Community Calendar

Black Water Adventure – First Saturday of the month through October 10 AM
This morning, hour and three quarters long cruise goes up the Northeast Cape Fear River to the upper reaches of the black water system of this storied river. Captain Doug Springer will share his extensive knowledge of the history of the area while you take in the flora and fauna along the river banks. We will cruise through the Castle Hayne Aquifer and by the bluffs of the Rose Hill Plantation. Visit our full bar for a freshly brewed cup of coffee or the best Bloody Mary on the river.

This is a great cruise for photographers, birders and nature buffs. Bring your camera to capture the untouched beauty of this early morning adventure. $30. Boarding is 15 minutes prior to boarding.

The Friends of the New Hanover County Arboretum and the New Hanover County Cooperative Extension present the 30th annual Art in the Arboretum Show and Sale this year, inviting art lovers to immerse themselves in a weekend of creativity surrounded by the beauty of our 7-acre arboretum.

The festival runs through the weekend, on Saturday, October 10, and Sunday, October 11, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Explore the art displays, and enjoy food from local food trucks. General admission is $5, with tickets available at the gate. Admission is free for children 12 and under, military members with current ID, and current Friends of the Arboretum members.

Proceeds from this event support the Arboretum's projects and Cooperative Extension programs. A vital part of Extension’s horticulture program, the New Hanover County Arboretum advances horticultural knowledge and environmental stewardship through a diverse collection of trees, shrubs, and other plants. The arboretum serves as a living classroom for all residents, students, and green industry professionals, providing research-based education and practical training with an emphasis on plants adapted to the unique conditions of southeastern North Carolina.

The Friends of the New Hanover County Arboretum and the New Hanover County Cooperative Extension present the 30th annual Art in the Arboretum Show and Sale this year, inviting art lovers to immerse themselves in a weekend of creativity surrounded by the beauty of our 7-acre arboretum.

The festival runs through the weekend, on Saturday, October 10, and Sunday, October 11, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Explore the art displays, and enjoy food from local food trucks. General admission is $5, with tickets available at the gate. Admission is free for children 12 and under, military members with current ID, and current Friends of the Arboretum members.

Proceeds from this event support the Arboretum's projects and Cooperative Extension programs. A vital part of Extension’s horticulture program, the New Hanover County Arboretum advances horticultural knowledge and environmental stewardship through a diverse collection of trees, shrubs, and other plants. The arboretum serves as a living classroom for all residents, students, and green industry professionals, providing research-based education and practical training with an emphasis on plants adapted to the unique conditions of southeastern North Carolina.

Join the knowledgeable guides from Cape Fear Bird Observatory and their partners for a family friendly fun nature walk! Meeting at the Greenfield Lake boathouse (near the tennis courts) for an informational session on the third Saturday of every month, usually beginning at 9:00 AM followed by a narrated 60 minute stroll around the lake looking at interesting birds, plants, mammals, reptiles, and other fascinating wild things. All are welcome! No registration required. Please bring sunscreen, insect repellent, water and comfortable walking shoes.

Music on Market is delighted to welcome back former Music on Market Artistic Director Sharon Miller, who returns to Wilmington as the pianist of The TAM Trio (T3) an accomplished ensemble of violin, cello, and piano based in Richmond, Virginia. Join this eclectic trio as they present Four Centuries, Three Voices, a delightful night of music celebrating beloved and exciting melodies spanning the ages. From classical to tango, themes from favorite movies and modern pop you'll hear "a little bit of everything." Whether you’re reconnecting with Sharon or hearing The TAM Trio (T3) for the first time, you’ll enjoy the artistry of these three outstanding performers.

All Music on Market Concerts are free, open to the public and family friendly
Tickets are not required. Venue Seating is Limited.
Seating is on First-Come, First-Served basis.

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.

Bring the kids (ages 0–8) for a FREE day of fun at the 12th Annual Smart Start Family Festival on Saturday, November 14, from 10am to 1pm at Long Leaf Park. Families will enjoy hands-on activities, live entertainment by the Broccoli Brothers Circus, raffle prizes, and more! Discover local resources and enjoy quality time together in a festive, family-friendly setting.
Questions about participating or sponsoring? Contact Jennifer at 910-815-3731 or jennifer.gallo@newhanoverkids.org.

Join the knowledgeable guides from Cape Fear Bird Observatory and their partners for a family friendly fun nature walk! Meeting at the Greenfield Lake boathouse (near the tennis courts) for an informational session on the third Saturday of every month, usually beginning at 9:00 AM followed by a narrated 60 minute stroll around the lake looking at interesting birds, plants, mammals, reptiles, and other fascinating wild things. All are welcome! No registration required. Please bring sunscreen, insect repellent, water and comfortable walking shoes.

Jennifer Licko and her Celtic Band return to Music on Market for another memorable concert. Jennifer is an acclaimed vocalist and multi-instrumentalist whose expressive voice and exceptional musicianship bring the rich traditions of Celtic music to life. Performing on piano, guitar, and the bodhrán (Irish drum), the East Carolina University graduate draws inspiration from the nearly ten years she spent living in Scotland and Ireland. Celebrate the season with Jennifer and her Celtic band as they share beloved carols, festive favorites and timeless holiday music in a concert filled with the music and spirit of Christmas.

All Music on Market Concerts are free, open to the public and family friendly
Tickets are not required. Venue Seating is Limited.
Seating is on First-Come, First-Served basis.

Join the knowledgeable guides from Cape Fear Bird Observatory and their partners for a family friendly fun nature walk! Meeting at the Greenfield Lake boathouse (near the tennis courts) for an informational session on the third Saturday of every month, usually beginning at 9:00 AM followed by a narrated 60 minute stroll around the lake looking at interesting birds, plants, mammals, reptiles, and other fascinating wild things. All are welcome! No registration required. Please bring sunscreen, insect repellent, water and comfortable walking shoes.