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.

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.

This cruise is available monthly on the first Saturday through October (excluding July 4th)

This morning, 90 minute 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. The Northeast Cape Fear River is still largely unpopulated and looks much as it did when Wilmington was colonized in the late 1600s. We will cruise through the Castle Hayne Aquifer and by the bluffs of the Rose Hill Plantation.

This excursion is comfortable and memorable on our 49 passenger catamaran with 360 degree views. Photographers, birders, and nature buffs love the variety of wildlife and native plants that adorn the river banks. You may possibly see osprey, alligators, sea turtles, and river otters, just to name a few. Visit our full bar for a freshly brewed cup of coffee or for the best Bloody Mary on the river.

This is a 90 minute cruise $30. Boarding 15 minutes prior to departure.

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.

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.

This cruise is available monthly on the first Saturday through October (excluding July 4th)

This morning, 90 minute 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. The Northeast Cape Fear River is still largely unpopulated and looks much as it did when Wilmington was colonized in the late 1600s. We will cruise through the Castle Hayne Aquifer and by the bluffs of the Rose Hill Plantation.

This excursion is comfortable and memorable on our 49 passenger catamaran with 360 degree views. Photographers, birders, and nature buffs love the variety of wildlife and native plants that adorn the river banks. You may possibly see osprey, alligators, sea turtles, and river otters, just to name a few. Visit our full bar for a freshly brewed cup of coffee or for the best Bloody Mary on the river.

This is a 90 minute cruise $30. Boarding 15 minutes prior to departure.

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.

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.

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.

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.