Discover the charm of a small-town holiday in Kure Beach, where holiday festivities and cherished traditions come to life. While many of the area’s events have grown over the years, they continue to attract locals and visitors year after year.
Traditions of Christmas Past
Inspiring the nostalgia of beach vacations of yesteryear, Kure Beach has always valued community and local traditions in its holiday celebrations. In the early days, when the town was too small for elaborate decorations or large-scale events, locals would prepare festive holiday meals using fresh caught, local seafood. Families, friends and neighbors would gather for potlucks featuring beloved Southern dishes, invoking the true spirit of the season. Local churches held special services and caroling events, bringing residents together to share in the holiday cheer. As Kure Beach grew, more elaborate holiday celebrations began to emerge.
Festival of Trees
A cherished holiday tradition since 2000, the Cape Fear Festival of the Trees at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher captivates visitors with its enchanting display of creativity and embodiment of community spirit. Each year, the aquarium is transformed into a breathtaking winter wonderland, showcasing beautifully decorated trees crafted by local artists, businesses and other organizations. These uniquely themed trees reflect a variety of inspiration, from the natural beauty of the coastal environment to whimsical holiday motifs.
The event also includes family-friendly activities such as visits from Santa, holiday crafts and educational programs highlighting marine life, all while supporting the aquarium's educational and conservation efforts.
Holiday Whoobie Whatty
On Dec. 13, join the fun at the Kure Beach Holiday Whoobie Whatty at Ocean Front Park. This Grinch-themed outdoor event began in 2018 and quickly became a favorite of locals and visitors alike.
The highlight of the event is a screening of the beloved 2018 animated film “The Grinch” when everyone gathers under the stars for a nostalgic cinematic experience that uniquely captures the magic of the season.
In addition to the movie, the event is packed with interactive activity stations designed for children and families. Kids can unleash their creativity with face painting, turning themselves into festive characters, or indulge their sweet tooth with cookie decorating, crafting their own delicious holiday treats. Another highlight of the celebration is the chance to snap a photo with the Grinch himself!
Island of Lights
Kure Beach and neighboring Carolina Beach transform into the Island of Lights during the holiday season, featuring events like the Island of Lights: Lighting at the Lake at Carolina Beach Lake Park. In its inaugural year in 1990, the event showcased only five light displays around the lake, but it has since grown to feature more than 20 installations. The Island of Lights Christmas Flotilla, a boat parade that sails along the Intracoastal Waterway, captivates spectators with its festively decorated vessels and has become a cherished tradition for many each year. Other events include the Holiday Tour of Homes, which invites visitors to admire some of the island's most beautifully decorated homes, along with the Island of Lights New Year's Eve Celebration, which alternates between Carolina Beach and Kure Beach each year, and features a beach ball drop at midnight to welcome the New Year.
Holiday Retreat
The Kure Lighthouse Inn is an excellent choice for a cozy holiday stay by the sea, offering amenities perfect for the colder season, such as an outdoor firepit. Its prime location ensures that festive activities and attractions in Kure Beach are just a short walk away. For another charming boutique experience, consider SeaBirds, located in the heart of Kure Beach. Originally built in the 1960s, this motel features uniquely themed beach rooms, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. For more space and the freedom of a vacation home, there are many vacation rentals in Kure Beach that are sure to fit all your needs.
From a whimsical Grinch-themed event to stunning displays at the Aquarium, the holiday spirit is alive in our coastal community.
