The Wilmington area boasts tons of great events for Memorial Day weekend. It's a great opportunity for families to get out and take advantage of the area's great historic attractions and warming temperatures.
The presence of the USS North Carolina battleship across the river from Downtown Wilmington is a constant reminder of the sacrifice made by members of the U.S. military. That tops the list of things to see on Memorial Day in the city, but there are other exciting options:
The top Memorial Day event takes place on the deck of the historic USS North Carolina. The 5 p.m. ceremony is held to remember all who have served the country and features great military pageantry.
Highlighting the proceedings are a 21-gun salute by a Marine Corps Honor Guard, an all-service Color Guard, and the tossing of a memorial wreath into the water. Admission is free for people to board the battleship after 4 p.m. as well.
Memorial Day Beach Trip
Many in Wilmington kick off beach season with Memorial Day, and there are three area beaches that offer something for everyone. Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, and Wrightsville Beach each boast their own unique setting and an array of activities.
Carolina Beach features a historic boardwalk with amusement rides. You can't go wrong choosing any of these beaches and setting up for a picnic and a fun day in the sun.
Related content: Your Go-To Guide to Wilmington Beaches
Memorial Day weekend is cause for celebration at nearby Bald Head Island. There are tons of water activities that anyone in the family can enjoy like paddleboarding, kayaking, and surfing.
Bald Head Island also has lessons available for things like crabbing and cast netting. Kids love the variety of animals they can get close to at the Bald Head Island Conservancy as well.
Related content: Things to Do on Bald Head Island
Tour Old Wilmington offers a look back to the Victorian Era with a trip around historic buildings downtown. People get an idea what the city was like during the Civil War and learn a great deal about the customs of the day.
Those on the tour will also hear sea tales and pieces of folklore from Old Wilmington. The tour departs from the foot of Market and Water Streets and costs $12 for everyone 13 and older.
Wrightsville Beach Farmers' Market
The Wrightsville Beach Farmers' Market is known as the area's best and is open every Monday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. with a tremendous selection of local produce and vendors.
The farmers market also features several one-of-a-kind crafts dealers. Pairing a trip to the farmers market along with a day at Wrightsville Beach could be the perfect way to spend Memorial Day!
Whatever you do on Memorial Day in Wilmington, make it a day to remember the people who have protected our freedoms. There is plenty to do to honor their memory while also enjoying family!
For more upcoming events in Wilmington, register on 910area and connect to everything going on in the Wilmington and Fayetteville area.
Cover photo courtesy of PxHere
