Looking for things to do in southeastern North Carolina from Friday, September 25, through Thursday, October 1, 2026? These five picks cover Surf City, Sneads Ferry, Holly Ridge and Wilmington, with coastal markets, seafood-festival fun, regional art and living history.
Shop the Sound Craft & Farmers Market
Friday, September 25 | 8:00 a.m.–noon
Soundside Park, 517 Roland Avenue, Surf City, NC 28445 (Pender County)
Cost: Free
Start Friday by shopping fresh produce, handmade goods and one-of-a-kind finds from local farmers, artisans and small businesses along the waterfront. The Town of Surf City lists this free market at Soundside Park and encourages visitors to shop local while enjoying the park’s coastal setting.
55th Sneads Ferry Shrimp Festival
Friday, September 25 | gates open 5:00 p.m.; music 6:00–11:00 p.m.
Saturday, September 26 | gates open 10:00 a.m.; music 11:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.; fireworks 10:00 p.m.
126 Park Lane, Sneads Ferry, NC 28460 (Onslow County)
Cost: $5 cash or $6.25 by credit card
Celebrate a longtime coastal tradition with seafood, vendors and two days of live music in Sneads Ferry. The official schedule lists Friday performances by Dalton Davis and The Conspiracy, a Saturday lineup running throughout the day, and fireworks at 10:00 p.m. Saturday.
2026 Holly Ridge Open-Air Market
Saturday, September 26 | 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
Holly Ridge Community Center, 404 Sound Road, Holly Ridge, NC 28445 (Onslow County)
Cost: Not stated on the official page
Support local artisan vendors at the Town of Holly Ridge’s monthly open-air market. The official town calendar confirms the September market’s four-hour Saturday schedule at the community center.
ARTfall Art Show
Friday–Saturday, September 25–26 | 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. each day
Hannah Block Historic USO/Community Arts Center, 120 South 2nd Street, Wilmington, NC 28401 (New Hanover County)
Cost: Not stated on the official page
ARTfall closes its 2026 run with two final days showcasing original work by emerging and established artists, with preference given to creators from the Lower Cape Fear region. Visitors can view the juried exhibition and purchase available original artwork directly through the show.
Battleship Alive!
Saturday, September 26 | 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Battleship NORTH CAROLINA, 1 Battleship Road, Wilmington, NC 28401 (New Hanover County)
Cost: Included with regular admission; adults $14, seniors $10, ages 6–11 $6, ages 5 and under free, plus applicable tax
World War II living-history interpreters bring the Battleship to life by reenacting daily duties and drills, with opportunities for visitors to ask questions and take photographs. The program is designed for families and youth groups and is included with the self-guided Battleship admission.
Please note: Event times, locations, prices, ticket availability and weather plans can change. Check each linked official event page immediately before leaving, especially for cancellation or schedule updates.
Southeastern North Carolina events FAQ
What is happening around Surf City and Sneads Ferry this weekend?
Shop the Sound opens Friday morning in Surf City, and the 55th Sneads Ferry Shrimp Festival runs Friday evening and throughout Saturday.
Where can I shop from local makers?
Shop the Sound features farmers, artisans and small businesses Friday at Soundside Park, while the Holly Ridge Open-Air Market brings artisan vendors to the community center Saturday.
What can families do in Wilmington on Saturday?
Families can visit the final day of ARTfall or meet World War II living-history interpreters during Battleship Alive! Confirm current details with each organizer before leaving.
