Community Calendar

History Buffs Dream Cruise!
Set sail through centuries of history on this immersive cruise led by acclaimed historian Dr. Chris Fonvielle. Each month, Dr. Fonvielle explores a different era of Wilmington and Cape Fear’s fascinating past — from early European exploration to the rise of the port city, to the dramatic battles and blockades of the Civil War. A gifted storyteller and local expert, Dr. Fonvielle brings depth, detail, and personality to every tale, all while cruising the scenic Cape Fear River.

Whether you are a lifelong history buff or just curious about the forces that shaped this region, this is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to learn while enjoying a relaxing, scenic cruise. Topics rotate monthly, so every trip offers a new perspective on Wilmington’s place in American history. Call our office for monthly topics.

Our boat, the Wilmington is a 49 passenger motor catamaran with a full bar with refreshments for all ages and a restroom on board. We offer 360 degree views of .our historic riverfront and the beauty of the river. This is a 90 minute cruise $45. Boarding is 15 minutes prior to departure.

Whether you’re a lifelong history buff or just curious about the forces that shaped this region, this is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to learn while enjoying a relaxing, scenic cruise. Topics rotate monthly, so every trip offers a new perspective on Wilmington’s place in American history. For the month of July, Dr. Fonvielle, Jr., Professor Emeritus in the Dept. of History at UNCW, will discuss the Battle at Fort Fisher.

Union blockading ships prowled the coast searching for Confederate commerce vessels attempting to smuggle supplies into the Cape Fear River, but Wilmington eluded wartime fighting for 3 ½ years. All that changed when Federal forces attacked Fort Fisher guarding New Inlet twenty miles downriver from Wilmington. Dr. Fonvielle will talk about the battles of Fort Fisher, the two largest Union naval bombardments and combined operations of the Civil War and their military operations to capture the city, control of the Cape Fear River and Wilmington’s key rail lines. Revealing the great importance of Wilmington to the Confederate war effort, General Robert E. Lee warned: “If Wilmington falls, I cannot maintain my army.” The survival of Confederacy by 1864 depended upon the survival of Wilmington remaining open to trade with the outside world. Dr. Fonvielle will also discuss the role United States Colored Troops played in the Wilmington Campaign.

This is an hour and forty five minute cruise, $45. Boarding is 15 minutes prior to departure.

Explore the waters on a custom pontoon boat around Masonboro Island and Wrightsville Beach. Captained by a naturalist ,this one hour trip provides a combination of natural history and local flora and fauna ecology

Join the folks at Fermental as we celebrate the arrival of February with our weekly SUNDAY JAZZ JAM, hosted by local artist, Jay Killman.

5pm - 8pm

With a solid foundation of house musicians including Killman, Jon Hill, and Gabrielle Sánchez, this recurring renaissance of jazz welcomes all level of performers: students, professionals, and beginners.

Bring your instrument or bring your ear and enjoy a weekly session of jazz artists and jazz enthusiasts.

Family friendly. Pet friendly.
FREE parking available throughout the Cargo District

More info: 910.821.0362

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Host Jay Killman is a professional musician performing with a wide array of acts including jazz ensembles, singer songwriters, hip hop groups, and fusion bands. He is also an avid composer, arranger and teacher. He is currently an adjunct professor at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. www.jaykillmanmusic.com

Explore the waters on a custom pontoon boat around Masonboro Island and Wrightsville Beach. Captained by a naturalist ,this one hour trip provides a combination of natural history and local flora and fauna ecology

Explore the waters on a custom pontoon boat around Masonboro Island and Wrightsville Beach. Captained by a naturalist ,this one hour trip provides a combination of natural history and local flora and fauna ecology

Under the shade of the Magnolias and Oaks of Historic Poplar Grove is one of Wilmington’s longest running outdoor markets, now in its 18th year. Stroll the grounds of a pre-revolutionary war site, visit with the Artists of the Grove or sign up for workshops, order a specialty coffee or icy cold lemonade and shop for farm fresh fruits, vegetables, plants, flowers, food and beverages of all types as well as artisan crafted goods. We are family and dog friendly with loads of free parking and never a fee for the Wednesday market. The 1850’s manor house is open for touring as are The Shoppes at Poplar Grove, home to Grumpy Grandpa’s Coffee, Queen Esther Herbal Teas and The Hive on the Hill mercantile and gift shop. The market runs every Wednesday from 9-1 from May 20th until August 26th for the 2026 season. Poplar Grove is a non-profit organization dedicated to Education, Conservation and Preservation. Please visit our website at www.poplargrove.org to learn more or follow us on Facebook at farmersmarketpoplargrove or poplar_grove on Instagram to join in our journey.

Explore the waters on a custom pontoon boat around Masonboro Island and Wrightsville Beach. Captained by a naturalist ,this one hour trip provides a combination of natural history and local flora and fauna ecology

Explore the waters on a custom pontoon boat around Masonboro Island and Wrightsville Beach. Captained by a naturalist ,this one hour trip provides a combination of natural history and local flora and fauna ecology

Sunset Cruise with Live Music every Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday through October 25

Looking for a fun way to end your fun day in Wilmington? Look no further! Come aboard The “Wilmington”, our comfortable 49 passenger motor catamaran, for a Sunset Cruise on the Cape Fear River. Our full bar offers refreshments and snacks for all ages.

Whether you are looking for a special setting for a date night or looking to enjoy some quality time with family and friends, our Sunset Cruise is the perfect choice for an evening activity on the Cape Fear River.

This is a one-of-a-kind music venue in Wilmington and this is one of our most popular excursions, so be sure to book early! This is a 90 minute cruise $40. Boarding 15 minutes prior. Check our Tour Calendar for the featured musicians for each cruise.