Here is your guide to local family-friendly events from April 24 to April 26
BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC — The fourth weekend of April brings a surge of community activity across the region. Here are 10 top-rated activities and events spanning from Southport to the South Carolina border:
1. Days at the Docks Festival (Holden Beach)
This beloved annual tradition is the unofficial start of spring on Holden Beach. The two-day event features arts and crafts vendors, live music on the pavilion, and a spectacular display of boats. For the kids, there’s a dedicated children’s area with inflatables and face painting.
-
Don’t Miss: The famous Bopple Race on Sunday afternoon, where plastic “bopples” are dropped from the bridge to race toward the finish line for prizes.
2. Strawberry & Wine Fest (Sunset Beach)
Head to Sunset Beach Town Park on Sunday for a sweet and relaxing afternoon. While adults sample local wines, children can dive into fresh strawberry shortcakes and other berry-themed treats. The festival also features local artisans and live music.
-
When: Sunday, April 26, starting at 12:00 p.m.
3. Coastal Garden Club Flower Show (Shallotte)
Get inspired by local flora at the Coastal Garden Club’s biennial flower show, “Quilted Flowers,” held at the Shallotte Presbyterian Church. It’s a wonderful, educational stroll for kids to learn about flowers, horticulture, and stunning floral designs in a colorful setting.
-
When: Friday, April 24 (1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.) and Saturday, April 25 (9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.)
4. Family Clay Day (Leland)
The Leland Cultural Arts Center is hosting a hands-on workshop specifically for families. Perfect for ages 5 and up, this session allows children and parents to work together to create unique ceramic projects in a professional pottery studio.
-
When: Saturday, April 25, from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
5. Touch Tank Feeding at the Museum of Coastal Carolina (Ocean Isle Beach)
A perennial favorite for families, the Museum of Coastal Carolina offers a dedicated touch tank feeding session. Children can interact with sea stars, urchins, and horseshoe crabs while learning about the fascinating marine life native to the Brunswick coastline.
-
When: Friday, April 24, at 11:00 a.m.
6. Nature Preserve Hike (Brunswick Nature Park)
With the trees blooming and the weather warming, it is the perfect weekend to explore the 900+ acres of Brunswick Nature Park. Families can hike the distinct trails through wetlands and pine forests or utilize the kayak launch to explore Town Creek.
7. Spring Book Sale (Southport)
Introduce the kids to the joy of reading and treasure hunting at the Spring Book Sale hosted by the Friends of the Library Southport & Oak Island. This sale features a large selection of children’s books, puzzles, and games at very affordable prices.
-
When: Saturday, April 25, starting at 9:00 a.m.
8. Cardboard Box Paddle Race (Holden Beach)
As part of the Days at the Docks festival, this hilarious race on Saturday is a must-see for all ages. Participants construct vessels entirely out of cardboard and attempt to paddle a specified course. It’s high-energy, creative, and guaranteed to produce lots of laughs.
9. Hermit Crab Races (Holden Beach)
Also on Saturday, bring your competitive spirit to the docks for the annual hermit crab races. It is a quirky and surprisingly fast-paced local tradition that is always a major hit with younger children, who get to pick and cheer for their favorite crustacean.
10. Historic Southport Stroll
Take a step back in time with a family walk through historic Southport. With the waterfront park looking pristine in spring, it’s the perfect time to visit the NC Maritime Museum, explore the historic Garrison House grounds, and grab ice cream on Moore Street while watching the ships on the Cape Fear River.
© 2026 BCDollarSaver.com. All rights reserved.
Be the first to comment