New Year's Eve Activities in Wilmington, North Carolina

The city of Wilmington, which is tucked away on the coast of North Carolina near the Cape Fear River, is a charming place full of small town history with big city aspirations. During the Christmas holidays the city springs to life and there are a variety of different activities that any family can enjoy. New Year's Even is no exception to this. Wilmington and the surrounding areas offer several events for those that choose to party and those that want to keep it low key but have a memorable time. You won't be disappointed if you choose Wilmington to be your Big Apple on New Year's Eve. Here are just a couple of different events for all people:

New Year's Eve Riverboat Cruise
Who ever said you had to ring in 2006 on dry land? The Henrietta III, the popular local cruise line, takes advantage of the Cape Fear River area by offering a New Year's Eve riverboat cruise down the river. The Henrietta III, a favorite for locals and visitors, is serves as a wonderful place for occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, and even weddings. On this night, the festivities will include party favors, hors d'oeurves, and a DJ that is sure to keep the party going all night. The cruise includes the traditional toast at the end of the night when the clock counts down to twelve o'clock.
The Henrietta III and Captain Carl Marshburn will be departing at 9PM and returning at 12:30 AM with boarding to be scheduled for 8:30 PM. The cruise departs from Water and Dock Streets. The Henrietta III will board thirty minutes prior to departure and parking can be found at the specified locations around downtown Wilmington. Also, look for the parking garages in downtown Wilmington for additional parking.

The cruise will go out rain or shine, so don't worry about the prospect of bad weather. Tickets are sixty-five dollars per person and pre-paid reservations are required due to high demand and lack of space. You're sure to have a memorable time at the New Year's Even Henrietta III cruise. Here is the following contact information:

New Year's Even Riverboat Cruise
Water and Dock Streets; Wilmington, North Carolina
1-800-676-0162

Island of Lights New Year's Even Countdown Party
This New Year's Eve party will be held in Kure Beach, which is just a few miles away from Wilmington and located near Carolina Beach. For those that want a safe, more controlled atmosphere then this is for you. This family style party is alcohol free and has a beach theme, which is a load of fun. Take a loved one or friend and dance in the street to live beach music, eat the delicious food, and drink coffee or hot chocolate while cuddling under a blank on the beach. I couldn't think of a better way to bring in the New Year. The peak of the night is when the enormous beach ball descends at midnight and a New Year begins. There is also an ocean side fireworks display. Unlike the last event, this party is free to the public and begins at ten o'clock. Kure Beach and Carolina Beach have great parking systems so you don't have to arrive too early to get a spot. This party will be a beach style blast and is fun for the whole family.

Island of Lights New Year's Eve Countdown Party
Kure Beach
(910) 458-7116, (910) 458-5507