Offering holiday cheer with a coastal twist, Kure Beach has everything you need for the perfect holiday getaway.

Onlookers watch fireworks bursting in the night sky at the Island of Lights festival

From brilliant lights to historic sites, here are the top reasons Kure Beach should be on your holiday travel list this year.

Shopping Spree

Get a jump start on your holiday shopping at the annual Kure Beach Holiday Market held at Ocean Front Park. Support local artists as you browse through handcrafted items made by talented craftsmen, all with a backdrop of scenic ocean views. Grab a bite to fuel your shopping day from one of the tasty food trucks and jam to tunes from a DJ while shopping.

Bright Lights

For a truly unique holiday excursion, visit the Cape Fear Festival of Trees at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. Wander through a winter wonderland under the sea to explore an enchanted forest of holiday trees decorated to the nines. To experience Southern hospitality at its finest, embark on the self-guided Island of Lights Holiday Tour of Homes and stroll through some of the island’s most beautifully decorated homes. Head to nearby Carolina Beach for the annual Island of Lights Christmas Flotilla, where boats decked out in thousands of lights cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Classic Entertainment

Step back in time to experience a 19th century holiday at the Holiday Open House at Fort Fisher State Historic Site. This free event features refreshments, decorations, and entertainment, including a holiday musical guaranteed to delight the entire family. Learn how Santa Claus came to be or test your skills as you learn historic dance steps from the 1800s. A time-honored tradition, the Kure Beach Fantasy Christmas Show brings out all your favorite holiday characters – including Frosty, the Grinch, Cookie Monster and more. Don’t forget to visit Santa and his elves to hand-deliver your Christmas list!

Santa dancing on stage at the Fantasy Christmas Show in Kure Beach

Happy New Year!

Come ring in the new year at the annual Island of Lights New Year’s Eve Celebration at the nearby Carolina Beach Boardwalk. From live music and dancing to refreshments and party favors, there’s something for everyone at this family-friendly event. At the end of the night, watch the giant beach ball drop as you count down to 2020, followed by an epic fireworks display to welcome the new year.

Explore more holiday happenings and getaway ideas with these holiday highlights.