Holiday Things to Do
Christmas By The Sea In Carolina Beach
Celebrate Christmas coastal-style on the island with festive lights, holiday markets, a boat parade and more. Watch boats adorned in their holiday best glide across the water during the Christmas Flotilla, and while visiting, discover coastal finds on your gift list at the Christmas by the Sea at the Carolina Beach Boardwalk. Finally, ring in the New Year with a giant beach ball drop. It’s the most colorful time of the year in Carolina Beach.
ISLAND OF LIGHTS
The Island of Lights Festival officially kicks off each year with the Lighting at the Lake, held the night after Thanksgiving at Carolina Beach Lake Park. Kids can visit with Santa and then explore the one-mile decorated trail that surrounds the lake. Another Carolina Beach holiday tradition, the Christmas Parade takes place the second Friday after Thanksgiving and features decorated floats, marching bands and, of course, Santa and Mrs. Claus. The following day, the festivities take to the water during the Christmas Flotilla, when themed boats decorated with thousands of lights put on quite a show as they cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway.
COASTAL CHRISTMAS FINDS
The little ones can visit Santa in his workshop, see a live Nativity and hear carolers during Christmas by the Sea at the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, while the adults shop for the perfect coastal-inspired gifts. Shop the island's surf shops and gift boutiques to find the perfect gift for all those on your list.
CELEBRATE NEW YEAR’S EVE AT THE COAST
Ring in the New Year with a giant beach ball drop during the Island of Lights New Year's Eve Celebration. This free family-friendly event features a DJ, dancing, refreshments and party favors and culminates with a giant beach ball drop followed by a spectacular fireworks display. The location rotates each year between Carolina Beach (at the Carolina Beach Boardwalk) and nearby Kure Beach (Ocean Front Park).
Featured Holiday Blogs
Experience the Holidays Coastal Style in Carolina Beach
During the holiday season, Carolina Beach lights up with festive decorations and cheerful happenings around every corner. Get away to our coastal...
3 min read