What's Happening in Wilmington & Carolina Beach

Start the week with live music, ocean breezes and pier views on the quiet north end of the island.

Ricardo Perez's exhibition pairs America 250 reflections with historic Southern foodways — free to view while you tour the museum.

Stroll Front Street, browse the Cotton Exchange and walk the Riverwalk along the Cape Fear River.\n\nPop into local restaurants and coffee shops — a perfect low-key Tuesday.

Step inside one of Wilmington's finest antebellum homes and hear the stories of the family who lived through its most dramatic chapter.

A free after-work gathering with your public radio neighbors — conversation, drinks and community.

Wilmington Performing Arts takes the whole family under the sea — colorful characters, catchy music and plenty of laughs.

Bring a blanket for bonfires, music and pumpkins by the sea. A great date night or family outing.

Constant Readers, this one's for you — a free trivia night devoted to the master of horror.

Craft beer, fine wines, fresh seafood and live cooking kick off Lighthouse festival weekend — proceeds benefit the Carousel Child Advocacy Center.

Close the work week with live music and ocean views on the north end.

A breathtaking music-and-dance celebration of Día de los Muertos ($25–$45).

More than 150 vendors pour craft beer, wine and THC beverages, with live music and food trucks on the riverfront. Tickets are limited — proceeds benefit the Carousel Child Advocacy Center.

A magical, costume-friendly morning of stories by the ocean for little ones.

Runners, walkers and families take to the beach for this annual island road race.

A free evening of chamber music spanning four centuries and countless styles.

Local produce, baked goods and crafts along the river — grab breakfast and support local growers.

Last chance to catch the under-the-sea adventure before it swims away.

October is NC Oyster Month — follow the trail to fresh, local oysters at island restaurants and raw bars.

Close out the week with a beach walk, the Basin Trail or an afternoon with the sharks and otters at the aquarium.