Spirit of the Holidays Cruise
Embark on a magical holiday cruise and soak in the festive spirit of the season. This special event offers a unique way to celebrate the holidays with scenic views and a joyful atmosphere.
What to Expect
Festive holiday cruise experience
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Wilmington and Beaches Convention & Visitors Bureau
Food & Drink
Numerous restaurants are available in Wilmington and on the island beaches, offering fresh seafood, Southern cuisine, and kid-friendly menus. Coffee shops, bars with water views, and craft cocktail spots are also plentiful.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Holiday celebrations, scenic cruises, festive outings
Vibe
Festive, cheerful, scenic
Energy Level
Low
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Parking: Downtown Wilmington has over 1000 metered parking spaces, six parking decks, and two surface lots. City decks on 2nd Street and Market Street offer free parking for the first 30 minutes. On-street meters are free after 6:30 p.m. daily and all day Sunday. Metered parking is $3.00 per hour Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. Handicapped parking is free with a valid placard. One-hour parking is available on some downtown residential streets. Observe all posted signs as some are permit-based only. Information on electric vehicle charging stations can be found on the FAQ page.
- Accessibility: Information regarding accessibility can be found on the FAQ page, specifically in the 'Transportation and Accessibility' section.
- Pets: No pets allowed on beaches from April 1 - Sept. 30 (with specific hours for Carolina and Kure Beaches). Dogs are allowed on leash from Oct. 1 - March 31. Pet-friendly lodging and dining options are available.
Tips & Advice
- Book your cruise tickets in advance, especially during peak holiday season, as these events can be very popular.
- Check the weather forecast and dress in layers for comfort during your cruise, as temperatures can vary on the water.
- Arrive at the departure point early to allow ample time for parking and boarding, ensuring a relaxed start to your holiday experience.
- Consider bringing a camera to capture the festive decorations and scenic views from the water.
- Inquire about any special holiday treats or entertainment that might be offered on board to enhance your festive cruise.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find parking for events in Wilmington?
Downtown Wilmington offers over 1000 metered parking spaces, several parking decks, and surface lots. Some decks offer free parking for the first 30 minutes, and on-street meters are free after 6:30 p.m. and all day Sunday. Handicapped parking is free with a valid placard.
What is the pet policy for the beaches?
From October 1 to March 31, dogs are allowed on the beaches and must be leashed. From April 1 to September 30, dogs are prohibited on Kure and Wrightsville Beaches. Carolina Beach allows dogs before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m. during this period. Owners must always clean up after their pets.
How can I get directions to Wilmington and its beaches?
Major highways like I-40 and US-17 provide access to Wilmington. The Wilmington International Airport (ILM) offers convenient air travel. Specific directions and parking information for the island beaches can be found on their respective pages.
Are there accessible options for visitors?
Information on accessible beaches, hotels, restaurants, and attractions can be found on the FAQ page under 'Transportation and Accessibility.' Beach accessibility equipment and services are available by contacting local parks and recreation departments.
Where can I find information about local dining?
Wilmington and its island beaches boast a wide array of dining options, from fresh seafood and Southern cuisine to casual eateries and coffee shops. It is recommended to confirm hours and make reservations by checking restaurant websites or calling ahead.
More Christmas Events Near Wilmington
More Christmas Events near Wilmington
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.