If you’re wondering whether there’s anything happening around here in March, the answer is simple: a lot.
From coastal history and comic book culture to Irish pride and barbecue by the river, the Cape Fear region is stacking two weekends in a row with can’t-miss events. Here’s a look at four of the biggest:
? The A250th: North Carolina Rice Festival
? Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson
? March 7, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
? Free to attend
If you love local history and cultural celebrations, this one belongs on your calendar.
Hosted by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, the North Carolina Rice Festival is a full-day celebration of the region’s agricultural roots and coastal heritage. Expect live music, historical speakers, cultural presentations, arts and crafts, food vendors, and multiple stages — including a Children’s Stage.
Partners like the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor and the North Carolina Arts Council help bring history to life with storytelling, performances, and hands-on experiences. It’s family-friendly, educational, and completely free — a perfect Saturday outing.
? Coastal Comic Con
? Wilmington Convention Center
? March 7–8, 2026
? Saturday 10 AM – 6 PM | Sunday 11 AM – 5 PM
That same weekend, downtown Wilmington transforms into a pop culture playground.
Coastal Comic Con brings more than 150 artists, vendors, special guests, and cosplayers together for two packed days. Whether you’re into Pokémon, Lego, comics, gaming, or just people-watching some incredible costumes, there’s something for every age group.
A fan favorite? The Children’s Cosplay Contest on Sunday at 4 PM — always a highlight.
Tickets range from single-day passes to full weekend admission, with discounted pricing for kids and free entry for children under five with a paying adult.
?? 25th Annual Downtown Wilmington St. Patrick’s Day Parade
? Front & Market Streets, Downtown Wilmington
? March 14, 2026 | 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
? Free for spectators
The following weekend, it’s time to wear your green.
The 25th Annual Downtown Wilmington St. Patrick’s Day Parade marches through historic downtown with bagpipes, Irish tunes, Celtic dance performances, and plenty of festive energy. The parade begins on Hanover Street and winds its way toward Dock Street, drawing families and visitors from all over the region.
Rain or shine, it’s one of those community traditions that officially signals spring has arrived.
? Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival
? Live Oak Bank Pavilion at Riverfront Park
? March 14, 2026
? VIP 12 PM – 6 PM | General Admission 2 PM – 6 PM
If the parade gets you downtown, you may as well stay for the barbecue.
The Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival turns the riverfront into a tasting experience featuring more than 150 beers and bourbons. Your ticket includes a souvenir tasting glass, access to seminars led by master distillers and pitmasters, live music, barbecue vendors serving everything from whole hog pulled pork to brisket and ribs — and even a pie-eating contest in honor of Pi Day.
General admission starts at $55, with VIP options available. Designated driver tickets are offered onsite. Valid ID is required for tastings, and this event typically sells out.
Two Weekends. Four Big Reasons to Get Out.
Whether you’re exploring centuries-old history in Brunswick County, snapping photos with superheroes downtown, cheering on bagpipes, or sampling bourbon by the Cape Fear River, March offers something for just about everyone.
It’s one of those months that reminds you why living in — or visiting — the Cape Fear region means you’re never far from something happening.