Some say, the best things in life are free. Others say there is no such thing as a free lunch, but that isn’t always the case here on Pleasure Island. Each year Carolina Beach and Kure Beach host dozens of free events. Many of these events are held each week so no matter when you choose to visit Pleasure Island you’ll find the best in free family-friendly events on the North Carolina Coast. Of course we can’t share all the events of the summer, but here are some of the best events, free or otherwise, that you’ll want to be sure to check out this summer.
Free Music Events
What is a beach vacation without free live music? Certainly not a Pleasure Island beach vacation. This year Kure Beach has two free concert series that you won’t want to miss. These are toe-tapping family-friendly music events that are free and open to the public
Boogie In The Park
Boogie In The Park takes place the first and third Sunday of the month all summer long. The event is perfect for the little ones and adults alike. Beginning at 5 p.m. and wrapping up at 7 p.m., you’ll have time to dance the afternoon away and still be home at a reasonable time. This takes place at the Ocean Front Park, 105 Atlantic Drive, Kure Beach.
Summer Concert Series-Fort Fisher
Fort Fisher is a great place to visit, but even better on the second and fourth Friday all summer long. From 6:30 p.m to 8:30 p.m. the fort comes alive with the free live music. For details on the summer line-up, we have included the event’s poster. Don’t forget to bring chairs or a blanket as there is no seating available. All events are handicap accessible, and there is no alcohol or open containers allowed.
Carolina Beach Music Festival
Beach music is unlike any other genre of music you’ll experience, and North Carolina is the epicenter of the beach music community. For 33 years the Carolina Beach has hosted this great event. “Shaggers” from all over the region love this annual event. For those that are new to Beach Music, “Shagging” is the dance of choice when listening to beach music. Tickets are $25.00 in advance or $30.00 at the door. The event takes place on June 2,
Movies By The Lake
All summer long the Carolina Beach Lake Park hosts free movies by the lake. Just picture a giant screen, the cool ocean breezes, the smell of popcorn in the air, and you have the Movies by the Lake Series. All movies are family-friendly and open to the public. Please make sure to bring chairs or a blanket as there is no seating. All movies begin at dusk, but it is recommended you get there early if you want the best seat in the house…we mean park. Feel free to bring your own snacks and drinks. To find the park head over to 400 S. Lake Park Blvd, Carolina Beach, NC or call (910) 458-8434.
Family Night Carolina Beach Boardwalk
Tuesday nights are family night on the historic Carolina Beach Boardwalk. Bring the whole family for a night of games, rides, music, and treats on one of the tops boardwalks in the nation. Tickets are not free but very reasonable, and the rides are appropriate for all ages so nobody is left out at this great event. For more information on the boardwalk check out our previous post: The Carolina Beach Boardwalk: A Carolina Beach Tradition!
Fireworks By The Sea
Here on Pleasure Island, we figure why have fireworks just one time a summer when you can have them every Thursday night! A tradition your family is going to love is the Thursday night fireworks, by the sea. The show starts at 9:00 p.m. and is free to the public. For the best place to view the fireworks head over to the strand along the Carolina Boardwalk and enjoy the show with the cool ocean breeze.