Although conscientious effort is made to provide accurate and up-to-date information, all events are subject to change and errors can occur! Please call to verify times, costs, status and location before planning or attending any events.
FRIDAY, JUNE 12
SUMMER FESTIVAL. The Washington Summer Festival returns through June 13, bringing two days of sun, live music, food vendors and family-friendly activities to downtown Washington. Organized by the Washington-Beaufort County Chamber, the event highlights local businesses alongside regional sponsors and community partners. This event is free to attend, and times vary over the two days. Downtown Washington, 142 W. Main St., Washington, NC 27889. Info: www.wbcchamber.com.
TUESDAY, JUNE 16
BLUE PLATE SPECIAL. 5 p.m. or 7:30 p.m. Chef Luke Owens of Native Fine Diner and Julep Contemporary Kitchen in Greenville hosts his Blue Plate Special series. Each part of the series will feature a limited-seating, multi-course tasting menu created in collaboration with that month’s guest chef. This evening’s chef is Luis Zouain of LaGana in Raleigh, who brings a refined, ingredient-driven approach shaped by his Caribbean and Latin influences. Tickets are $125 plus tax. Native Fine Diner, 907 Dickinson Ave., Greenville, NC 27834. Info: www.eatatnative.com.
FRIDAY, JUNE 19
NC BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL. Celebrate the North Carolina Blueberry Festival, where downtown Burgaw transforms into a lively celebration of local flavor, music and community pride. Explore live entertainment, a Fleetwood Mac tribute concert, classic cars, farm tours, family-friendly activities and all things blueberry. This event runs through June 20. Downtown Burgaw, 106 E. Wilmington St., Burgaw, NC 28425. Info: info@ncblueberryfestival.com or www.ncblueberryfestival.com.
ENDLESS YARD SALE. 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. Hunt for hidden treasures along more than 100 miles of Highway 301 during this massive two-day yard sale adventure packed with antiques, collectibles, vintage finds, handmade goods and other unexpected gems. Browse booths and roadside stops across small North Carolina towns, where every mile offers the thrill of discovering something quirky, nostalgic or perfectly one-of-a-kind. This yard sale runs from Dunn to Weldon and lasts until June 20. NC Highway 301. Info: www.johnstoncountync.org/301-endless-yard-sale/.
SUNDAY, JUNE 21
JEFF LITTLE TRIO. 3 – 5 p.m. Experience an afternoon of lively Appalachian-inspired music as the Jeff Little Trio blends mountain traditions with an energetic, modern edge. Their internationally acclaimed sound showcases remarkable musicianship, toe-tapping rhythms, and the kind of intimate performance that feels both timeless and fresh. General admission costs $32. The Old Theater, 609 Broad St., Oriental, NC 28571. Info: (252) 249-0477 or www.oldtheater.org.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 24
WILBUR & ORVILLE. 7 p.m. Step into an immersive theatrical experience that brings the story of the Wright brothers to life through stunning lights, sound and projection. This one-man performance offers a fresh, deeply human look at the dreamers behind the first flight, blending history, innovation and live theater in an unforgettable way. Admission is free for this performance. The Pioneer Theater, 109 Budleigh St., Manteo, NC 27954. Info: (252) 305-8578 or thepioneertheater.com.
THURSDAY, JUNE 25
GIG IN THE PARK WITH BAND OF OZ. 6 – 9 p.m. Enjoy beach music favorites at a free outdoor concert series in downtown Wilson. Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy an evening of live music, with food trucks, and beer and wine available for purchase. Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park, 301 Goldsboro St. S. Wilson, NC 27893. Info: www.wilsonwhirligigpark.org.
FRIDAY, JUNE 26
AMERICA 250: THE ERAS TOUR. 7:30 p.m. Take a toe-tapping journey through the sounds of American music in this lively world premiere performance packed with vintage flair, humor and high-energy entertainment. The show blends nostalgic tunes, clever storytelling and playful comedy into an unforgettable experience inspired by everything from Postmodern Jukebox to late-night sketch shows. The show will run through June 28, with varying times. Tickets begin at $19. New Bern Civic Theatre, 414 Pollock St., New Bern, NC. Info: (252) 634-9057 or newberncivictheatre.org.
SATURDAY, JUNE 27
BEER AND WINE FESTIVAL. 4 – 9 p.m. Savor an evening of craft beverages and live music at the Cape Fear Botanical Garden’s Wine & Beer Festival, where guests can wander through beautiful gardens while sampling North Carolina wines, beers and meads. Enjoy food truck favorites, vendors and a vibrant atmosphere. General admission tickets cost $40. Cape Fear Botanical Garden, 536 North Eastern Boulevard, Fayetteville, NC, 28301. Info: (910) 486-0221 or capefearbg.org.
FAMILY MODEL BOAT CLASS. 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Build and decorate your own model boat in a hands-on workshop that brings maritime history to life through creativity, teamwork and guided instruction from experienced boat builders. This is a family-friendly event, where attendees will assemble a detailed wooden model while learning about traditional watercraft and the craftsmanship behind them. North Carolina Maritime Museum, 315 Front St., Beaufort, NC 28516. Info: (252) 504-7740 or ncmaritimemuseumbeaufort.com.
THE ART OF COLLAGE. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Create a relaxing, hands-on collage artwork experience guided by paper collage artist Janice Maves, where participants layer color, shape and texture to build a detailed owl illustration from magazine cutouts. Leave with a finished, matted piece ready to display or gift, all crafted in a setting that welcomes beginners and seasoned makers alike. This event is $34. Sylvan Heights Bird Park, 500 Sylvan Heights Park Way, Scotland Neck, NC 27874. Info: (252) 826-3186 or www.shwpark.com.
NC POLYNESIAN FESTIVAL. 12 – 8 p.m. Experience the vibrant spirit of the Pacific Islands through high-energy Polynesian dance, live drumming and storytelling brought to life by award-winning cultural performers. The celebration unfolds with artisan vendors, traditional crafts and immersive performances that highlight heritage while creating a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. The Rustic Barn at Half Moon, 135 Batting Cage Trail, Jacksonville, NC 28540. Info: ncpolyfest@gmail.com or ncpolynesianfest.com.
FRIDAY, JULY 3
AMERICA’S BIRTHDAY BASH. 6 – 11 p.m. St. Pauls Possible, a community volunteer organization, hosts an America 250 Birthday Bash celebrating the nation’s semiquincentennial with dinner, drinks and live music from The Swingin’ Richards in the Carolina Ballroom at the historic Carolina Civic Center. Tickets for this event are $100 per individual. Carolina Civic Center, 315 North Chestnut Street, Lumberton, NC 28358. Info: stpaulspossible.org.
CHARLES ESTEN. 8 p.m. Experience an evening of country music and storytelling as Charles Esten brings his acclaimed singer-songwriter career to the stage, blending heartfelt originals with the charm of a seasoned performer known for both screen and live performance. The show highlights his acclaimed album Love Ain’t Pretty, along with the warm, engaging presence that has made him a favorite at iconic venues like the Grand Ole Opry. Ticket prices begin at $55. The Pioneer Theater, 109 Budleigh St., Manteo, NC 27954. Info: (252) 305-8578 or thepioneertheater.com.
SATURDAY, JULY 4
There are countless events celebrating America 250 all across Eastern North Carolina on the Fourth of July, from the coast to inland towns, ranging from local festivals and live music to community markets and seasonal celebrations. The EastBound Magazine Calendar highlights just a small selection of what’s going on, offering a curated snapshot of events.
FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION. 5 – 9 p.m. The City of Wilmington’s Fourth of July Celebration returns with a free evening of live music, family activities, food vendors and fireworks over the Cape Fear River. The Wilmington Symphony Orchestra leads the entertainment lineup, setting the tone for a full night of performances and community programming. As the sun goes down, the event shifts toward its finale — fireworks lighting up the riverfront skyline. Riverfront Park, 10 Cowan St., Wilmington, NC 28401. Info: kayla.perkins@wilmingtonnc.gov or www.america250.nc.gov.
GLORIOUS 4TH. 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Mark the 250th anniversary of American independence with a ceremonial day at Tryon Palace featuring historic readings, fife and drum performances and guided experiences across the gardens and grounds. The celebration connects visitors to early Revolutionary-era traditions through music, storytelling and living history set in one of New Bern’s most iconic historic sites. Attendance to the Gardens is free until noon, with tours available for purchase. Tryon Palace, 529 South Front St., New Bern, NC 28562. Info: www.tryonpalace.org.
GOLF CART PARADE. 10 a.m. Join The Old Baldy Foundation on Bald Head Island with a festive golf cart parade that transforms the island into a rolling display of creativity and coastal charm. The celebration brings decorated carts, community spirit and playful competition to the streets in a beloved tradition. The lineup for the parade begins at Marina Park. Marina Park, 111 Keelson Row, Southport, NC 28461. Info: www.baldheadisland.com.
JULY 4TH FIREWORKS. 7 – 9 p.m. Kick off Independence Day at Atlantic Beach Circle with live music and a coastal atmosphere that builds into a dazzling fireworks display over the water. The evening brings together beachside celebration and community energy, with music setting the tone before the sky lights up in a vibrant summer finale. Atlantic Beach Circle, 115 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach, NC 28512. Info: atlanticbeach-nc.com.
SUNDAY, JULY 5
PATRIOTS AT SEA. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Step back to the eve of the American Revolutionary War in Bath, and experience life in a busy Colonial seaport preparing for war. Enjoy costumed interpreters, naval demonstrations, guided tours of St. Thomas Church, children’s games, a book signing and food trucks. Historic Bath, State Historic Site, 100 S. Harding St., Bath, NC 27808. Info: (252) 741-6030 or events.dncr.nc.gov/historic-bath.
SUNDAY, JULY 12
BUBBLE FEST. 12 – 4 p.m. Experience a day of giant bubbles, foam zones, music and hands-on activities at Wilmington’s beloved Bubble Fest, designed for kids and grownups alike. Families can explore interactive bubble stations, browse local vendors, and enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with photo-worthy moments and summertime fun. The Bend, 7227 Market St., Wilmington, NC 28411. Info: www.thebubblefestival.com.
THURSDAY, JULY 16
SENSATIONAL SHARKS. 12 – 1 p.m. Dive into the fascinating world of North Carolina’s coastal waters during a lively maritime lecture exploring shark history, conservation efforts and the role these apex predators play in local ecosystems. The program blends science and storytelling to reveal insights about sharks and efforts to protect these misunderstood ocean species. This is a free event, and if individuals are unable to attend in person, there is a virtual option. North Carolina Maritime Museum, 315 Front St., Beaufort, NC 28516. Info: (252) 504-7740 or ncmaritimemuseumbeaufort.com.
FRIDAY, JULY 17
WRIGHT KITE FESTIVAL. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Watch kites soar over one of the most iconic landscapes in aviation history at the Wright Kite Festival, where they fill the sky above the grounds where flight first began. Visitors can take part in kite flying, watch expert demonstrations and enjoy a lively, family-friendly celebration of wind, history and coastal adventure. Individuals can enjoy Wright Kite Festival activities with park admission, which is $10. Wright Brothers National Memorial, 1000 N. Croatan Highway, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948. Info: www.kittyhawk.com.
TUESDAY, JULY 21
BLUE PLATE SPECIAL. 5 p.m. or 7:30 p.m. Chef Luke Owens of Native Fine Diner and Julep Contemporary Kitchen in Greenville hosts his Blue Plate Special series. Each part of the series will feature a limited-seating, multi-course tasting menu created in collaboration with that month’s guest chef. This evening will host Oscar Diaz, a two-time James Beard semifinalist and Top Chef contestant from Little Bull in Durham. Tickets are $125 plus tax. Native Fine Diner, 907 Dickinson Ave., Greenville, NC 27834. Info: www.eatatnative.com.
FRIDAY, JULY 24
BETSY’S FLAG. Experience a dramatic retelling of the American Revolution through the story of Betsy Ross and John Claypoole, where personal devotion unfolds alongside the sweeping events of war and independence. The production weaves together intimate character moments and historical turning points. Show days for this production are July 24 through 26, and Aug 1 and 2. Times for performances vary by date. Orringer Auditorium, Craven Community College, 800 College Court, New Bern, NC, 28562. Info: www.nchistorytheater.org.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 29
MURFREESBORO WATERMELON FESTIVAL. The Murfreesboro Watermelon Festival runs to Aug. 1 and brings the town to life with rides, live music, contests and vendor booths all weekend long. Crowds gather for signature events like the parade, watermelon-eating contest and nightly concerts that keep the energy going from afternoon into late evening. This event is free July 29 through 30 and until 4 p.m. on July 31 and Aug. 1; $5 after 4 p.m. on July 31 and Aug. 1. 110 Sycamore St., Murfreesboro, NC 27855. Info: ncwatermelonfest.com.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 1
OBX ALL AMERICAN WING FLING. 3 – 9 p.m. This event blends food competition and community fun into an energetic gathering filled with tastings and entertainment. Guests will sample a wide variety of creative wing flavors while enjoying live music, local vendors and a festive Outer Banks atmosphere. Tickets range from $20 to $30. Roanoke Island Festival Park, 1 Festival Park, Manteo, NC 27954. Info: info@livefromobx.com or www.roanokeisland.com.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 6
OBX WATERMELON FESTIVAL. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. At the Outer Banks Watermelon Festival, guests get to dive into a playful day of seed-spitting contests, watermelon eating competitions, games, crafts and family-friendly activities. Other highlights from the festival include face painting, a rock climbing wall, food trucks and more. Admission to this event is free. Kitty Hawk Kites, 3933 S. Croatan Highway, Nags Head, NC 27959. Info: www.kittyhawk.com.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 7
RUN FOR THE LIGHT. Lace up for a scenic island run celebrating National Lighthouse Day, winding through dunes and maritime forest before finishing near the iconic Old Baldy Lighthouse. The celebration continues afterward with music, food and activities that honor the island’s history and support lighthouse preservation efforts. Race options include a 10K, 5K, or 1-mile run, with entry priced at $55. Old Baldy Lighthouse, 101 Lighthouse Wynd, Bald Head Island, NC 28461. Info: runsignup.com/Race/NC/BaldHeadIsland/OldBaldyRunfortheLight.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 8
NATIONAL LIGHTHOUSE DAY. 10 a.m. Celebrate National Lighthouse Day at Historic Edenton with a family-friendly open house filled with hands-on activities and opportunities to explore coastal maritime history. Visitors can connect with local heritage through interactive experiences centered around lighthouses and life along North Carolina’s waterways. Roanoke River Lighthouse, 7 Dock St., Edenton, NC 27932. Info: edenton@ncdcr.gov or visitedenton.com.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 13
WEST SIDE STORY. The Opera House Theatre Company brings West Side Story to Thalian Hall’s Historic Main Stage until Aug. 23. Leonard Bernstein’s iconic score and Stephen Sondheim’s lyrics drive a story that blends romance, conflict and movement. Show times vary based on the selected date. Tickets cost around $40 per guest. Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts, 310 Chestnut St., Wilmington, NC 28401. Info: (910) 632-2285 or www.thalianhall.org.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 18
BLUE PLATE SPECIAL. 5 p.m. or 7:30 p.m. Chef Luke Owens of Native Fine Diner and Julep Contemporary Kitchen in Greenville hosts his Blue Plate Special series. Each part of the series will feature a limited-seating, multi-course tasting menu created in collaboration with that month’s guest chef. For this event, Matt Register of Southern Smoke BBQ in Garland brings his deeply North Carolina–centered talents, grounded in barbecue tradition and rural diner culture. Tickets are $125 plus tax. Native Fine Diner, 907 Dickinson Ave., Greenville, NC 27834. Info: www.eatatnative.com.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 27
WINTERVILLE WATERMELON FESTIVAL. Celebrate one of Eastern North Carolina’s summer traditions at the Winterville Watermelon Festival, where carnival rides, live music, parades and classic fair food create a high-energy community celebration. The festival brings together everything from watermelon-eating contests to craft vendors and headline concerts, filling the town with lively entertainment and summer spirit. This event runs through Aug. 30. Winterville Recreation Park, 324 Sylvania St., Winterville, NC 28590. Info: www.watermelonfest.com.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5
LIVING HISTORY DAY. 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Step into a full day of Civil War-era living history at New Bern Battlefield Park, where reenactors bring a military camp to life through drills, demonstrations and immersive storytelling. The event builds toward powerful moments like artillery firings and a staged military trial, offering a vivid look at soldiering life and 19th-century battlefield routines. This is a free event. New Bern Battlefield Park, 300 Battlefield Trail, New Bern, NC 28560. Info: newbernhistorical.org.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6
FLATLAND CAVALRY. 6:30 p.m. Flatland Cavalry brings its signature country sound to an open-air stage at Roanoke Island Festival Park, set against a coastal Outer Banks backdrop. The performance moves through heartfelt, high-energy songs that carry a warm, easygoing summer feel. Tickets cost $50. Roanoke Island Festival Park, 1 Festival Park, Manteo, NC 27954. Info: info@livefromobx.com or www.roanokeisland.com.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11
CHRISTIE LENÉE. 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. Christie Lenée brings her emotionally rich fingerstyle guitar performance to The Old Theater, blending transcendental folk-pop with intricate, expressive instrumentals. The performance creates a quiet, immersive atmosphere that highlights both technical skill and emotional depth. General admission to this event is $30. The Old Theater, 609 Broad St., Oriental, NC 28571. Info: (252) 249-0477 or www.oldtheater.org.
INDIAN SUMMER FESTIVAL. Head to historic downtown Hertford for the Indian Summer Festival, where live music, local vendors, food trucks and family-friendly activities bring the streets to life. The weekend will showcase community favorites such as dancing and outdoor fun that highlight the best of local culture and connection. This event runs through Sept. 12, and times vary by day. Downtown Hertford, 128 N. Church St., Hertford, NC 27944. Info: (252) 380-6832 or www.downtownhertford.com.
COLLARD FESTIVAL. Celebrate a beloved Eastern North Carolina tradition at the Ayden Collard Festival, where live music, parades, contests, carnival rides and local vendors create a lively atmosphere. The weekend blends a collard eating contest, pageants, artisan booths and performances that keep the energy going well into the evening. The festival runs through Sept. 12, and times vary by day. Main Stage Ayden, 4144 West Ave., Ayden, NC 28513. Info: (252) 375-8095 or aydencollardfestival.com.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12
BATH MARITIME HERITAGE. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Celebrate the establishment of the Colonial Navy by the Continental Congress on Sept. 13, 1775, with demonstrations of all things naval: ropemaking, signal flags, maps, working tar kiln, spinning and weaving. Learn about Bath and its role in the naval life of the Colony. Historic Bath, State Historic Site, 100 S. Harding Street, Bath, NC 27808. Info: (252) 741-6030 or events.dncr.nc.gov/historic-bath.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15
BLUE PLATE SPECIAL. 5 p.m. or 7:30 p.m. Chef Luke Owens of Native Fine Diner and Julep Contemporary Kitchen in Greenville hosts his Blue Plate Special series. Each part of the series will feature a limited-seating, multi-course tasting menu created in collaboration with that month’s guest chef. Preeti Waas of Cheeni in Durham will close the series with a perspective shaped by Indian home cooking and storytelling through food. Tickets are $125 plus tax. Native Fine Diner, 907 Dickinson Ave., Greenville, NC 27834. Info: www.eatatnative.com. EB