A Christmas by the sea is something everyone should experience at least once. “Beach” tends to be the last thing on most people’s minds when they think of December and early January—unless, of course, we’re talking about a coastal Christmas getaway.
Here on the Cape Fear Coast, we enjoy average December temperatures around 60°F and only about a week of rain all month long. It’s often warm enough for beach walks, reading outside with a light sweater, or sipping cocoa while watching the waves. Add in holiday lights, festive markets, and cheerful local events, and you’ll quickly see why a Christmas in North Carolina is a holiday experience unlike any other.
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Why Spend Christmas at the Beach in North Carolina
You'll Save Big Bucks
That’s right! On average, guests will save 30% on popular North Carolina beach vacation rental homes during the holidays compared to peak summer rates. Combine that with our special promotions, and you could see savings up to 40% off! If you're looking for an affordable holiday destination with all the comforts of home, a vacation rental is the perfect choice.
You'll Get First Choice of Vacation Rentals
The holidays are a quiet time of year for many beach communities, which is actually a boon for those who decide to visit. There’s generally plenty of availability, meaning you can pick your preferred size, location, and amenities. That oceanfront home with the hot tub and widow’s walk? It’s finally open—and in your price range!
You Won't Wait in Lines
Visit the beach during the “off-season” and you’ll see a whole new side of it. Traffic is light, grocery stores are calm, and restaurants have plenty of open tables. You’ll spend less time waiting and more time relaxing—exactly how a holiday season should be spent.
Beach Vacation Rentals Are Perfect for Large Family Gatherings
With up to eight-bedroom homes to choose from, Bryant Real Estate’s vacation rentals cater to large families gathering for Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or New Year’s. Shared common spaces mean more quality time for puzzles, games, and cozy movie nights together.
See All North Carolina Beach Vacation Rentals
Holiday Events & Christmas Lights on the Cape Fear Coast
From twinkling lights and tree lighting ceremonies to live performances and parades, the Cape Fear region shines bright all December long. Here are some of the top events happening near our beaches this year.
Classic Christmas Performances in Wilmington
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas
Experience the signature sound of America’s favorite Christmas tradition, complete with dazzling multimedia effects and a festive mix of beloved holiday music.
- When: November 20, 2025
- Where: Wilson Center, 703 N Third Street, Wilmington, NC 28401
- Times: Matinee 3 PM | Evening 7:30 PM
- Price: Tickets start at $60 (discounts available)
Nutcracker Musical Ballet
Celebrate the season with this spectacular international production featuring whimsical puppetry, handcrafted costumes, and Tchaikovsky’s timeless score.
- When: November 12, 2025
- Where: UNCW Kenan Auditorium, 601 S College Road, Wilmington, NC 28403
- Time: 7 PM
- Price: Tickets from $31
Holiday Lights, Parades & Tree Lightings
Downtown Wilmington Holiday Tree Lighting
Kick off the Christmas season with live entertainment, local vendors, and the festive tree lighting countdown along the Cape Fear River.
- When: November 28, 2025 | 4:30–8:30 PM
- Where: Wilmington Riverwalk, Market & Water Streets
- Price: Free
Enchanted Airlie
A beloved holiday event, this walking tour dazzles with millions of twinkling lights, glowing displays, and music under the oaks.
- When: Select nights November 28–December 21, 2025
- Where: Airlie Gardens, 300 Airlie Road, Wilmington, NC 28403
- Times: Timed entries at 5:30, 6:30, 7:30 & 8:30 PM
- Price: Tickets typically $35 per carload (sold online in advance)
Wilmington Holiday Parade
Marching bands, colorful floats, and even Santa himself make this parade a must-see tradition.
- When: December 7, 2025 | 6–8:30 PM
- Where: Downtown Wilmington, Front Street from Walnut to Church Streets
- Price: Free
Carolina Beach Christmas Parade
A festive island parade featuring floats, bands, and holiday cheer. While the beach may not turn into the snowy winter wonderlands of places in the north, the parade is still one of the most popular annual highlights for locals and guests alike.
- When: December 5, 2025 | 7–9 PM
- Where: Lake Park Blvd, Carolina Beach
- Price: Free
Festive Family Experiences
Christmas Train & Light Spectacular
Over 35,000 lights illuminate the railroad museum at this popular Christmas event. Enjoy gorgeous holiday decorations, musical animations, special holiday train displays, and a visit from Santa. Tickets available at the door only.
- When: November 28–December 21, 2025 | 6:30–8 PM
- Where: Wilmington Railroad Museum, 505 Nutt Street, Wilmington, NC 28401
- Price: $5 per person | Children under 2 free
Old Wilmington by Candlelight Tour
Step back in time as you embark on self-guided walking tours of historic homes and churches flocked with holiday décor. Every stop along the route features a docent-led telling of the landmark’s unique history.
- When: December 6–7, 2025
- Where: Historic Downtown Wilmington, starting at Latimer House Museum
- Times: Saturday 4–8 PM | Sunday 1–5 PM
- Price: $50–$55
Holiday Lights River Cruise
Cruise the Cape Fear River under sparkling lights while enjoying local music, cocktails, and appetizers.
- When: Select nights November 28–December 30, 2025 | 5:30–6:30 PM
- Where: Wilmington Water Tours, 212 S Water Street
- Price: Adults $28 | Kids 4–12 $18 | Under 3 Free
A250th: An 18th Century Christmas
Just 20 minutes from Wilmington, you can explore how colonial-era colonists celebrated the holidays. Tour St. Phillips Anglican Church, indulge in 18th-century-inspired refreshments, and get an authentic look at what life was like centuries ago along the North Carolina coast.
- When: December 14, 2025 | 1–5:30 PM
- Where: Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson, 8884 St. Philips Road SE, Winnabow, NC
- Price: $5 entry | Kids under 12 free
Coastal Holiday Shopping & Local Markets
Get some last-minute shopping done when you pop into any of these fun and festive holiday markets. Find artisan-made goods that will make the perfect one-of-a-kind present they’ll cherish forever.
Burgwin-Wright House Holiday Market
Shop 30+ local vendors for art, crafts, and handmade gifts in the beautiful historic gardens downtown.
- When: November 15, 2025 | 9 AM–3 PM
- Where: 224 Market Street, Wilmington, NC
Kure Beach Holiday Market
Enjoy oceanfront views while browsing handcrafted goods from local makers, with music and food trucks.
- When: November 22 & 29, 2025 | 9 AM–3 PM
- Where: Kure Beach Ocean Front Park & Pavilion
Carolina Beach Holiday Market
Find unique island-inspired gifts from over 90 local vendors at this festive community market.
- When: December 6, 2025 | 9 AM–3 PM
- Where: Carolina Beach Lake Park
Book Your Christmas Getaway with Bryant Real Estate
Featured Property: Stay Salty
At Bryant Real Estate, we make it simple to plan your Christmas in North Carolina by offering spacious beach homes and condos in Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, and Kure Beach.
Book direct with us for the best rates and personalized service. Avoid added Airbnb and VRBO fees and work directly with our local Cape Fear team to make your Christmas Day at the coast truly spectacular.
Frequently Asked Questions about Christmas in North Carolina
Where to go in North Carolina for Christmas?
The Cape Fear region is one of the most popular areas for a Christmas getaway thanks to festive small-town charm and beautiful beaches. If you’re planning to spend time this December at the beach, stay right on the shore in a gorgeous oceanfront home and still be close to all the fun events in nearby Wilmington when you book directly with Bryant Real Estate.
Where to see Christmas lights in North Carolina?
Some of the most dazzling displays and places to visit for Christmas in North Carolina include Enchanted Airlie in Wilmington, the Downtown Wilmington Tree Lighting Ceremony, and the Carolina Beach Parade of Lights. You can also see a floating display of lights at the Island of Lights Christmas Flotilla along the Intracoastal Waterway.
Does it snow in North Carolina for Christmas?
Snow is rare along the coast, as the weather in North Carolina in December averages around 60°F. That said, while you may not be building snowmen, it’s ideal for outdoor activities like beach walks, fishing, stargazing, and more!