North Carolina Holiday Flotilla at Wrightsville Beach
During Day in the Park, visitors can browse local arts and craft vendors, enjoy food vendors, and find activities for kids. Official Flotilla merchandise is available for purchase at the Flotilla Tent. In the evening, spectators can watch the flotilla boat parade followed by a fireworks show.
What to Expect
Features a boat parade, fireworks display, and festival in the park.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Wrightsville Beach
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
NC Holiday Flotilla at Wrightsville Beach
Food & Drink
Food vendors are available during Day in the Park; the Friday kickoff party offers snacks and a cash bar.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and boat-parade fans
Vibe
Festive and community-minded
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: Captains' Meeting: 5:30 pm Fri; Day in the Park: 10:00 am–4:00 pm Sat; Sponsor Viewing Tent opens: 5:00 pm Sat; Flotilla Boat Parade begins: 6:00 pm Sat; Awards Ceremony: 10:00 am Sun.
Tips & Advice
- Come early on Saturday for Day in the Park, with local arts and crafts vendors, food vendors and kids' activities before the boat parade.
- Stay put after the boat parade ends on Saturday night, because a fireworks show follows it.
- Buy Kickoff Party tickets ahead if you want Friday night live music from Spare Change, snacks and a cash bar at Bluewater Grill.
- Pick up official Flotilla merch at the Flotilla Tent during Day in the Park on Saturday.
- If you're entering a boat, send in the 2026 Boat Entry Form and plan to attend the Captains' Meeting on Friday evening.
Special Events & Promotions
- Friday Kickoff Party hosted by Bluewater Grill, with live music from Spare Change, snacks, entertainment and a cash bar. Separate tickets.
- Sponsor Viewing Tent opens Saturday evening ahead of the boat parade.
- Sunday morning Awards Ceremony, presented by REDIX in memory of Gordon D. Reddick III "Dee."
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What's at Day in the Park?
Day in the Park has local arts and crafts vendors, food vendors and activities for kids. Official Flotilla merch is sold at the Flotilla Tent.
Are there fireworks?
Yes, fireworks follow the Flotilla Boat Parade on Saturday.
How do I enter my boat in the parade?
Fill out the 2026 Boat Entry Form. Captains meet at the Captains' Meeting on Friday.
Can I still sign up as a vendor?
No, 2026 Day in the Park vendor spots are sold out.
How can my business sponsor the Flotilla?
Fill out the 2026 sponsorship form. A sponsorship packet lays out the options.
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