events at the riverfront.