Southport History Events - 2020 Schedule

For more than 70 years, the North Carolina Azalea Festival has reigned supreme as one of the biggest and best festivals along the southeast coastline, and newcomers are welcome to join in the fun to experience full days of vendors, live music, parades, and other events that shine a spotlight on the lively city of Wilmington. Founded in 1948, the North Carolina Azalea Festival has emerged as one of the most anticipated events in the state, and the celebration attracts visitors from all over the world who want to discover how enchanting the Cape Fear region can be.

Come and lend a hand in keeping one of the Cape Fear coastline’s most iconic landmarks clean during this special day that brings together history buffs and volunteers of all ages. Park Day is an annual event where folks get together to freshen up the Fort Fisher Historic Site in Kure Beach, and are rewarded for their efforts with a sumptuous lunch, a free T-shirt, and a chance to get a closer look at this unique and legendary local site.

Arguably one of the most anticipated corresponding events of the annual North Carolina Azalea Festival, the NC Azalea Festival Historic Home Tour is a rare opportunity to take a peek into both private and public sites in the heart of downtown Wilmington, and to learn more about this historic Port City community. Featuring an array of eye-catching residences that can be admired inside and out, this tour gives an inside look into centuries of local history in an engaging and educational way.

The USS North Carolina Battleship that’s docked along the edge of downtown Wilmington is remarkable in more ways than one, and during this special presentation, visitors will be able to learn about all the important markers this impressive vessel signifies. The Showboat: Battleship Systems and Design event is a unique opportunity to go behind the scenes of this historic vessel, and learn how it became a model for all the battleships that followed.

Celebrating its 45th year in 2020, the Rims on the River Car Show has become an annual tradition for area car fans, thanks to its incredible display of vintage rides from all across the globe. Held on the waterfront in the heart of downtown Wilmington, this extensive expo will fascinate car fans of all ages and interests.

Go behind the scenes of one of the most famous attractions along the Cape Fear River with this in-depth tour of Wilmington’s most treasured landmark, the USS Battleship North Carolina. This special one-afternoon-only tour takes participants deep into the depths of the ship, and is an illuminating look into one of the most famous battleships of the World War II era.

Memorial Day on Bald Head Island is a true celebration that will introduce newcomers and longtime vacationers alike to all the amazing things to do and see in this island community. Known as the official kick-off to the summer season, the Memorial Day Weekend Celebration features a wealth of hikes, watersports, art-centric events, and plenty of good food and great times to encourage everyone to escape to the beach and join in the fun.

Head to the deck of one of the most famous landmarks in coastal North Carolina for a Memorial Day observance ceremony that won’t soon be forgotten. The Battleship North Carolina Memorial Day observance is an annual event that pays tributes to the men and women who bravely served our country, and which features a patriotic service on board one of the most impressive American battleships to sail the seas.

Honor the veterans and military members of the community of Southport and all across the country at this annual event that pays tribute to American heroes. The Memorial Day Observance and Parade is a celebrated annual event that takes place in the heart of downtown Southport, and which is open to anyone who wants to show their appreciation for our military members.

Memorial Day on Bald Head Island is a true celebration that will introduce newcomers and longtime vacationers alike to all the amazing things to do and see in this island community. Known as the official kick-off to the summer season, the Memorial Day Weekend Celebration features a wealth of hikes, watersports, art-centric events, and plenty of good food and great times to encourage everyone to escape to the beach and join in the fun.

North Carolina, and specifically Bald Head Island, is renowned for a wealth of treasures including historical sites and landmarks, a vibrant cultural scene, and plenty of unique things to eat and drink, and visitors can experience all of these treasures and more at the annual North Carolina Treasures Weekend. Traditionally held in early June, this weekend is a toast to the wonderful things that Bald Head Island has to offer, and features a wealth of food, art, history, and spirits to please everyone in the party.

Celebrate fly flag by flying your own colors on board one of the biggest landmarks in downtown Wilmington with this special event that combines history and patriotism with ease. The annual Flag Day at Battleship NC is a prime opportunity to celebrate the holiday while exploring one of the most impressive battleships to come out of the WWII era.

Revered as one of the oldest Independence Day celebrations in the state, the North Carolina 4th of July Festival is a big event that attracts visitors from all along the coastline and miles beyond to the charming town of Southport. Boasting a parade, a fair-style collection of vendors, a myriad of shows and activities, and a stunning display of fireworks over the water, this annual event lives up to its reputations as one of the most beloved 4^th of July celebrations on the coast.

Revered as one of the oldest Independence Day celebrations in the state, the North Carolina 4th of July Festival is a big event that attracts visitors from all along the coastline and miles beyond to the charming town of Southport. Boasting a parade, a fair-style collection of vendors, a myriad of shows and activities, and a stunning display of fireworks over the water, this annual event lives up to its reputations as one of the most beloved 4^th of July celebrations on the coast.

The Fourth of July is easily one of the most festive days on Bald Head Island, and visitors can join in the fun with a wide array of activities that are found around town. The annual Bald Head Island Fourth of July Celebration is packed with tours, games, food, and fun – as well as a famed annual parade – and is a great way to truly enjoy everything this island community has to offer.

Water lovers of all ages and all varieties will have a ball exploring the fun and educational Southport Wooden Boat Show. Held in the peak of fall, this annual celebration brings together talented boat makers and mariners to showcase a stunning display of wooden boats, while providing a little history on Southport’s maritime heritage and life on the water.