Brunswick County NC Festivals & Events | Retirement Calendar by Town
Brunswick County NC festivals and events celebrate coastal heritage, seafood, arts, holidays, and community spirit—adding vibrancy and social opportunities to retirement living in towns like Ocean Isle Beach, Sunset Beach, Holden Beach, Oak Island, Southport, Calabash, Shallotte, and Leland. These gatherings are perfect for retirees near luxury golf communities like St. James Plantation and Ocean Ridge Plantation. Below, find festivals by town with detailed overviews, approximate 2026 dates (always check official sites for exact confirmations), history, who they attract, and why they’re loved. For more on the area, see the Brunswick County area information, coastal towns guide, or cost of living guide.
As your local Brunswick County coastal expert, Suzanne Polino (910-477-1378) can help you find homes for sale in these lovely coastal NC communities.
Ocean Isle Beach Festivals & Events
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Annual North Carolina Oyster Festival
North Carolina Oyster Festival (Mid-October): Running for over 40 years since 1978, this signature event draws 50,000+ visitors with fresh oyster shucking competitions, live music, arts & crafts vendors, food trucks, and family activities along the beachfront. People love the casual coastal vibe, delicious seafood (like oyster stew cook-off), and community spirit—it’s a highlight for retirees seeking social gatherings, food, and fun in a relaxed setting. Attracts foodies, families, locals, and visitors from across the Southeast who enjoy beachside celebrations and oyster feasts.
Best Spots to Watch the North Carolina Holiday Flotilla Boat Parade
Ocean Isle Beach Flotilla (Early December): A beloved 20+ year tradition featuring a parade of decorated boats on the Intracoastal Waterway, complete with fireworks and festive lights. Retirees adore the magical coastal Christmas atmosphere, evening social gatherings, and small-town cheer; it’s a perfect winter event for snowbirds and locals alike. Attracts families, boat enthusiasts, and holiday lovers who enjoy the spectacle and community vibe.
Explore Ocean Isle Beach homes for sale near these events.
Sunset Beach Festivals & Events
Sunset at Sunset | Sunset Beach NC
Sunset at Sunset Festival (Early October): Held for 15+ years, this free family-friendly event features live music, arts & crafts vendors, food trucks, and kids’ activities at Sunset Beach Park—celebrating the town’s famous sunsets. People love the laid-back atmosphere, scenic location, and community bonding; it’s a relaxing day for retirees to enjoy music, food, and people-watching. Attracts families, locals, and visitors seeking a low-key coastal celebration.
Sunset Sound Waves Concert Series
Sunset Beach Concert Series (June–August, weekly): A 20+ year summer tradition with free outdoor concerts at the gazebo, featuring beach music, shag dancing, and picnics under the stars. Retirees cherish the music, dancing, and social evenings; it’s a classic coastal entertainment staple for relaxed fun. Attracts locals and summer visitors who love dancing and music.
Check Sunset Beach homes for sale for properties close to these festivities.
Holden Beach Festivals & Events
NC Festival by the Sea in Holden Beach
NC Festival by the Sea (Late October): Running for over 40 years, this coastal arts & crafts festival in the heart of Holden Beach draws thousands with vendors, live entertainment, food, and kids’ activities. People love the small-town island setting, unique crafts, and relaxed vibe; it’s a favorite for retirees who enjoy browsing, music, and beachside shopping. Attracts artists, families, and locals from the Southeast.
Summer is Sea Turtle Time in the Brunswick Islands
Holden Beach Turtle Watch Festival (Late June): A 20+ year eco-event with educational talks, guided beach walks, and sea turtle conservation activities. Retirees appreciate the nature education, outdoor participation, and conservation focus; it’s a meaningful gathering for wildlife lovers. Attracts environmentalists, families, and retirees interested in eco-tourism.
View Holden Beach homes for sale near these island events.
Oak Island Festivals & Events
Oak Island Lighthouse Walk/Run is usually held in April of each year.
Oak Island Lighthouse Run (Early April): Held for 15+ years, this race includes half marathon, 10K, and 5K routes around the iconic lighthouse. People love the fitness challenge, ocean scenery, and community energy; it’s a highlight for active retirees. Attracts runners, families, and fitness enthusiasts.
Oak Island Summer Concert Series – Oak Island NC
Oak Island Summer Concert Series (June–August, weekly): A 20+ year tradition with free concerts at Middleton Park featuring beach music and picnics—relaxed outdoor evenings. Retirees enjoy the music and social gatherings; it’s a summer staple for casual entertainment. Attracts locals and visitors.
See Oak Island homes for sale for retirement near these attractions.
Southport Festivals & Events
Brunswick, NC Events | Southport 4th of July Festival & Fireworks
Southport Fourth of July Festival (July 4): The nation’s oldest continuous 4th of July celebration (200+ years since 1795) with parades, fireworks, crafts, and waterfront activities. People love the historic setting and patriotic family traditions; it’s a big event for retirees and visitors. Attracts retirees, families, and locals from across NC.
Christmas spirit alive and well in Southport with Winterfest
Southport Winterfest (Early December): A 15+ year holiday event with lights, boat flotilla, tree lighting, and festive activities. Retirees cherish the magical coastal Christmas atmosphere; it’s a seasonal favorite. Attracts snowbirds and families from the region.
Explore Southport homes for sale for properties near these waterfront festivities.
Calabash Festivals & Events
Calabash Concert Series | Calabash NC
Calabash Concert Series (May–September, weekly): A 20+ year outdoor music tradition at Town Park with beach tunes and shag dancing. People love the relaxed evenings and social scene; it’s a summer highlight for retirees. Attracts retirees and music fans from Brunswick County.
Calabash Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting
Calabash Christmas Tree Lighting (Early December): A 10+ year community holiday event with lights, music, and Santa visits. Retirees enjoy the small-town cheer; it’s a festive tradition. Attracts families and locals in the seafood capital.
Check Calabash homes for sale for homes near these seafood capital events.
Shallotte Festivals & Events
Fall Festivals Along the Coast! – Shallotte NC
Shallotte Riverfest (Mid-October): A 20+ year riverfront celebration with arts, music, food, and boat rides—drawing 5,000+ visitors. People love the scenic river views and family fun; it’s a community highlight. Attracts locals and retirees from Brunswick County.
Shallotte Christmas Parade
Shallotte Christmas Parade (Early December): A 15+ year tradition with floats, bands, and Santa—community holiday spirit. Retirees appreciate the festive gatherings; it’s a family favorite. Attracts families and locals in Shallotte.
View Shallotte homes for sale for retirement near these riverfront festivities.
Leland Festivals & Events
‘Leland in Lights’ returns to Founders Park! When you can stop by and check out the holiday displays.
Leland Under the Lights Car Show (Mid-September): A 10+ year event featuring classic cars, live music, and food at Founders Park. People love the retro vibe and social atmosphere; it’s a fun gathering for retirees with classic cars. Attracts retirees and families from Brunswick County.
Everything You Need To Know About Leland in Lights – NC Eat & Play
Leland Winter Lights Festival (Mid-December): A 5+ year festive tradition with holiday markets, lights, and community events. Retirees enjoy the seasonal spirit; it’s a growing celebration. Attracts locals and families in Leland.
See Leland homes for sale for properties near these growing town events.
Ready to Plan Your Brunswick County Festival Trip?
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