Best Christmas Light Displays in Wilmington, North Carolina

Historic Wilmington on the coast of North Carolina offers some of the best scenery throughout the year. Whether it's the sand and surf at Wrightsville Beach or the infectious charm of historic downtown Wilmington, it has proven to be visually stunning. The Christmas season is no exception. The town of Wilmington springs to life during this holiday season and provides many opportunities for the locals and visitors to spread the holiday cheer by attending the events. Some of the best events in Wilmington are the light displays. If you're in the Wilmington area during this holiday season, here are just a few of the light displays that you may want to check out.

Candle Tea
This event not only specializes in a beautiful light display but it is much more. The event starts on the first Saturday in December, and is held at the Covenant Moravian Church in Wilmington between 10AM to 2 PM. You can take a break from the cold outside and seek the warmth of the inside, where you can take a free tour of the church and receive an explanation of the Moravian history. The church offers spiced tea and sweet Moravian cookies to add some warmth to your holiday spirit. You'll see men wearing the traditional Moravian attire while women are busying themselves by making Moravian stars and candles. These items are available for you to take home afterward. The peak of the day is the Nativity scene which has a special sound and light show. It's truly beautiful. Please contact the following number for more information.

Candle Tea
Covenant Moravian Church, 4126 S. College Rd.
Wilmington (910) 799-9256

Airlie Gardens' Enchanted Airlie: A Holiday Light Show
Airlie Gardens is one of the areas most popular spots for locals and visitors. Throughout the year, visitors can take a tour of the neatly manicured landscaping and impressive flower displays that are just minutes away from Wrightsville Beach. During Christmas season, you can capture the magic at Airlie Gardens by attending the Holiday Light Show. Enjoy the musical entertainment and refreshments while you view the impressive show of landscaped lighting and colorful lighted displays. These lights run from Thanksgiving weekend through Christmas, so you have plenty of time to stop by Airlie Gardens and see one of Wilmington's proudest attractions. Contact the following number for more information on admission and fees:

Airlie Gardens' Enchanted Airlie: A Holiday Light Show
300 Airlie Rd., Wilmington
(910) 798-7700

Island of Lights Festival
Just down the road from Wilmington in Carolina Beach you'll find a light show that is sure to get you in the holiday mood. This lights festival features a number of events, most of them not requiring any kind of admission fee. This begins with the Light Up the Lake on the Friday evening before Thanksgiving. The next Friday includes a Christmas Parade, and that Saturday a Holiday Flotilla featuring boats of all sizes and styles runs from Snow's Cut to Carolina Beach. If you still want more, the Island of Lights Tour of Homes is held the following Saturday. It gives you the opportunity to test different refreshments and baked goods while you enjoy Southern hospitality at its finest level. You'll go on a self-guided tour to some of the area's most elegant homes. Contact the following number for more information.

Island of Lights Festival
Various locations, Carolina Beach and Kure Beach
(910) 458-7116, (910) 458-5507