Upcoming events
A celebration honoring eastern North Carolina's historical contributions to American independence.
Events across southeastern North Carolina will include reenactments, living history camps, cultural exhibits, and educational experiences, with Moores Creek National Battlefield serving as a central site.
The Civil War, Revolutionary War, Local Folklore and More Come Alive with Dr. Chris Fonvielle
This Wilmington Water Tours cruise is a 90-minute, in-depth presentation about an era in the history of Wilmington from the Revolutionary War, the Civil War and local Folklore. Dr. Chris Fonville will take you through a journey with fascinating facts, delightful anecdotes and intriguing human-interest stories of early Wilmingtonians. Wilmington and the Lower Cape Fear Region played a pivotal role in each of these eras, and you will get to travel through time on this voyage which will bring history to life.
Tours are held on the following dates from 10:00 to 11:30 each day:
April 26,
May 24,
June 21,
July 26,
August 23,
September 20,
October 25.
Ticket Information: https://wilmingtonwatertours.net/cruises/speciality-cruises/history-comes-alive-with-dr-chris-fonvielle/
Location: 212 South Water Street, Wilmington, NC 28401
Contact:info@wilmingtonwt.com
Sloop Point House 300th Anniversary
The Pender County Historical Society is sponsoring a tour of the 1736 Sloop Point House in Hampstead on May 9. It was built by the father of several Revolutionary era Patriot leaders, Brigadier General John Ashe, Governor Samuel Ashe. Their sister Rebecca married Continental Brig. General James Moore. The Ashes stoked the flames of revolution, fought in the war, and supplied state leaders for generations.
It is one of the two oldest buildings in North Carolina and this year is the 300th anniversary of the house. It is an incredibly rare opportunity to visit this private home which was last opened to the public in 2007.
Tickets: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/sloop-point-house-tour
Outlander In The Cape Fear Aboard Wilmington Water Tours
Come aboard Wilmington Water Tours for a presentation of “Outlander in the Cape Fear” with Hunter Ingram, Asst. Dir. at Burgwin-Wright Museum. In conjunction with America 250 celebrations, we are sharing “Burgwin-Wright Presents…Outlander in the Cape Fear”. Based on the books and TV series by Diana Gabaldon, Hunter will share how Wilmington played a role in this beloved series–all while cruising the Cape Fear River. Our full bar offers snacks and refreshments for all ages. This is one of our last cruises for Outlander, be sure to jump aboard.
Tours available on May 10 at 10:00 and 12:00. Tickets are available for purchase at the link below!
Tickets: https://wilmingtonwatertours.net/outlander-in-the-cape-fear/
Location: 212 South Water Street, Wilmington, NC 28401
Contact: diane@wilmingtonwt.com
Summer Artillery Day
A living history camp for displays and demonstrations as well as a lineup of artillery pieces for firing demonstrations by costumed staff and re-enactors.
Location: Fort Fisher State Historic Site; 1610 S. Fort Fisher Blvd., Kure Beach, NC 28449
Contact: cameron.kinard@dncr.nc.gov, 910-251-7347
"Colonial Wilmington & The Revolution" Walking Tour
Join the Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens for its thrilling "Colonial Wilmington & The Revolution" walking tour on March 13, June 12, September 11 and December 11!
The walking tour will invite guests to learn about how the American Revolution swept across Wilmington in the 1770s by visiting places important to the town's earliest days, including the former jail, courthouse and market sites. Get a unique perspective on what Wilmington would have looked on the eve of the Revolution, just in time for the 250th anniversary of America's independence!
America 250: Independence Day "When Are We US?" Pop-Up Exhibit
Leading up to the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence, Latimer House transforms its 1st floor with the pop-up exhibit, "When Are We US?" The exhibit explores the various ways that the United States has been shaped by both the forces of history and the struggles for civil rights and citizenship.
Location: Latimer House; 126 S. 3rd Street, Wilmington, NC 28401
Contact: executive.director@latimerhouse.org, 910-508-1038
Ticket Details: www.latimerhouse.org
Annual Onslow County Park and Recreation - FREEDOM FESTIVAL
Annual Onslow County Freedom Festival - Independence Day Celebration - Musical Entertainment, Vendors, Food Trucks, Children's Activities and More!
Location: Onslow Pines Park; 1244 Onslow Pines Road, Jacksonville, NC 28540
Contact: LaQuesha_Cadwallader@onslowcountync.gov, 910-347-5332
Website: https://www.onslowcountync.gov/2268/Freedom-Festival
"Outlander in the Cape Fear" Walking Tour
Come celebrate love and local history.
The walking tour will invite guests to walk in the footsteps of Claire and Jamie Fraser from the global phenomenon book and Starz TV series, "Outlander." Using the North Carolina history that is laced into the romance series, guests will be able to learn about the Colonial Wilmington that real Scottish Highlanders like Claire and Jamie found when they arrived in America in the 1770s.
The walking tour will depart from the Burgwin-Wright House.
"Colonial Wilmington & The Revolution" Walking Tour
Join the Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens for its thrilling "Colonial Wilmington & The Revolution" walking tour on March 13, June 12, September 11 and December 11!
The walking tour will invite guests to learn about how the American Revolution swept across Wilmington in the 1770s by visiting places important to the town's earliest days, including the former jail, courthouse and market sites. Get a unique perspective on what Wilmington would have looked on the eve of the Revolution, just in time for the 250th anniversary of America's independence!
Stories of the Revolution: People and Places of Pender County
American Revolution stories of people and places of Pender County located at the Pender County Museum.
Don't Be Blue - We have lots of indigo for you
Don’t be blue! Explore an interactive T-shirt dying activity and learn the history of natural indigo dye.
"Outlander in the Cape Fear" Walking Tour
Come celebrate love and local history.
The walking tour will invite guests to walk in the footsteps of Claire and Jamie Fraser from the global phenomenon book and Starz TV series, "Outlander." Using the North Carolina history that is laced into the romance series, guests will be able to learn about the Colonial Wilmington that real Scottish Highlanders like Claire and Jamie found when they arrived in America in the 1770s.
The walking tour will depart from the Burgwin-Wright House.
Tabor City Christmas Parade through the Lights
The Tabor City Christmas Parade Through the Lights is a beloved holiday tradition that brings joy and sparkle to downtown each December. Beginning at 6:00 PM on the first Thursday of December, the parade features illuminated floats, marching bands, and a full display of community spirit in its festive display. As the procession winds through town, it concludes with a magical Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony near the Tabor City Public Library and Santa greeting children from his porch at the Santa House. In 2026, the parade will take on added significance as it joyfully celebrates America's 250th birthday, blending patriotic pride with holiday cheer. Organized by the Tabor City Visitors Center, this event captures the heart of "Twinkle Town" and invites all to celebrate the season—and the nation’s milestone—with light, laughter, and love.
Location: Downtown Tabor City, NC 28463
Contact: promotions@taborcity.org, 910-653-4141
"Colonial Wilmington & The Revolution" Walking Tour
Join the Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens for its thrilling "Colonial Wilmington & The Revolution" walking tour on March 13, June 12, September 11 and December 11!
The walking tour will invite guests to learn about how the American Revolution swept across Wilmington in the 1770s by visiting places important to the town's earliest days, including the former jail, courthouse and market sites. Get a unique perspective on what Wilmington would have looked on the eve of the Revolution, just in time for the 250th anniversary of America's independence!
"Outlander in the Cape Fear" Walking Tour
Come celebrate love and local history.
The walking tour will invite guests to walk in the footsteps of Claire and Jamie Fraser from the global phenomenon book and Starz TV series, "Outlander." Using the North Carolina history that is laced into the romance series, guests will be able to learn about the Colonial Wilmington that real Scottish Highlanders like Claire and Jamie found when they arrived in America in the 1770s.
The walking tour will depart from the Burgwin-Wright House.
Roseboro Bloomfest
The second biggest festival in Sampson County, filled with food trucks and street vendors as a means to engage community members and visitors. The committee members will coordinate activities to be located at the Convention and Visitors Bureau tent that highlight the A250 efforts.
Location: 101 NW Railroad Street, Roseboro, NC 28328
Contact: tylerwise.tor@gmail.com, 910-525-4121
Website: https://www.roseboronc.com/bloomfest
Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea: Sailors and Tar Workers in the 18th Century
Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea: Sailors and Tar Workers in the 18th Century. This program will provide a comprehensive view of maritime history along the Cape Fear, the history of naval stores production along the Cape Fear, and eighteenth-century trades that are relevant to maritime history and sailing. It will contextualize the role of the naval stores industry in Brunswick's development as a major colonial port.
Location: Brunswicktown/Fort Anderson State Historic Site; 8884 St. Phillips Rd SE, Winnabow, NC 28479
Contact: makayla.coley@dncr.nc.gov, 910-371-6613
Website: https://historicsites.nc.gov/all-sites/brunswick-town-fort-anderson
Warbirds Over Wilmington
Celebrate Wilmington, North Carolina’s role as America’s first World War II heritage city with a display of historic wartime aircraft. Several historic planes will be on display including:
-TBM Avenger Navy Torpedo Bomber (Pres GW Bush flew same type WWII)
-SNJ Navy Training aircraft
-Japanese Fuji T-34
-Japanese Navy A6M Zero - replica flew in film "Tora Tora Tora"
Location: Wilmington International Airport; Next to National Guard Hangars
Contact: louis.j.digiusto@gmail.com, 203-561-7409
Wilmington Ladies Tea Walk-251st anniversary of the Wilmington Tea Party
The Burgwin-Wright House, the oldest and largest historic site in Wilmington, is partnering with the Wilmington Ladies Tea Walk chapter to commemorate the 251st anniversary of the Wilmington Tea Party. Never heard of it? That's OK! The lesser known but still influential moment in history was one of the last local acts of resistance against the Crown in the Cape Fear prior to the start of the American Revolution in the spring of 1775.
At the event, guests will be able to explore the Burgwin-Wright House Gardens, sip on an exclusive new commemorative tea blend, hear brief words from a few local historic experts and organizations, and then join a procession to the riverfront where tea will be burned in solidarity with this act of revolution on the eve of war.
Sampson County Ag Day
Biennial event to celebrate and educate about agriculture, the #1 industry of Sampson County. This event offers educational booths and activities for all ages, entertainment, and demonstrations. Live music and food trucks are on site throughout the event.
Location: Sampson Community College; 1801 Sunset Ave, Clinton, NC 28328
Contact: eileen_coite@ncsu.edu, 919-222-1525
An 18th Century Garden
Open House and Garden Tour at the Historic Pelletier House and Wantland Spring hosted by the Onslow County Master Gardeners and Cooperative Extension.
Location: Historic Pelletier House; 100 Old Bridge St, Jacksonville, NC 28540
Contact: Lisa_Whitman-Grice@onslowcountync.gov, 910-324-5008 OR 910-455-5873
Honoring America's Forgotten Patriots
“On March 20, 2026, the Stamp Defiance Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution will host a public America 250 Historical Marker dedication at USS North Carolina's Battleship Park, honoring America’s Forgotten Patriots of the Revolutionary War. This event recognizes the service of everyday diverse individuals whose contributions helped shape our nation and reflects our community’s commitment to preserving and sharing our history. We are excited the NC 250 America Team and Tryon Palace Fife and Drum Corp will be joining us among others.” —Stamp Defiance Chapter, NSDAR
Location: USS North Carolina Battleship Park; 191 USS North Carolina Rd, Wilmington, NC 28401
Contact: betsy.knowles@theartworks.co, 910-352-1822
"Colonial Wilmington & The Revolution" Walking Tour
Join the Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens for its thrilling "Colonial Wilmington & The Revolution" walking tour on March 13, June 12, September 11 and December 11!
The walking tour will invite guests to learn about how the American Revolution swept across Wilmington in the 1770s by visiting places important to the town's earliest days, including the former jail, courthouse and market sites. Get a unique perspective on what Wilmington would have looked on the eve of the Revolution, just in time for the 250th anniversary of America's independence!
Outlander in the Cape Fear: River Cruises
Join Wilmington Water Tours and Hunter Ingram to hear about "Outlander in The Cape Fear", the global phenomenon book and TV series and how it relates to North Carolina History that is laced into the series. Guests will learn about the Colonial Wilmington that real Scottish Highlanders like Claire and Jamie found when they arrived in America in the 1770s. This is a 90-minute cruise, with tickets priced $45 for adults, $25 for children. Tickets may be reserved online or over phone. Both contacts are listed below.
Location: Wilmington Water Tours; 212 S Water St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Contact: info@wilmingtonwt@gmail.com, 910-338-3134
Website/Tickets: https://wilmingtonwatertours.net
MOORE’S CREEK ANTHOLOGY
Step back in time and examine how war affected those living here during our country’s Revolution. Hear their stories. Feel their struggles. Reflect on their resilience.
Then ask yourself — what has changed since that pivotal time in our history?
As Ms. Redmond reminds us:
“Poetry is the mouth that speaks
when all other mouths are silent.”
✨ This event is FREE and open to the public.
Join us for an evening of history, reflection, and powerful storytelling — where the past speaks, and we listen.
Diana Gabaldon Book Signing Event at Lucas Farm
A special book signing event at Lucas Farm, offering fans another opportunity to meet Diana Gabaldon in a scenic and historic rural setting. One person and one book per ticket.
Semper Fidelis: A Community Wide Celebration of America 250 in Onslow County
Onslow County Kicks Off the America 250 Celebration!
The year 2026 marks America's 250th anniversary, and Onslow County is proud to join the national commemoration with a year-long celebration that honors our past, present, and future.
Our local commemoration is titled: Semper Fidelis: A Community Wide Celebration. Why "Semper Fidelis"? This historically significant motto was the family motto of Arthur Onslow (for whom our county is named) and, coincidentally, is also the motto of the U.S. Marine Corps—a bond central to our identity since 1941.
Throughout 2026, we will explore Onslow County's role in the nation's early struggle for Independence and create a meaningful connection to our contemporary community.
Guided Battlefield Tour with Diana Gabaldon & Park Ranger
Moores Creek National Battlefield in Currie
An Evening with Diana Gabaldon
An Evening with Diana Gabaldon at the historic Penderlea Auditorium. This intimate program will feature engaging conversation, storytelling, and insights from the bestselling author whose work has brought colonial America to life for millions of readers. The evening includes an opportunity for a backstage meet-and-greet, giving fans the chance to meet Ms. Gabaldon in person and take photos.
Laser Light Shows—Ingram Planetarium
Visit the Ingram Planetarium on February 27 and 28, 2026 from 6 to 8 pm for the usual themed laser light shows. On Friday at 6 pm, experience Michael Jackson’s greatest hits featuring lasers projected onto the planetarium dome, harmonizing to the music! Follow this up with an exciting journey through The Beatles’ Abbey Road at 7 pm! Then, on Saturday February 28 at 7 pm, experience Ingram Planetarium’s Love Under the Lights show, where great Valentine’s Day-themed hits like Led Zeppelin’s “Whole Lotta Love,” U2’s “With or Without You,” and Santana and Rob Thomas’s “Smooth.”
Expect these events to be going on Friday and Saturday evenings throughout the month of February. Details about specific event times and directions on how to reserve tickets can be found here:
Celebration of 250 Years of Freedom
A visit to the Duplin County Veterans Memorial Museum is a reminder that history lives not only in books—but in the lives of those who served and the communities that remember them.
Stories of the Revolution: People and Places of Pender County
American Revolution stories of people and places of Pender County located at the Pender County Museum.
250th Commemoration of the battle at moores creek bridge on feb. 26-28, 2026.
The 250th anniversary of the Battle of Moores Creek Bridge will be commemorated with a week-long series of events from February 21 to 28, 2026, in Currie, North Carolina. This celebration is part of the broader North Carolina First in Freedom Festival (NCFIFF), which honors America's 250th anniversary by highlighting the state's historical contributions through various cultural and educational activities.
Education Day at moores creek bridge on feb. 26, 2026.
The 250th anniversary of the Battle of Moores Creek Bridge will be commemorated with a week-long series of events from February 21 to 28, 2026, in Currie, North Carolina. This celebration is part of the broader North Carolina First in Freedom Festival (NCFIFF), which honors America's 250th anniversary by highlighting the state's historical contributions through various cultural and educational activities.
The Battle of Moores Creek Bridge: Presented by Dr Chris E. Fonvielle Jr.
Pender County Library in Burgaw will host Dr. Chris E. Fonvielle Jr. on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 6 p.m. for a talk on the Battle of Moores Creek Bridge, presented in commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the battle and of the founding of the United States.
Location: Pender County Library; 103 S Cowan Street, Burgaw, NC 28425
North Carolina's Black Patriots of the American Revolution
Join us aboard the Battleship NORTH CAROLINA for a free educational experience! Museum Educator Trevor Freeman will explore the lives, service, and enduring legacy of Black soldiers from North Carolina who fought for American independence. The presentation will spotlight individuals with personal connections to the Wilmington area, bringing their stories to life.
Freedom’s Road: the refugee crisis of 1865 in the lower cape fear
Freedom’s Road: the refugee crisis of 1865 in the lower cape fear
A talk by site manager, Jim Mckee.
A Colonial Faire at Harmony Hall
Late 18th Century home of Col. James Richardson and family. Like, share, follow, visit us as we work to keep our nation's history alive for future generations!
An opening ceremony and presentation by the Le Marquis de Lafayette Chapter from the North Carolina Society Sons of the American Revolution on "The Race to Wilmington—Bladen County and the Pathway to Moore’s Creek" 1:00 at the main house
Laser Light Shows—Ingram Planetarium
Visit the Ingram Planetarium in February for themed laser light shows!
Expect these events to be going on Friday and Saturday evenings throughout the month of February. Details about specific event times and directions on how to reserve tickets can be found here:
Dancing in Defiance: A Night of Merriment and Rebellion
Step Back into 1766 - The Friends of BTFA Present- Dancing in Defiance: A Night of Merriment and Rebellion
The Friends of Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson cordially invite you to Dancing in Defiance: A Night of Merriment and Rebellion. Join us on February 21, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, for an unforgettable evening where history comes to life.
This is an immersive experience. You will march to the ruins of Royal Governor Tryon’s house, retracing the steps of the historic Stamp Act resistance. Enjoy live Colonial Music & Dancing in a stunning historical setting.
This is a ticketed event with limited capacity, and all registrations must be completed by February 6. Adults: $30, Youth (Ages 12–18): $15. Please note: This event is curated for an adult and teenage audience and is not suitable for children under 12.
To see other events or buy tickets, see: https://friends-of-brunswick-townfort-anderson.square.sit...
Sightseeing Tours
Cape Fear Riverboats is excited to announce February Sightseeing Tours for 2026 in support of the North Carolina First in Freedom Festival. For over 35 years, Cape Fear Riverboats has operated captain-narrated Sightseeing & Sunset Tours from downtown Wilmington which is TripAdvisors' Top Destination on the Rise for 2024. Daily tours onboard our current vessels, Henrietta and Osprey, highlight the area's history, legends, and charm, weaving over 400 years of history from the area's founding by English settlers all the way to modern times.
Black History Carnival
Come celebrate Black history with us at our carnival filled with music, food, games, and more!
Colonial Topsail kicks off First in Freedom Festival with Colonial Topsail
Celebrating America's 250 years, the Historical Society of Topsail Island and the Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism will host Colonial Topsail at the Historic Assembly Building, 720 Channel Blvd.
Visit https://topsailhistoricalsociety.org/ for more information.
Visit Colonial Topsail
The Historical Society of Topsail Island will kick off the nation’s 250th birthday celebration with a day of activities designed to recreate life during colonial times in North Carolina. The event, held inside and outside of the Historic Assembly Building, will feature colonial food and drink, performances, live exhibitions, speakers, and hands on children’s activities.