The leaves may be falling in the mountains but the prices are falling on the North Carolina coast. Affordable rates are in season and there’s still plenty of warm weather and outdoor festivals to enjoy in Wilmington, North Carolina’s Historic River District, and the Island Beaches of Carolina, Kure and Wrightsville.
The weekend of October 7 to 9 boasts two signature fall festivals: the Pleasure Island Seafood, Blues & Jazz Festival (with headliner Jimmie Vaughan) in Kure Beach, and the 33rd annual Wilmington Riverfest celebration in historic Wilmington.
With the Cape Fear River as its focal point, Riverfest celebrates the river’s heritage, culture, and natural beauty.
Riverfest fun begins on Friday, October 7 with the arrival of a pirate ship and a Beer Garden street dance featuring live music. On Saturday and Sunday, a street fair winds its way through Downtown Wilmington.
The area's rich heritage is demonstrated by more than 200 vendors selling art and handmade crafts and over 30 food vendors serving festival edibles. Special exhibits will be on display and the USCG Cutter Diligence will offer free tours. Continuous live entertainment is another hallmark of Riverfest.
If you agree that great music, plus good food, plus a trip to the beach equals a perfect fall weekend, make plans to attend this year’s Pleasure Island Seafood, Blues & Jazz Festival on October 8 and 9.
Set against a scenic backdrop of the Cape Fear River, the music, coastal cuisine, and natural beauty promises to transcend the cares of everyday life. While grooving to live music, attendees can also enjoy a wine tasting and savory seafood prepared by area restaurants. A Fine Arts Plaza will host arts and crafts vendors and the festival’s Kidz Zone features magicians, juggling acts, rock climbing wall, inflatable amusements, face painting, and more.
For more information about Riverfest visit www.wilmingtonriverfest.com and for featured events and experiences from the river to the sea, visit www.gocapefearcoast.com.
For more information about top events in North Carolina take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in North Carolina.