Celebrate at the Cape Fear Kite Festival Nov. 3-5 at the shore. As the last professional kite flying event of the season, the festival draws flyers from around the country who bring their spectacular sky art to our scenic seaside. Kick off the festival Friday night with illuminated kites flying above the sand in nearby Carolina Beach and enjoy live music, local food vendors and more. Then, enjoy two days of kite-flying cheer at Fort Fisher State Recreation Area! Gaze up at incredible kites of all sizes, shapes and styles as they soar through the sky and enjoy live music, shop local vendors and dine on local favorites from food trucks. This one-of-a-kind festival is a must-attend event each fall.

The holiday season is quickly approaching, and Kure Beach has festive happenings to make your season sandy and bright! From shopping local at the Kure Beach Market to exploring the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher's winter waterland, there are plenty of merry activities to curate a holiday getaway.

• Cape Fear Festival of Trees at the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher – Nov. 17, 2023 – Jan. 1, 2024
• Kure Beach Holiday Market – Nov. 18 and 25
• Island of Lights: Lighting at the Lake in nearby Carolina Beach – Nov. 24
• Island of Lights Holiday Flotilla in nearby Carolina Beach – Dec. 2
• Kure Beach Holiday Whoobie Whatty – Dec. 15
• Holiday Story Time by the Sea – Dec. 16
• Island of Lights New Year’s Eve Celebration – Dec. 31