Lights & Laughs: Winter Events in Carolina and Kure Beach
Both located on Pleasure Island in southeastern North Carolina, Carolina Beach and Kure Beach are fantastic destinations that combine natural beauty, history, and coastal charm. These towns are perfect year-round for family getaways, romantic escapes, or relaxing beach vacations.
Winter in these two North Carolina gems feels extra magical thanks to their schedule of winter events. The festivities in Carolina Beach and Kure Beach are all about celebrating the holiday spirit with unique activities, glittering lights, stunning decorations, delicious food, and cheerful locals and visitors.
Planning a trip to NC soon? Here are the best winter events in Carolina Beach and Kure Beach that will make your stay truly unforgettable.
Before We Start…
At Carolina Beach Realty, we’ve got a range of fantastic rentals in Pleasure Island. Whether you’re into cozy oceanfront condos or big beachfront houses, we’ve got something for everyone. Want to enjoy the area like a local? Check out our destination blog!
We’ve got the scoop on the best time of the year for fishing, lots of pet travel tips, and what it’s like to call these beach towns home. We’ve also got you covered with the top Kure Beach attractions to help you explore the region even further. Our blog is packed with articles and local insights to help you make the most of your stay.
Ready to have the most fun on Pleasure Island? Let’s dive in!
The Best Winter Events in Carolina Beach NC
Island of Lights: Lighting at the Lake
The festive season begins with the Island of Lights Festival, marking the official light-up ceremony that unveils Carolina Beach’s dazzling Christmas illuminations. This family-friendly event typically takes place throughout the holiday season — usually from the end of November through December—and offers a magical combination of lights, activities, and beach-town charm.
During the event, the famous Carolina Beach Lake Park is transformed into a sparkling holiday wonderland, adorned with thousands of twinkling lights and festive decorations. A stroll through the park’s one-mile lake trail is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit and capture stunning photos.
To make the occasion even more festive, visitors can enjoy meet-and-greet sessions with Santa, live holiday music, and performances by local groups. Local vendors offer a variety of charming gifts, holiday décor, and handcrafted goods, while kids can take part in fun activities such as cookie decorating, ornament crafting, and face painting.
Carolina Beach Christmas Parade
We never get tired of Christmas celebrations, and here’s one more to enjoy! Every Friday after Thanksgiving, it’s time to marvel at the fun and colorful sights that fill the Town of Carolina Beach. The parade features vibrant floats, beautifully decorated for the holidays, often adorned with lights, festive themes, and creative designs. Participants include local businesses, community groups, and schools, spreading cheer as they make their way down Lake Park Boulevard.
Adding to the excitement, marching bands, cheer squads, and dance groups bring energy and holiday spirit with their lively performances. And, of course, no Christmas celebration would be complete without a visit from Santa Claus, who waves to the crowd and delights children of all ages.
Island of Lights Flotilla
How about watching a Christmas parade that takes place on the water? The Island of Lights Flotilla offers a unique opportunity to see boats adorned with dazzling holiday lights and over-the-top decorations as they sail along the Intracoastal Waterway in Carolina Beach, creating a stunning visual spectacle. Participants pull out all the stops, crafting creative displays on their vessels and competing for awards like Best Decorated Boat or Crowd Favorite.
The flotilla is a family-friendly event, perfect for holiday outings with children. Many families gather with blankets and chairs to watch the glowing parade, soaking in the festive atmosphere together. You can also enjoy live music or holiday-themed entertainment, along with vendors offering seasonal treats like hot cocoa, cider, and snacks to keep everyone warm and cheerful.
Insider tip: Prime viewing spots include Carolina Beach and Kure Beach, with public docks and waterfront areas providing excellent vantage points.
Carolina Beach State Park Half Marathon & 5K Run
Are you a runner, a soon-to-be runner, or someone looking to test your limits? The Carolina Beach State Park Half Marathon & 5K Run, typically held in the fall or early winter, offers a fantastic opportunity to combine fitness, natural beauty, and community spirit.
The race routes showcase the stunning landscapes of Carolina Beach State Park, including its maritime forest, sand dunes, and picturesque views of the Cape Fear River. Both the half marathon and the 5K provide runners with the chance to explore well-maintained trails featuring varied terrain.
The 13.1-mile half marathon is a true test of endurance, with sections of sand, dirt paths, and forest trails, making it ideal for seasoned runners seeking a unique trail-running experience. The 5K, on the other hand, is a shorter option, perfect for beginners, families, or those who prefer a less demanding course.
After crossing the finish line, participants gather to mingle, share their experiences, and enjoy refreshments and music, creating a celebratory and supportive atmosphere.
New Year’s Eve Countdown & Fireworks
Celebrate the end of the year in style at the Carolina Beach Boardwalk with a stunning fireworks display over the Atlantic Ocean.
The event builds excitement as attendees gather at the iconic Boardwalk for the final countdown to the new year. A digital countdown clock keeps the crowd engaged as the seconds tick away to midnight. As the new year begins, a dazzling fireworks show illuminates the night sky, and the celebration becomes even more lively with live music and DJ performances throughout the evening.
The Best Winter Events in Kure Beach NC
Kure Beach Holiday Whoobie Whatty
The Kure Beach Holiday Whoobie Whatty is a one-of-a-kind Christmas celebration held at the Kure Beach Ocean Front Park & Pavilion in December. If you’re a fan of the mischievous Grinch, this festive event is sure to bring joy to your holiday season.
This annual outdoor celebration, inspired by the beloved Grinch, kicks off with a screening of the 2000 film How the Grinch Stole Christmas. The fun doesn’t stop there—activities like face painting, Grinch-themed crafts, cookie decorating, and photo ops with the Grinch himself add to the cheerful atmosphere.
Cape Fear Festival of Trees
Held at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher in Kure Beach, the Cape Fear Festival of Trees showcases beautifully decorated Christmas trees, each uniquely designed and sponsored by local businesses, organizations, and individuals. If you’re in town and looking to capture the perfect holiday photos, this is a fantastic opportunity.
The trees are adorned with creative themes, lights, and ornaments, transforming the aquarium into a festive winter wonderland. The decorations are set against exhibits featuring marine life such as sea turtles, stingrays, and sharks, offering a truly unique holiday experience. While exploring the aquarium and its holiday displays, you and your family can also enjoy additional activities like scavenger hunts and seasonal treats available on-site.
Special Olympics Polar Plunge
Another quirky event hosted at the Kure Beach Ocean Front Park & Pavilion around mid-February is the Special Olympics Polar Plunge, an annual fundraiser inviting participants to brave the chilly Atlantic waters in support of Special Olympics North Carolina.
The sight of participants in creative costumes or swimsuits taking a daring leap into the icy Atlantic is both entertaining and uplifting, perfect for those looking to share some laughs and soak in the positive energy radiating from the courageous plungers. The event also includes a 5K Run-N-Plunge, a one-mile fun walk, live music, and a costume contest, all contributing to a festive atmosphere for a great cause.
Why Should You Visit Carolina Beach and Kure Beach in Winter?
Wondering what else draws visitors to Carolina Beach and Kure Beach in winter beyond the festive holiday celebrations and events? Here are several great reasons to make these North Carolina towns your next winter getaway:
- Fewer Crowds: Enjoy the peaceful beaches and attractions without the hustle and bustle of summer tourists.
- Natural Beauty: Stroll along serene beaches, explore Carolina Beach State Park, or enjoy the quiet of Kure Beach’s fishing pier.
- Historical Attractions: Visit Fort Fisher State Historic Site and the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher without the crowds.
- Mild Weather: North Carolina winters are mild, making outdoor activities like hiking and exploring enjoyable year-round.
- Local Charm: Support local businesses and savor delicious coastal cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.
- Stunning Holiday Decor: Both towns light up with beautiful decorations and festive vibes during the holidays.
- Affordable Getaways: Off-season rates make accommodations and activities more budget-friendly.
Quick Tips for Enjoying Carolina Beach and Kure Beach in Winter
- Dress in Layers: While winters are mild, evenings can get chilly by the beach, so bring layers for outdoor activities.
- Support Local Businesses: Dine at cozy local restaurants and browse unique shops for holiday gifts or souvenirs.
- Catch the Sunrise: Winter mornings are perfect for watching stunning sunrises over the Atlantic with fewer people around.
- Stay Active: Participate in events like the Polar Plunge or explore the area through hiking, biking, or paddleboarding.
- Book Early: While it’s the off-season, popular accommodations and activities during holiday events can still fill up quickly.
- Relax and Unwind: Take advantage of the peaceful vibe to enjoy a slower pace and truly recharge.
- Bring Your Camera: Capture the beauty of festive lights, serene beaches, and unique coastal landscapes.
How to Make Your Time in Carolina Beach and Kure Beach Even More Special?
Stay like a local by booking one of our Carolina Beach Realty rentals. Our rentals are primarily in Carolina Beach and Kure Beach, ranging from small oceanfront condos to large beachfront homes.
Carolina Beach Realty is a family-owned and operated full-service property management and vacation rental company. We pride ourselves on keeping it local and supporting the surrounding community.