Living on the coast during the holidays feels a little magical. Sure, we hang lights on houses and trees like everyone else — but here in Coastal Carolina, even the water joins the celebration. As December approaches, our rivers, inlets, and Intracoastal waterways come alive with twinkling lights as entire communities gather to watch one of our most beloved traditions: the holiday flotilla.
If you’re new to the area, a flotilla is essentially a boat parade — but not just any boat parade. Local boat owners deck out their vessels with thousands of lights, inflatables, holiday characters, tropical decorations, and anything else that spreads cheer. After sunset, these glowing boats cruise along the water while crowds gather on the shore to cheer them on. It’s festive, beautiful, and uniquely coastal — the kind of holiday moment you only get when you live by the water.
Below is your 2025 Coastal NC Holiday Flotilla Calendar
(covering Onslow, Pender, New Hanover, and Brunswick Counties )
Holiday Flotilla & Boat Parade Calendar
? New Hanover County
-
Wrightsville Beach Holiday Flotilla
November 28th – Fireworks + one of the largest lighted boat parades in the Southeast -
Carolina Beach Christmas Flotilla
Early December – A festive ICW parade featuring local boaters, lights, music & community celebrations
? Brunswick County
-
Ocean Isle Beach Holiday Flotilla
Saturday after Thanksgiving – A classic OIB tradition along the ICW and canals -
Southport Winterfest Flotilla
Part of Southport’s Winterfest Week – Lighted boats gliding along the beautiful Southport waterfront
? Pender / Topsail Area
-
Greater Topsail Area Christmas Flotilla
Early December – Boats depart from Bush Marina and parade through the picturesque ICW into Surf City
? Onslow County
-
Swansboro Christmas Flotilla
Early December – A charming holiday celebration along the White Oak River with festive waterfront events
And if you’re dreaming of life on the coast…
Events like these are a reminder of what makes coastal living so special — community, traditions, and memories that come with living near the water. If you’re thinking of making the Wilmington area your home, Just For Buyers Realty is here to help. We work exclusively with buyers, so your best interests are always our top priority. Whether you’re searching for a waterfront condo or a home in one of our charming inland neighborhoods, our team is ready to guide you every step of the way.