🎄 Top 5 Things to Do During the Holiday Season in the Cape Fear Region

For First-Time Visitors & Future Relocators Discovering Coastal Carolina Charm

By Chris Meek Realty – Making Carolina Dreams a Reality

The Cape Fear Region shines during the holiday season with sparkling lights, waterfront celebrations, charming small-town traditions, and mild coastal weather that makes exploring easy and enjoyable.

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or considering relocation, here are the top five must-experience holiday events that showcase the  splendor of Wilmington, Carolina Beach, Fort Fisher, Wrightsville Beach, and Southport.

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1. Enchanted Airlie at Airlie Gardens

Airlie Holiday Gallery

Every December, Airlie Gardens transforms into a glowing winter wonderland during Enchanted Airlie — with illuminated oak trees, lighted pathways, lakeside reflections, and serene holiday allure in one of Wilmington’s most beautiful historic gardens.

It’s peaceful, breathtaking, and one of the region’s most loved traditions for both locals and visitors.

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2. Christmas by the Sea — Carolina Beach Boardwalk

Carolina Beach Holiday Gallery

Carolina Beach glows with coastal holiday charm during Christmas by the Sea. The boardwalk lights up with colorful arches and displays, oceanfront Santa visits, fire pits for s’mores, live music, and themed weekend festivities.

For many newcomers, this is the event that makes them say: “I could live here.”

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3. Wilmington Holiday Parade & Riverfront Lights

Wilmington Holiday Gallery

Historic downtown Wilmington comes alive each December. The Holiday Parade fills Front Street with music, floats, and festive energy, while the Riverfront glows with seasonal lights, decorated shops, and carriage rides along the Cape Fear River.

It’s a perfect introduction to the walkable, historic, and vibrant lifestyle that draws so many people to call Wilmington home.

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4. Festival of Trees — North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher

Festival of Trees Gallery

The Festival of Trees turns the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher into a holiday forest. Dozens of creatively decorated trees line the exhibits, blending festive decor with glowing jellyfish, touch tanks, and marine life.

Families, especially those considering a move to the area, love this unique combination of education, fun, and seasonal spirit.

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5. Holiday Flotillas — Wrightsville Beach & Southport

Holiday Flotilla Gallery

The Wrightsville Beach Holiday Flotilla and Southport Winterfest Boat Parade are two of the Cape Fear Region’s most iconic holiday events. Decorated boats glide across the Intracoastal Waterway, their lights reflecting on the water and creating unforgettable coastal scenes.

It’s coastal North Carolina holiday magic at its finest.

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Why the Cape Fear Region Is Perfect for the Holidays

The Cape Fear Region offers:

• Mild coastal winters
• Waterfront celebrations and light displays
• Family-friendly events and traditions
• Historic charm with modern amenities
• A welcoming, community-focused atmosphere

For many visitors, the holiday season is when they realize: “This is where I want to live.”

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🎄 Ready to Explore Homes in Coastal Carolina?

Imagine spending next holiday season in your new coastal home.

As someone who relocated here and built a life along these beautiful shores, I’m here to help guide your next steps.

📞 910-231-1553
🌐 ChrisMeekRealty.com
Chris Meek, Realtor – Century 21 Vanguard
Helping Make Carolina Dreams a Reality