In case you think that November is mainly just about football and Thanksgiving-think again! Our area is fortunate to host several annual events which have become treasured traditions for scores of locals and visitors. A few have also been recognized as top attractions in the southeast by several venues including the Southeast Tourism Board, TripAdvisor, and Go Magazine. Here’s a look at 4 events that truly make the 11th month special!
- The Cucalorus Film Festival – Can you believe it’s celebrating its 21st anniversary? Heralded as one of the largest independent film festivals in the south, this year it takes place from November 11th through the 15th. A number of downtown venues are screening an amazing variety of over 200 films. Come on down and find out why Movie Maker Magazine dubbed Cucalorus, “One of the Coolest Film Festivals in the World-2015.” For schedules and ticket info please use this link: http://www.cucalorus.org
- The Turkey Trot – Ready, set, burn those pre-Thanksgiving calories on the big day, November 26th and benefit the Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity in the process! As always, the race gets underway at Wrightsville Beach Park with on-site registration at 7:00 am. There’s a 1-Mile Fun Run and 5K-come early to snag a much-coveted Turkey Trot tee. For more information or to register, use this link: https://its-go-time.com/2015-wrightsville-beach-turkey-trot/
- The 32nd Annual Holiday Flotilla – From the festival in the park to the fireworks that follow the flotilla, this one’s not to be missed folks! Make plans to attend all of the festivities this year on Saturday, November 28th. The festival at Wrightsville Beach Park is known for bringing in an outstanding collection of fine arts and crafts vendors as well as great food and fun activities for the kids. It is the prefect place to do a little holiday shopping and enjoy lunch or an early dinner. At 6:00 pm, the celebrated boat parade begins its spectacular cruise around Banks Channel and is followed by one of the area’s most impressive fireworks displays. Plan your strategy for all of this year’s flotilla fun: http://www.ncholidayflotilla.org/boat-parade/
- Enchanted Airlie – This marks the 10th year for the magical holiday light show at Airlie Gardens. Each evening brings a different line-up of activities for kids of all ages, plus local musical talent. Over 750,000 festive lights, holiday refreshments and a visit from Santa truly make this one of the season’s most special events! Enchanted Airlie runs on select weekends and week days from 5:00 until 9:00 pm beginning on November 27th through December 22nd. Please note, that many dates have already sold out-ticket info is available through this link: http://www.visitnc.com/event/enchanted-airlie