★ Tonight in Port City ★
TONIGHT
FRIDAY · MAY 1
77 Events · Local Bars & Live Music · Food & Drink Events · Theater & Performing Arts · Family-Friendly
Friday · May 1
Concerts 1
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Marlon Funaki: Half Moon Tour w/ The Kilans
Marlon Funaki brings the Half Moon Tour to Bowstring's Soda Pop District venue with The Kilans opening. A great early-summer indie show in one of Wilmington's best mid-size live music rooms.
Theater & Performing Arts 2
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Disaster!
Panache Theatrical Productions presents this 70s disco-musical comedy disaster movie parody. Final weekend of the run (closes May 3). All your favorite disco hits, all the cheesy disaster tropes — pure fun.
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The Varsity Line (Opening Night)
Opera House Theatre Company & Twinkle Doon present the world premiere run of The Varsity Line. Opening night of a 9-day run through May 9. Don't miss your chance to catch a brand new piece of Wilmington theater.
Comedy & Magic 1
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Dan Mintz (Voice of Tina Belcher)
Yes, THAT Dan Mintz — the deadpan voice of Tina Belcher on Bob's Burgers — bringing his uniquely flat, hilarious stand-up to Dead Crow. Two shows, special event status. Will sell out.
Local Bars & Live Music 13
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Live Music: The Ghosts of Liberty
The Ghosts of Liberty bring their sound to Mad Mole's Wrightsville Beach-adjacent taproom. A great early-evening show to kick off the weekend close to the beach.
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Delia & Friends — Sunset Live Music Series
Season opener of Marina Grill's Sunset Live Music Series at The Boatyard. Delia & Friends play waterfront vibes in the Marina District. Free, dog-friendly, BYO chair — golden hour at its best.
Bring your own chairs
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Free Concert Friday: The Chain (Fleetwood Mac Tribute)
The Chain delivers a faithful tribute to Fleetwood Mac on the Eagle's Dare patio. Free Concert Fridays are a Brooklyn Arts District staple — bring friends, grab a craft cocktail, sing every word.
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John Hussman Trio
Sunset jazz on the rooftop with the John Hussman Trio. Best open-air views in downtown Wilmington — historic harbor on one side, downtown skyline on the other. Cocktails and pies in the sky.
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Later Gator Band
Later Gator Band brings live music to Leland's premier taproom and bottle shop. Some of the best craft beer and wine in Brunswick County paired with a chill Friday night vibe.
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Live Music Friday
Hi-Wire's weekly free live music series in their Brooklyn Arts District taproom. Pet-friendly, casual, always a fun pre-dinner stop.
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Stone Street Band
Classic rock band Stone Street takes the Outer Dunes stage in Porters Neck. $4 off 4-packs all night, Wheelz Pizza on site 5-9pm. Beer garden + fire pits + live music — Friday done right.
$4 off 4-packs, Wheelz Pizza 5-9pm
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Friday Night Fight Riffs: May Edition
Wilmington's most eclectic secret spot brings back Friday Night Fight Riffs — a high-energy live music showcase in the Cargo District's grand bohemian hideout. Tacos, hookah, and original sound.
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Motion Made Jazz Trio
Part of Fermental's Super Jazz Weekend. Motion Made Jazz Trio kicks off three days of jazz with a smooth Friday night set in the beer garden. Family friendly, pet friendly, free parking.
Super Jazz Weekend
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Taylor Lee Trio with Benny Hill
World-class local bassist Taylor Lee jams from 7-8pm, then saxophonist Benny Hill sits in for the second set at 8pm. Smash N' Dash food truck on site from 5pm. Under-the-bridge taproom vibes.
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Wheelhouse Band
Wheelhouse Band plays Seven Mile Post in Ogden — a midtown neighborhood staple with a relaxed atmosphere and friendly crowd. The kind of low-key Friday night that feels like home.
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Brown Dirt Cowboys
Brown Dirt Cowboys play their original Wilmington music plus favorites from 1923 to 2023 on SeaWitch's outdoor stage. Carolina Beach's #1 entertainment venue, no cover, classic tiki vibes.
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Time Sawyer
Folk-Americana band Time Sawyer brings their road-tested sound to Ted's listening room under the bridge. Ages 10 and up. An intimate, story-driven evening — the kind Ted's was built for.
Family-Friendly 1
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UNCW Creative Writing Department Reading
UNCW Creative Writing Department brings student and faculty readings to Fermental's beer garden. A casual, laid-back literary night with craft beer, free parking, and outdoor seating.
Saturday · May 2
Concerts 2
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Everclear at Bowstring w/ Echostone
90s alt-rock legends Everclear bring 'Santa Monica' and a catalog full of hits to Bowstring's Soda Pop District venue. Echostone opens. A nostalgic, full-volume Saturday night.
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Gareth Pearson
Welsh fingerstyle guitar virtuoso Gareth Pearson is SOLD OUT at Ted's. If you have a ticket, you're seeing one of the best acoustic guitarists alive — period. Listening room rules apply.
SOLD OUT
Theater & Performing Arts 2
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Disaster!
Panache Theatrical Productions' disco-musical disaster comedy continues through the weekend. Final shows of the run — perfect cheesy escapism with a killer 70s soundtrack.
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The Varsity Line
Opera House Theatre Company & Twinkle Doon present The Varsity Line — Saturday performance of this brand new world premiere production at Wilmington's historic theater.
Comedy & Magic 3
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TRANSCEND: An Alt Trans Drag Show Experience
An alternative trans drag show experience at the Barzarre — bohemian vibes, fringe performance, and inclusive celebration in the Cargo District. Wilmington's most eclectic secret spot at its best.
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Ali Siddiq — The Custom Fit Tour
Comedy Central headliner and viral storytelling phenomenon Ali Siddiq brings The Custom Fit Tour to the Wilson Center for two showtimes. One of the most acclaimed touring comics working today — don't miss this.
Two showtimes
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Dan Mintz (Voice of Tina Belcher)
Second night of Dan Mintz at Dead Crow. The Bob's Burgers voice of Tina serves up his signature deadpan stand-up — two shows, both will move fast.
Local Bars & Live Music 10
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Sips & Songs: Jesse Stockton
Recording artist Jesse Stockton plays an afternoon set at Wilmington Distillery. Sip handcrafted spirits — Chilli Willi, Von Vodka, Limoncello — while soaking in live music downtown.
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Echoes of Heroes
Local rock band Echoes of Heroes play original rock, hard rock, and progressive music with a few choice covers. Decades of musical experience, big sound, perfect for the under-the-bridge beer garden.
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Gage Saylor & The Creekside Boys
Southern rock band Gage Saylor & The Creekside Boys play Outer Dunes' beer garden in Porters Neck. Cape Fear Smash Burger on site 5-8pm. Outdoor stage, fire pits, classic Saturday vibes.
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Overtyme
Overtyme plays Cloud 9's open-air rooftop bar overlooking the Cape Fear River. Sunset views, craft cocktails, and Wilmington's best skyline soundtrack.
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Professor Dub — Sunset Live Music Series
Wilmington's own Professor Dub spins his signature blend of grooves at Marina Grill's Boatyard. Free, family- and dog-friendly, golden hour over Port City Marina.
Bring your own chairs
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Dan Davis Jazz Trio
Day two of Fermental's Super Jazz Weekend. Dan Davis Jazz Trio brings Saturday night swing to the beer garden. Beat Street and Kimchi Tacos on site for food.
Super Jazz Weekend
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The Conspiracy at Seven Mile Post
The Conspiracy brings their high-energy cover act to Seven Mile Post in Ogden. Locally owned neighborhood pub, friendly staff, killer Saturday night for midtown locals.
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Ditch Kitty
SeaWitch's new favorite band Ditch Kitty plays all your favorite 80s and 90s college rock. No cover, dinner specials all night, and the best beach bar vibe in Carolina Beach.
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Low Down Dirty Heathens
Wilmington's home for live blues hosts Low Down Dirty Heathens for a Saturday night throwdown. Juke joint atmosphere, free parking, plenty of seats — and the soul of the Cape Fear blues scene.
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DJ Slim Deluxe
DJ Slim Deluxe takes over Wilmington Distillery for a late-night dance, vibe, and chill set. Locally owned hotspot serving handcrafted spirits and the freshest beats downtown.
Festivals 5
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Belville Founders Day
Belville's annual birthday celebration on the banks of the Brunswick River. Live music, family fun, vendors, and local history — Brunswick County's hometown party.
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Coastal Music Festival
Coastal Music Festival in Hampstead — a free community music festival at Hampstead United Methodist Church. Local musicians, family-friendly atmosphere, perfect Pender County Saturday.
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Ocean Fest
Ocean Fest returns to downtown Surf City for a free, all-day beachside celebration. Live music, vintage surf contest, 5K beach run, eco education, vendors, food, drinks — all benefiting Mother Ocean.
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Pender Spring Fest
A fabulous day of games, entertainment, and vendors selling homemade, handmade, and homegrown items on the Pender County Courthouse Square in Burgaw. Classic small-town spring festival energy.
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NC Black Film Festival
The 24th annual NC Black Film Festival continues across Jengo's Playhouse, Cameron Art Museum, and Thalian Hall. Three days of Black storytellers across multiple genres — a Wilmington cultural cornerstone.
Festival runs through May 3
Food & Drink Events 7
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Sammy Sea's Brenda's Big & Boozy Beachside Drag Brunch
Brenda's Big & Boozy Beachside Drag Brunch at Sammy Sea's. Bottomless mimosas, signature cocktails, and stellar drag performances. The most fun way to wake up on a Saturday in Wilmington.
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Hell's Kitchen Kentucky Derby Watch Party
All-day Kentucky Derby watch party at Hell's Kitchen with themed cocktails, best-dressed contest, and big screens for the race. Downtown's classic Derby spot.
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FBAR Fundraiser at DrumTrout
3rd Annual fundraiser benefiting Freedom Bridge Animal Rescue. Raffles, beer, food trucks, and a portion of proceeds going to the rescue. Family-owned Pine Valley brewery doing good in the community.
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Tap Yard Kentucky Derby Party
Kentucky Derby watch party at Tap Yard with prizes, surprises, and drink specials. Wear your hat, place your bets, and enjoy the most exciting two minutes in sports.
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Blind Elephant Kentucky Derby Party & Fundraiser
USA Today Top Bar 2025 hosts a Derby party with themed cocktails, costume contests, and a portion of proceeds benefiting Pasture Pals Equine Rescue. Theme dress strongly encouraged. $10 non-members; free for members.
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Sweet & Hoppy Social — Leland Brewing
Frosty's Ice Cream Truck pairs with Leland Brewing for ice cream and beer pairing flights, root beer floats for the kids, and Derby attire encouraged. Brunswick County's craft beer hub goes sweet.
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Pink Out at the Races: Kentucky Derby Party
Themed Kentucky Derby Day party at Dram & Draught — three signature cocktails included, special viewing of the race, derby attire encouraged. Pink-out theme for breast cancer awareness.
Family-Friendly 4
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Book Fair and Market
50+ vendors including indie bookstores, local authors, bookish treasures, and handmade goods. Author talk with Lauren Connolly at 1pm, candle-making workshop at 2:30pm ($25). Outdoor event, food trucks on site.
Author talk 1pm, candle workshop 2:30pm
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The Rift 2nd Annual Derby Day
Port City Ponies on site, kid's competition at 4:30pm, adult competition at 5:30pm, prizes and Derby fun. Family-friendly Derby celebration with games and giveaways.
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Wizard of Oz on ICE!
Thalian Hall Main Attraction Series brings Wizard of Oz to life on ice — two showtimes for families and skating fans. A magical, dazzling spin on a beloved classic.
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Free Comic Book Day
National Free Comic Book Day at Memory Lane Comics. Free comics, special guests, and the best place in Wilmington to celebrate comic culture with the family. Always free, always fun.
Farmers Markets 2
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Riverfront Farmers Market
Wilmington's flagship Saturday farmers market on Dock Street between 2nd and Water. Local produce, baked goods, crafts, fresh fish, and a perfect downtown morning. Rain or shine through November.
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Wilmington Farmers Market at Tidal Creek
Year-round Saturday market at Tidal Creek Co-Op on Oleander. Locally grown, locally made — the highest quality local food for Wilmington's most supportive market community.
Outdoor & Sporting Events 2
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UNCW Seahawks Baseball vs. Charleston
UNCW takes on Charleston in CAA conference baseball at Brooks Field. Beautiful spring afternoon ball — affordable family outing right on UNCW's campus.
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36th Annual River to Sea Bike Ride
The annual 20-mile bike ride traces the historic Wilmington Beach Car Line route from city to coast. All ages and experience levels welcome — must be able to ride 20 miles at a casual pace. Helmets required.
Car Shows & Cruise-Ins 2
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Cars & Coffee at The Pointe
First-Saturday Cars & Coffee at The Pointe at Barclay. Coffee, classics, customs, and conversation. The biggest informal car meet in Wilmington — a monthly tradition for gearheads of every stripe.
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NHHS Auto Shop Car Show
Sun Coast Cruisers and the NHHS Auto Shop team up for a community car show. A great way to support a high school auto program while admiring some seriously sharp rides.
Sunday · May 3
Concerts 2
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Ani DiFranco — Spirit of Love Tour w/ Valerie June
Folk-punk icon Ani DiFranco brings the Spirit of Love Tour to Greenfield Lake Amphitheater with Valerie June opening. Two generational singer-songwriters in one of the most beautiful outdoor venues on the East Coast.
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Laura Jane Grace w/ Lung and Black Guy Fawkes
Against Me! frontwoman Laura Jane Grace brings her solo punk-rock songs to Bowstring's Soda Pop District venue with Lung and Black Guy Fawkes opening. A genuinely special show in a great room.
Theater & Performing Arts 3
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Wilmington Symphonic Winds — Spring Concert
Note: This event is May 31, not part of weekend window. Skipping.
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Disaster! (Closing Performance)
Closing performance of Disaster! the disco-musical comedy. Last chance to catch all the cheese, all the disco, and all the laughs of this Panache Theatrical Productions run.
Closing performance
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The Varsity Line
Opera House Theatre Company & Twinkle Doon present The Varsity Line — Sunday matinee or evening showing of Wilmington's brand new world-premiere stage piece.
Comedy & Magic 1
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Sinister Sisters' Sideshow & Aerial Burlesque
Aerial burlesque sideshow at the Barzarre — Wilmington's grand bohemian hideout brings the strange, the beautiful, and the unexpected. $15 cash, full bar, hookah, tacos. Singular Sunday night.
Local Bars & Live Music 6
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Ethan Hanson
Feel-good Sunday afternoon grooves with Ethan Hanson at Wilmington Distillery. $5 mimosas, $4 Stella, locally crafted spirits, and live music in the heart of downtown.
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Gage Saylor & The Creekside Boys
Local country music with a passion for home grown sound. Finish your weekend with Gage Saylor & The Creekside Boys at Waterline's beer garden — Smash N' Dash and Kimchi Tacos on site.
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Soul-R Fusion
Sunday afternoon soul-R&B fusion at Ted's listening room. Ages 10 and up, $11 ticket — one of the best deals in town for live music in an intimate setting under the bridge.
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Boogie in the Park Concert Series
Season opener of Kure Beach's free Boogie in the Park concert series. Bring a beach chair or blanket and enjoy live music by the sea — first and third Sundays through October.
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Weekly Jazz Jam hosted by Jay Killman
Weekly Sunday Jazz Jam closes Fermental's Super Jazz Weekend. Hosted by Jay Killman in the beer garden — bring your instrument or just bring your ears.
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Grateful Sunday w/ Paul DeCirce
Paul from Dirty Dead spins groovy and grateful Grateful Dead-influenced jams at Wilmington Distillery. Sunday night for the Heads — sip handcrafted rum and get into a vibe.
Festivals 2
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May the 3rd Be With You Market
Geek and freak trading outpost — Star Wars-themed market with rare artifacts, handmade treasures, and local brews. Whether you're a Jedi Master or a bounty hunter, set your coordinates for under the bridge.
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NC Black Film Festival (Final Day)
Final day of the 24th annual NC Black Film Festival. Don't miss the closing screenings and panels celebrating Black storytelling across multiple genres at three iconic Wilmington venues.
Festival closing day
Food & Drink Events 2
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Lemon Infused Cavatelli Pasta Workshop
Hands-on pasta workshop including charcuterie snack, glass of champagne, fresh pasta to take home, and a jar of pasta sauce. $60 with reservation. A perfect Sunday afternoon for foodies.
Reservation required
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New World Vs Old World Wine Dinner
Multi-course wine dinner exploring New World vs Old World wines paired with Italian cuisine at Ciana. $75 per person, reservation required. Wilmington's Sunday foodie event of the week.
Reservation required
Family-Friendly 2
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Mother's Day Market Fundraiser
Vendors, raffles, and a Mother's Day market benefiting the Federal Point Help Center. Carolina Beach's brewery + disc golf course hosts a community Sunday with a charitable cause.
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Paws for a Cause Fundraiser
"You Drink, They Donate" fundraiser at Brunswick Beer & Cider. Every drink supports local animal welfare — a perfect Sunday Funday with a purpose.
Farmers Markets 1
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HDWM Artisan Market
Weekly Sunday artisan market in Historic Downtown Wilmington. Local makers, artists, and crafters set up shop along the Riverwalk. Runs every Sunday through October.
Outdoor & Sporting Events 1
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UNCW Seahawks Baseball vs. Charleston
UNCW closes the home weekend series against Charleston at Brooks Field. Sunday afternoon ball — a perfect way to round out the weekend in beautiful spring weather.
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