Fall in Wilmington, NC, offers a perfect blend of crisp coastal air, festive events, and scenic beauty. Whether you're exploring pumpkin patches, enjoying fall brews, or taking in the stunning fall foliage, Wilmington is full of autumn adventures. From local festivals like Waterline’s Oktoberfest to corn mazes and pumpkin patches on the beach, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Read on to discover the best things to do in Wilmington this fall and the surrounding areas to make the most of this vibrant season!
Carolina Beach Pier Pumpkin Patch
Located at the iconic Carolina Beach Pier, this pumpkin patch offers scenic ocean views while you pick the perfect pumpkin. Dates are October 1, 2024 – October 31, 2024
Carolina Beach Pier – 1800 Carolina Beach Avenue N. Carolina Beach, NC 28428
Fall drinks and s’mores at Concorde Espresso
Concorde Espresso Bar offers a variety of fall-themed drinks like pumpkin spice lattes, cinnamon chai, and apple cider. They often set up a cozy outdoor firepit for making s’mores in October. It’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a crisp autumn evening in Wilmington.
2095 Market Street, Wilmington, NC
Visit Papercut Books
Papercut Books, a cozy independent bookstore is perfect for fall book shopping. Enjoy their halloween decor and find a spooky read!
1203 Princess St., Wilmington
Trask Family Farms
Trask Family Farms is a wonderful spot to visit in the fall, offering a variety of activities for all ages. The farm features a large corn maze with over 4 miles of trails, pumpkin picking, and unique in-maze games for both children and adults. From September 28th through early November, visitors can enjoy homemade ice cream, pick sunflowers and zinnias, and take in the autumn beauty of the farm.
3650 Blue Clay Rd, Castle Hayne, NC 28429
Biggers Market
Biggers Market is a local gem, offering fresh fall produce, flowers, and handmade goods. In the fall, you’ll find seasonal items like pumpkins, gourds, and homemade jams. The market will typically host other fall related events through the fall.
6250 Market St., Wilmington
Black Lagoon Halloween Pop Up
This spooky, immersive bar experience is perfect for Halloween enthusiasts and cocktail lovers alike. Taking place at The Eagle’s Dare from October 3 to 31, the Black Lagoon transforms the venue into a gothic haven, complete with eerie decor and horror-themed cocktails.
420 N 3rd St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Ocean Fest in Surf City
Ocean Fest is held in Surf City on September 20-21 and celebrates ocean conservation with live music, art, and water sports competitions​. It’s a great day trip from Wilmington, offering ocean views and a lively beach vibe even as the weather cools.
Day trip to Galloway Farms
Galloway Farms is known for its massive corn maze, which becomes a popular fall attraction. The farm also offers hayrides, pumpkin picking, and other family-friendly activities. It’s a fun day trip for anyone looking to embrace the autumn season. Galloway Farm’s Maze Craze is open from September 24 to November 6. It features a 13-acre maze, games, and live animals. Located about 45 minutes from Wilmington.
370 Artesia Rd, Hallsboro, NC 28442
Wilmington Beer Fest
Wilmington Beer Fest brings together local and regional craft breweries for a celebration of all things beer. Enjoy tastings, live music, and food trucks. The festival is a must-attend for craft beer enthusiasts looking to sample seasonal brews. This years date is October 26, 2024.
Waterline’s Oktoberfest
Waterline Brewing Co. hosts a lively Oktoberfest celebration with local craft brews, live music, and German-inspired food like pretzels and bratwurst. This fall event brings the community together for a fun, laid-back day near the Cape Fear River. Thsi years dates are October 5, 2024.
721 Surry St, Wilmington, NC 28401
North Carolina Oyster Fest in Ocean Isle
Held in nearby Ocean Isle Beach, this festival is a fall favorite celebrating the region’s oyster harvest. Enjoy fresh oysters prepared in various ways, live music, and local crafts. It’s the perfect coastal experience for seafood lovers. This years dates are October 20th and 21st.
Cider Fest in Leland
Leland’s Cider Fest is a celebration of all things cider, featuring tastings of locally made apple ciders at Brusnwick Beer & Cider. There’s also live music, food trucks, and activities for the whole family. It’s a great way to enjoy the fall harvest in the Wilmington area. Dates are November 2, 2024.
1313 S Dickinson Dr, Leland, NC 28451
Farmers Markets
In the fall, Wilmington’s farmers markets are filled with seasonal produce like apples, squash, and pumpkins. My favorite is the Wilmington Farmers Market on Saturdays, 8 am-1 pm.
5329 Oleander Dr # 100, Wilmington, NC 28403
Take a ghost tour
Wilmington’s historic streets are filled with ghost stories and haunted tales. Take a guided ghost tour through downtown to hear about the city’s spooky past. The crisp fall air makes it the perfect time for a spine-chilling adventure.
Get cozy and enjoy the empty beaches
Fall is a great time to visit Wilmington’s beaches without the summer crowds. Pack a blanket and warm up with a thermos of hot coffee while you enjoy the peaceful, empty shoreline at Wrightsville Beach or Carolina Beach.
Airlie Gardens
Airlie Gardens is a beautiful spot to visit in the fall, with its oak trees, winding paths, and seasonal blooms. As the leaves start to change, the gardens offer a peaceful and scenic escape.
300 Airlie Rd, Wilmington, NC 28403
Fishing with Rising Sun
Book a fishing charter with Rising Sun Charters, which offers fall fishing trips!
Fall drinks at local coffee shops
Besides Concorde Espresso, check out Hidden Grounds and Ibis for seasonal fall drinks like spiced chai and maple lattes.
Boomballati's seasonal flavors
Boombalatti’s Ice Cream offers fall-inspired flavors such as pumpkin pie and cinnamon roll. Visit them at their two Wilmington locations!
Backyard movie setup with Backyard Blockbusters
Backyard Blockbusters in Wilmington, NC is a unique way to enjoy classic and modern movies under the stars. With a big-screen setup in various locations or private yards, this event creates a cozy, outdoor movie theater experience for family and friends. It's a great option for those looking to relax outdoors in Wilmington's beautiful fall weather​.
Day trip to Lake Waccamaw State Park
Only about an hour from Wilmington, Lake Waccamaw is the perfect day trip for nature lovers. This is a beautiful spot to see the leaves change and be outside.
1866 State Park Dr, Lake Waccamaw, NC 28450
Seasonal baked goods at Jelly Cabinet
Jelly Cabinet is my favorite bakery in Wilmington and they never disappoint with their seasonal flavors! It switches up every weekend so go check it out. Only open Saturdays and Sundays, 8 am-2 pm.
I'll be adding more as they pop up, be sure to follow me on social media for updates!
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