As the weather warms up here in Wilmington, NC, the area’s calendar is filling up with exciting activities to attend. Something is offered for everyone, whether you’re interested in shopping local, listening to live entertainment, enjoying a play or musical, or spending time outdoors in the coastal climate. Pull out your calendar and check out the area events in store this summer!
Markets and Festivals
Wilmington and the surrounding area offer so many ways to shop local. The culture here is supportive of the area business, and make it easy to support your neighbors, explore what local vendors have to offer, and these markets create fun experience. Farmers Markets are open weekly in Wilmington and are free to attend! Local produce, handmade items and delicious recipes can be found here, and you can meet the business owners behind the product! A couple local farmer’s markets include the following:
– Wrightsville Beach Farmers Market-Every Monday (beginning May 17) from 8 am–1 pm
Located at the Wrightsville Beach Municipal Grounds
– Poplar Grove Farmers Market-Every Wednesday from 8 am–1 pm
Located at Poplar Grove Plantation
– Riverfront Farmers Market-Every Saturday from8 am–1 pm
Located atWaterline Brewery
Live Music
Interested in catching a concert this summer? You’re in luck! Wilmington’s music venues such as greenfield Lake Amphitheatreare opening back up, and a brand-new amphitheater will be opening its doors this summer! Riverfront Park Amphitheaterjustannounced concerts by widespread panic and glass Animals this summer, likely the first of many concerts to be announced for the the7,200-capacity amphitheater. In addition to the larger concert venues, manybeachtownsaroundWilmington have free summer concert series, such as Ocean Isle Beach, Oak Island and Southport!
If you’re more interested in enjoying a meal or a cocktail while listening to local talent, several restaurants and bars offer the perfect setting for this! Here are a couple to try:
– Summer Music Series at The Oceanic at Wrightsville Beach
Thursdays from 6-9 pm and Sundays from 12-3 pm
– Live Music on the Patio at The Marina Grill in Downtown Wilmington
Sundays from 4-8 pm
Film, Theatre, and Art
2021 is projected to be a huge year for film, and the Wilmington area is playing a big part! Six productions have has been in the works thus far this year as part of the NC Film and Entertainment Grant, and filming is underway for a Netflix series“Along for the Ride” in Carolina Beach. Interested in going to see a movie yourself? Thalian Hall and The Wilson Center has a great lineup of movies, including several classics.
Live shows are returning to Thalian Hall and Wilson Center this year as well. Thalian Hall has just announced their line up for the community Theatre, featuring shows including Driving Miss Daisy, Elf the Musical, and Little Shop of horrors. The Wilson Center has upcoming ballet performances including Midsummer Night’s Dream and Cinderella.
Finally, art lovers will be thrilled to visit the area museums including the Cameron Arts Museum, Burgwin-Wright House, and Bellamy Mansionwith frequently updated exhibits offering a lot of variety for viewers.
As the weather heats up, so does the activity in Wilmington and surrounding! All of these options offer great entertainment and ways to explore our local area.
