Wilmington NC Events Jan-Feb 2015

Looking to fill your social calendar? We've got the rundown on what to do this Winter.

Brownie Harris: A 45 Year Retrospective Exhibition
Jan 23 – Feb 27

Cape Fear Community College’s Wilma W. Daniels Gallery is honored to present “Brownie Harris: A 45 Year Retrospective,” a solo exhibition which explores the extensive career of nationally known Wilmington-based photographer Brownie Harris. The exhibition highlights four areas of work: portraits, bromoils, dance and industrial. A graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University with a BFA in Communication Arts and Design, Brownie has seen and photographed it all, from JFK Jr. to children playing on the beach. His unassuming and respectful approach to all subjects paired with his expert ability to bring a subject to life through lighting and composition are evident throughout the exhibition. An opening reception will be held January 23, 2015 from 6-9pm, and a closing reception will be held February 27, 2015 from 6-9pm. Regular gallery hours are Tuesdays-Thursdays from 12-5pm and Fridays from 12-3:30pm. CFCC Wilma W. Daniels Gallery, 910-362-7000. cfcc.edu/blogs/wilmagallery/category/current-show

Hair: the Musical
Jan 2 - 4; 8 – 11, 15 - 17

Enjoy the classic music and attitude of the 60s. Hair tells the story of the “tribe,” a group of politically active, longhaired hippies of the “Age of Aquarius” living a bohemian life in New York City and fighting against conscription into the Vietnam War. Note: This show contains nudity and may not be suitable for all audiences. Thursday to Saturday, 7:30pm, Sundays 3pm. Thalian Hall, 910-632-2285. thalianhall.org

Wilmington Dermatology Center’s Free Educational Event 
Jan 15

Join Wilmington Dermatology Center for a free educational event on the latest skincare treatments and trends, and how you can look your best. A comprehensive review of cosmetic treatments including Botox, fillers, noninvasive procedures and tips from the experts. Features live demonstrations and event savings. Led by Dr. Rosalyn George. 6-9pm. Bluewater Restaurant, 910-256-4350. wilmingtondermatologycenter.com

Courtyards and Cobblestones
Jan 17

Enjoy this self-guided tour showcasing historic wedding venues and wedding professionals ready to help you make your special day perfect. Attendees will get to experience seven themed reception and ceremony sites in Wilmington’s finest oldest landmarks and speak with top area wedding professional about products and services. Enjoy music from local artists in addition to scrumptious appetizers, light bites and tasty treats. Check-in: 4-6pm, tour: 4-8pm. Admission: online $18, at the door $25. courtyardsandcobblestones.com

150th Anniversary of the Battle of Fort Fisher: Nor Shall Your Glory Be Forgot
Jan 17 - 18

The Civil War Sesquicentennial observance will focus on the struggle to capture and defend the fort during the attack of January 5, 1865. Infantry units will be on hand to talk with visitors about camp life, garrison duty, conduct drills and marching in addition to the live demonstrations of the Historic Site's Rifled and Banded cannons. There will also be hands-on activities for adults and children alike. 10am-4pm. Free admission. Fort Fisher State Historic Site, 910-458-5538. nchistoricsites.org/fisher

SALT Studio’s 1-Year Anniversary Party
Jan 23

This event celebrates SALT Studio Photography’s first year as a photo studio and Wilmington’s only fine art photography gallery. The exhibition will feature photographs of work the studio has done during 2014, from editorial, commercial and private clients to a few fine art pieces. Light bites and refreshments will be served. 6-10pm. SALT Studio, 805 N. 4th St, 910-367-5720. saltstudionc.com

John Brown Jazz Orchestra: It Might As Well Be Swing
Jan 23

This is a night of brass, class, rhythm, and swing. There are “Big Bands,” and then there is John Brown’s Big Band. John Brown is a sought-after bassist who, as the front man, delivers absolute and joyous spontaneity, palpable warmth, infectious showmanship, and most of all, musical mastery. You’ll enjoy big band hits, kicked up a notch under the guidance and indisputable finesse of a Jazz Master. 7:30pm. Admission $20-$36. Thalian Hall, 910-632-2285. thalianhall.org

10th Annual Red Dress Luncheon
Feb 6

The New Hanover Regional Medical Center Foundation Red Dress Project honors women with a special event designed to bring more people together in the battle against heart disease. Together, the Foundation and the NHRMC Heart Center is helping more women learn the signs and symptoms of heart disease, get screened, and take steps to keep their hearts healthy. 11am, vendor show and social; noon lunch. Wilmington Convention Center, 910-815-5002, nhrmc.org/reddress 

SPONSORED EVENT: 17th Annual Cape Fear “Daisy” Heart Ball
Feb 14

This annual black-tie event celebrates The American Heart Association’s mission of building healthier lives, free of cardiovascular disease and stroke and raises funds to support research and education. The red carpet rolls out with an incredible silent auction and cocktail reception.  The Cape Fear’s top business, medical, civic and social leaders will enjoy an exciting gourmet dinner, live auction and musical entertainment. One of the largest fundraising events, research funded by the American Heart Association has yielded important discoveries and new lifesaving techniques such as CPR, life-extending drugs, pacemakers, bypass surgery and surgical techniques to repair heart defects. 6pm. Union Station, Cape Fear Community College, 910-538-9270. wilmingtonncheartball.ahaevents.org

Valentine’s Day Cruise
Feb 14

This year, treat your special someone to this wonderful dinner & dance cruise on the scenic Cape Fear River. Enjoy an appetizing buffet, entertainment, and a cash bar with full ABC permits aboard North Carolina’s largest riverboat for your romantic Valentine’s Dinner. Board 6pm, cruise 6:30-9pm. Cape Fear Riverboats, 910-343-1611. cfriverboats.com

ACS Spring Home Show
Feb 20 - 22

The Home Show is an event designed for homeowners in all stages of remodeling, landscaping and decorating their homes. Each event includes hundreds of home improvement and landscaping exhibits with product demonstrations and sample interior and exterior vignettes. With a combination of new products and expert advice from the pros, the Home Show inspires homeowners with countless ideas on enhancing their home’s comfort and functionality, as well as its aesthetic appeal and overall value. Parking is available at the attached parking deck. Free admission. Wilmington Convention Center, 910-251-5101. ACShomeshow.com

A Legendary Love: Romeo and Juliet’s Next Fake Wedding
Feb 21

Newly engaged couples throughout the Southeast are invited to experience a hands-on bridal show alternative with hand-selected wedding professionals in action. Couples will have the opportunity to meet some of Wilmington’s top vendors while getting inspiration, ideas and establishing important relationships for their big day. 1-4pm. The River Room, 910-251-8902. thenextfakewedding.eventbrite.com

Special Olympics Polar Plunge
Feb 21

Take a chilling plunge into the Atlantic Ocean or run for a cause and raise money for Special Olympics New Hanover County. Special Olympics NHC provides year-round sports training, competition, social events and Camp Shriver summer camp for people eight years of age and older with intellectual disabilities. The Special Olympics of New Hanover County invite you to participate in the Annual Polar Plunge 5K and Plunge. Join us in a 5K winding through Kure Beach and ending in the sand! As usual, race participants are encouraged to dress up. There will be a Chinese auction pre-race, a costume contest, and of course the plunge at the end! Registration opens at 11am, race 5K starts at 1:30pm. Kure Beach. plungenhc.com

Race 13.1
Feb 22

Join in Wilmington’s inaugural Race 13.1. This 5K, 10K and half marathon will start and finish at Lumina Station and will take racers on a route through the city’s Cross City Trail as well as the University of North Carolina-Wilmington’s campus. Race 13.1 is a USATF Certified course and the overall winners in the male and female divisions will receive awards. 7am. Admission fees vary by division. Lumina Station, 866-561-5651, ext. 301. race131.com

Wilmington Winter Wine & Beer Walk
Feb 28

Enjoy a self-guided tasting tour of downtown Wilmington’s finest popular restaurants and drinking establishments. Discover new and different beers and wines available at these local spots while you also discover your new favorite downtown hangout, bar, or restaurant. To make it even better, receive two free samples at each location. Tickets are limited, so purchase yours in advance. 1-6pm. The walk begins at Ziggy’s By the Sea, 208 Market St. Tickets are $15 each or 2 for $25 and can be purchased online at Etix.com or at the following businesses: The Fortunate Glass 29 S. Front St. 910-399-4292 (cash only) or Front Street Brewery 9 N. Front St. 910-251-1935 (cash only). All participants must be at least 21 years of age, and have a valid ID readily available for establishments to verify. wineandbeerwalk.com

Tidewater Camellia Club 65th Annual Show and Sale
Feb 28

Each year this historic show has grown with exhibitors and judges from many southeastern states. Today, it is one of the largest and best-attended shows in the United States. Camellia experts will display over 1,000 blooms for evaluation by American Camellia Society judges. An excellent selection of camellias will be available for purchase. See the website for a detailed list of the day’s event schedule. 1-5pm. Plant sales start at 9am. Free admission. New Hanover County Arboretum, 910-798-7660. tidewatercamelliaclub.org