Your Guide to Thanksgiving Weekend

November in Wilmington, North Carolina, brings mild temperatures and a crisp coastal backdrop. Whether you're hosting family and friends or visiting for the first time, we've rounded up everything to do, see and eat in our area.

Annual Events

From Thanksgiving Day turkey trots to holiday kickoff events, find your next family-friendly tradition.

wrightsville Beach Turkey Trot

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Thanksgiving Day Bites

Get the scoop on restaurants open on Thanksgiving Day, or scroll through the listings below to start planning — just don't forget to grab your reservation early or get your orders in. Or, if you are looking for something special to get you in the turkey mood, try these iconic local specials:

The Margaret — The Half's version of a Thanksgiving leftover sandwich.
Turkey Changa — Flaming Amy's take on the holiday classic.

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Bluewater Waterfront Grill

Offering spectacular panoramic Intracoastal Waterway views from inside, as well...

The Bridge Tender

A favorite place to gather since 1976, this waterfront seafood and steakhouse...

The Kitchen at Biggers Market

Established in 2023, The Kitchen at Biggers Market is a restaurant extension of...

Elijah’s Oyster & Fish Camp

Go ahead and anchor down at one of the largest porches on the Riverwalk! Since...

The Fork n Cork

The place to be if you are in a meaty mood, discover this cozy restaurant with...

Front Street Brewery

Wilmington's original restaurant and brewery started in 1995, Front Street...

La Duna Paradiso

Taking dining to a new level, La Duna Paradiso, Wrightsville Beach’s newest...

Oceanic Restaurant

Surrounded by scenic ocean views, the Oceanic makes every meal a celebration...

Pilot House Restaurant

Founded in 1978, The Pilot House has become a tradition for seafood with a local...

Ruth's Chris Steak House

Serving spectacular steaks and other dinner choices with incredible sunset...

Solstice Oceanfront Kitchen + Cocktails

Located on the Main Level of the recently renovated Lumina on Wrightsville...

Steam Restaurant & Bar

Savor a delicious lunch or dinner with an unforgettable water view in casual...

The Harp Authentic Irish Fine Food and Drink

Serving traditional Irish family recipes in a casual pub atmosphere complete...

Michael's Seafood Restaurant

Serving savory dishes from the sea and land since 1998, Michael's Seafood offers...

Family-Friendly Photo Ops & Activities

Elevate your Thanksgiving family pictures this year with the ultimate fall foliage and beautiful coastal backgrounds. Check out these parks to explore blooming color. Or, check out more fall-inspired Instagramable spots around town.

10 Instagrammable Spots to Elevate Your Feed This Fall

From golden-hour river views to pumpkin patch portraits, Wilmington and its island beaches serve up picture-perfect backdrops all season long. Whether...

Plan the Perfect Thanksgiving in Wilmington, NC

Spend Thanksgiving weekend in Wilmington for a mix of riverside charm, tasty coastal eats and holiday fun.

Thanksgiving Fun Awaits in Carolina Beach, NC

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Couple sits on the swings overlooking the beach at Kure Beach

Make the Most of Thanksgiving in Kure Beach, NC

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Celebrate Thanksgiving in Wrightsville Beach, NC

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Book Your Thanksgiving Stay

Fit for a family or group of any size. Choose anything from vacation rentals - fit for large groups and "home" cooking, or laid back coastal inns.

Bryant Real Estate: Carolina Beach

Dedicated to helping you find an ideal vacation rental at Carolina or Kure...

Carolina Beach Realty

Offering houses and condos of all sizes with oceanfront, ocean view or canal...

Intracoastal Vacation Rentals - Carolina & Kure Beach

One of the most comprehensive vacation rental sources, an extensive variety of...

North Carolina Cottages

Explore the wonders of coastal North Carolina by staying in one of North...

Wrightsville Sands Realty

Wrightsville Sands Realty is here to offer vacation rental properties and...

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Holidays on Water

Thanksgiving weekend is the official kickoff to the holiday season in Wilmington, North Carolina. Be sure to join in the fun and check out all the great events happening around town.

Family walking up the Bellamy Mansion entrance stairs during Christmas

Holiday

With special events and activities galore, plan a holiday getaway.

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Thanksgiving Weekend Events

Filter by location, date, and preferred category on the left-hand side to find an event perfect for you and your family.

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