Welcome to Wilmington Riverfest!
An annual celebration of community and culture showcasing the historic Cape Fear riverfront in Downtown Wilmington, North Carolina.
Riverfest is a cherished celebration, held each year on the first full weekend in October. This free, family-friendly street fair draws thousands of locals and visitors, transforming the Historic Downtown Wilmington.
Featuring an exciting lineup of live bands, diverse food trucks, unique vendors, and activities for all ages, Riverfest highlights the beauty of Wilmington and the strength of our community. Everyone, from first-time visitors to returning attendees, will find joy and create lasting memories at this beloved event!
Trips To Discover has voted Wilmington Riverfest one of the TOP Seven Festivals to Visit in North Carolina!
Block Party Redefines Riverfest!
A new addition to the celebration, the Block Party makes Wilmington Riverfest truly unique! As the sun sets over the Cape Fear River on Saturday evening, the celebration begins with a headlining band followed by an awe-inspiring drone show dancing across the sky.
This noise-sensitive, wildlife-friendly show offers a fresh alternative to traditional fireworks, delighting families, pet owners, and veterans alike. Don’t miss the magic of innovation and creativity illuminating the night sky at Riverfest!
A Celebration for All
Riverfest relies on the generous sponsorships and donations from local businesses and organizations, making it a true community effort. The festival generates an annual economic impact of over $13 million for Historic Downtown Wilmington and beyond with more than 114,000 residents and visitors attending each year—93% of attendees being families. Come experience the charm of Historic Downtown Wilmington, NC, and enjoy a weekend by the beautiful Cape Fear River as we celebrate our vibrant community.
A Special Thanks to Our Sponsors
Our 2025 Wilmington Riverfest Pageant Sponsors!
Our 2025 Media Sponsors
