The Reveal: Nov–Dec 2025

The Reveal: November – December  

Our five highlights from this issue’s calendar of events

November 7–9, 2025
Cape Fear Kite Festival
Fort Fisher State Recreation Area
See the sky come alive with color at the Cape Fear Kite Festival, the final event of the professional kite season. Enjoy massive kites, live music, food trucks, and local vendors. Friday kicks off with daytime flying at Kure Beach Pier and a “Night with Kites” at Carolina Beach. Weekend festivities continue at Kure Beach—leashed dogs welcome! Admission is free; food and drinks available for purchase.

November 19–23, 2025 
Cucalorus Festival
Various Venues, Historic Downtown Wilmington
Cucalorus transforms downtown Wilmington into a creative hub with films, live performances, and entrepreneurship panels. Recognized by MovieMaker Magazine as one of the “Coolest Film Festivals in the World,” it draws over 22,000 attendees for screenings, workshops, and events across the city. Individual tickets and festival passes available online.
 

November 27, 2025 Wrightsville Beach Turkey Trot
The Loop at Wrightsville Beach
Start Thanksgiving with the Wrightsville Beach Turkey Trot—a 5K and one-mile fun run around the scenic Loop. Come dressed in your best turkey costume, enjoy prizes, and burn off pre-feast calories. Registration required; spectators free.

Starts November 28, 2025 
Merry & Bright: A Holiday of Lights
Poplar Grove Plantation
Poplar Grove Plantation sparkles with thousands of lights, live music, holiday vendors, and Santa visits. Guests can roast marshmallows, enjoy local food and drinks, and even bring their dogs on select nights. Online tickets required; discounts available.

December 7, 2025 
Wilmington Holiday Parade
North Front and Walnut Streets to South Front and Church Streets
Downtown Wilmington shines during this beloved holiday parade featuring floats, marching bands, entertainers, and Santa Claus. The parade travels from North Front and Walnut to South Front and Church Streets. Free for spectators.