Holidays on Water in Wilmington, NC

Celebrate the Season from Historic Downtown to Our Three Island Beaches

Celebrate the holidays in Wilmington and its three island beaches: Carolina, Kure and Wrightsville, where coastal charm meets festive magic. Enjoy twinkling lights, riverfront drone shows, lighted boat parades and seasonal flavors at award-winning restaurants. Shop unique gifts at oceanfront and downtown holiday markets. With endless holiday cheer, a getaway here is the ultimate gift. There’s no place like our coast for the holidays.

Holiday drone show over the Cape Fear River in historic downtown Wilmington. The drones lit up the sky with a North Carolina shaped display with a starfish on Wilmington.

Historic Downtown Holiday Drone Shows

Don’t miss the highlight of Wilmington’s holiday season—the dazzling drone shows lighting up the downtown riverfront with stunning displays over the water.

Drone Show Schedule:

When: Dec. 13, 20 and 27 at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Water Street on Wilmington's Riverfront

Here are some pointers to make your evening even brighter:

Allow ample time for parking. The show starts promptly at 7:30 p.m. Come early and enjoy strolling through the lights on the Riverfront.

View the Holiday Drone Show from the Wilmington Riverfront. The drones are designed to be seen from the Wilmington side of the river. Parking is not allowed at the Battleship during the show and the view is very limited from that side of the river.

Enjoy a visit and photo op with Santa at the Dec. 13 and 20 shows. The line will close at 7:45 p.m. so come early to see him.

Hot Chocolate & Coffee will be available for purchase from Port City Java at the Visitors Booth.