Celebrate America 250 in Wilmington, NC

In 2026, the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, and Wilmington is joining the celebration. Founded in 1739, Wilmington grew as a key colonial port and played a meaningful role in the events leading up to the American Revolution. The Cape Fear region is tied to pivotal moments in our nation’s founding, including the Patriot victory at nearby Moore’s Creek Bridge. Today, historic streets and key landmarks bring these stories to life, offering plenty of ways to celebrate America250 through history, culture and local pride.

Quintessential Experiences

Whether it’s stepping inside the Burgwin-Wright House to experience what colonial life was like during pre-revolutionary Wilmington or embarking on an Outlander Tour to explore the historic Scottish roots in our area, American history is woven into these quintessential Wilmington experiences. Just north of Wilmington, Moore’s Creek National Battlefield marks a pivotal 1776 Patriot victory and stands at the heart of our area’s America250 celebration. Across the Cape Fear River sits the first permanent settlement of the Cape Fear Region, Brunswick Town which later became known as Fort Anderson during the Civil War. Explore these historic places and discover the stories that helped shape our nation.

Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens

Latimer House Museum

Bellamy Mansion Museum of History & Design Arts

Moores Creek National Battlefield

Fort Fisher State Historic Site

Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson

More Things To Do

Although not directly tied to colonial history - museums, theaters and cultural spaces across Wilmington are planning special events, programs and experiences to mark the occasion. Including but not limited to the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science (new location coming soon!), Wilmington Railroad Museum, Battleship NORTH CAROLINA and historic performances at Thalian Hall Center for Performing Arts. History lovers can also check this list of history tours and excursions to explore Wilmington's past. More events and ways to celebrate the birth of our nation and 250 years of American history are being added throughout the year, so be sure to check back often to see what’s new.

View Events

Festive Flavors and Specials

Raise your glasses to America 250! Flying Machine Brewing has released a special America 250 brew, First In Freedom: Battlefield Ale, that you can enjoy at the brewery and participating locations. More food and drink experiences will be added as plans develop, in the meantime, check out spots like Rebellion or Copper Penny for a fitting theme or embark on the Ale Trail for more delicious local brews. Be sure to check back often to see what’s new!

Places To Stay

Check out these stays offering discounts in celebration of America250

Courtyard Wilmington-Wrightsville Beach

Overnight FIFF Passport guests receive free Bistro breakfast.

Hilton Garden Inn Wilmington Mayfaire Town Center

Overnight FIFF Passport guests eligible for free Bistro breakfast.

Couple sitting on the porch of a houseboat along the Cape Fear River.

The Cove Riverwalk Villas

10% off (2) nights or more with code "First in Freedom"

Home2 Suites Wilmington - Medical Park Downtown

Home2 Suites by Hilton Wilmington - Medical Park Downtown

Group rate $109+ tax

Home2 Suites Wilmington by Hilton - Wrightsville Beach

Home2 Suites by Hilton Wilmington - Wrightsville Beach

15% off regular price

Hotel Lela Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Enjoy 15% off your 2026 stay - use corporate account number: 2998750

Tru by Hilton Wilmington

Enjoy 15% off your 2026 stay - use corporate account number: 2998750

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Wilmington - Wrightsville Beach

SpringHill Suites Wilmington-Wrightsville Beach

Special package for FIFF passport holders | use promo code 8WI for discount

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First in Freedom Festival Passport

The First in Freedom Festival Passport Program, hosted by Moore’s Creek National Battlefield as part of the region’s America250 celebrations, is a collectible passport that will let you visit participating locations and earn special prizes as you explore history across southeastern North Carolina. Check out the guide here and pick up your physical copy at the following participating locations in New Hanover County:

Celebrate America 250 in Wilmington, NC

Quintessential Experiences

Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens

Latimer House Museum

Bellamy Mansion Museum of History & Design Arts

Moores Creek National Battlefield

Fort Fisher State Historic Site

Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson

More Things To Do

Festive Flavors and Specials

Places To Stay

Courtyard Wilmington-Wrightsville Beach

Hilton Garden Inn Wilmington Mayfaire Town Center

The Cove Riverwalk Villas

Home2 Suites by Hilton Wilmington - Medical Park Downtown

Home2 Suites by Hilton Wilmington - Wrightsville Beach

Hotel Lela Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Tru by Hilton Wilmington

SpringHill Suites Wilmington-Wrightsville Beach

Recent Post

Wilmington is Revolutionary: Ways to Explore America 250 History

Recent Post

How to Explore Your Scottish Heritage in Wilmington

First in Freedom Festival Passport

A250 Related Events

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