Music Sounds Better at the Beach!
beachbumlocal • July 10, 2026
Slow Down and Listen to the Music!
Nothing says summer on Pleasure Island quite like the mix of salty air, crashing waves, and live music. Whether you are looking to dance on the beach, catch a massive fireworks show, or relax with your lawn chair by the ocean pavilion, our twin beach towns have a spectacular lineup of free outdoor concerts all summer long.
Grab your flip-flops, your favorite beach blanket, and check out the ultimate guide to live music in Carolina Beach and Kure Beach this summer!
🎸 Thursday Night Boardwalk Blasts (Carolina Beach)
Where: Carolina Beach Boardwalk Gazebo Stage
When: Thursday nights (plus select holiday Fridays) | Music from 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM, Fireworks at 9:00 PM
Admission: Free!
The classic Boardwalk Blast series is back, bringing incredible cover bands, tribute artists, and high-energy party music straight to the heart of Carolina Beach. Best of all, the music is paired with a spectacular beachfront fireworks show at 9:00 PM.
Local Tip: Space on the boardwalk and the adjacent sand fills up fast! Plan to arrive a bit before 6:30 PM to grab a parking spot, secure a great viewing area for your beach chairs, and maybe grab a famous hot donut or a cold drink before the band takes the stage.
🌊 Boogie in the Park (Kure Beach)
Where: Kure Beach Ocean Front Park & Pavilion
When: 1st & 3rd Sunday of the month (through October) | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Admission: Free!
If you are looking for a more laid-back, family-friendly vibe, head just down the road to Kure Beach for the Boogie in the Park concert series. Set right against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean at the beautiful Ocean Front Park pavilion, it’s the absolute perfect way to wind down your weekend.
Throw your lawn chairs or beach blankets on the grassy lawn and groove to everything from funk and blues to classic pop.
Upcoming Summer & Fall Dates:
- Sundays in July & August (First and third Sundays, excluding major holiday weekends)
- Bonus Season Closer: Don't miss the legendary Farewell Summer Jazz Funeral on Friday, October 2nd from 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM, featuring the Port City Players leading a true New Orleans-style procession to close out the warm months!
Kure Beach Sunsets, Food Trucks, and Music Series
Where: Blakeslee Air Force Recreation Area at 118 Riverfront Road (Kure Beach)
When: 2nd & 4th Fridays in July, August, and September
Admission: Free!
Bring your own chair and listen to the music at this great outdoor venue while viewing the gorgeous sunset! Food trucks are parked and ready to serve! Good Hops Brewing & Something Cool Ice Cream at EVERY concert. See the schedule below!
JULY 10 The Faux King Band // T'Geaux Boys
JULY 24 Petty Mac Revue // Port City Plates
AUG 14 Joe Kopple & Wild East Band // City BBQ
AUG 28 Kenny Reeves & Trainwreck // City BBQ
SEPT 11 John Hussmann // Trio Poor Piggy's
SEPT 25 The Hatch Brothers // Port City Plates
Local Venues for Live Music
Want to find local music on the off-nights? Pleasure Island's vibrant bar and restaurant scene keeps the party going all week long. Be sure to check out the daily summer calendars at local staples like:
- The Sandspur – Live music with a great outdoor space!
- Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar – Sip a cocktail directly over the ocean on their famous literal-pier tiki bar while listening to acoustic sets.
- Seawitch – Great food and drinks, and regular live music on their outdoor deck.
- Carolina Beach Pier - You can find a variety of music to listen to as you enjoy a great view of the island while having a delicious meal and drink!
Sandy Toes and Salty Notes: Your Guide to the 40th Annual Carolina Beach MusicFest
The wait is finally over! The air is getting warmer, the sea breeze is feeling just right, and the beaches of Pleasure Island are officially calling your name. Whether you’re a local or planning a quick getaway, the next few weeks are packed with events that celebrate the best of our coastal community. From running for a cause to indulging in the finest local eats, here is what you can’t miss in Carolina Beach and Kure Beach this month: Kick Off the Luck of the Irish (March 14) The spirit of St. Patrick’s Day is taking over the island on Saturday, March 14. Start your morning with a burst of energy at the LoTide Run . It’s a fantastic way to get moving, enjoy the scenery, and support a great cause. After you cross the finish line, keep the green beer flowing! The island will be buzzing with St. Patrick’s Day celebrations all day long. Expect live music, festive outfits, and that signature coastal hospitality at your favorite local spots. A Foodie’s Dream: Restaurant Week (March 14 – March 21) If you love great food, clear your schedule. Starting March 14 and running through March 21, it’s Pleasure Island Restaurant Week! This is the perfect opportunity to visit that spot you’ve been meaning to try or revisit an old favorite. Our local chefs are pulling out all the stops with special menus and deals that showcase the unique flavors of Carolina and Kure Beach. You can find the full list of participating restaurants and all the delicious details at the Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce website . The Ultimate Comfort Food: Mac & Cheese Festival (March 21) What better way to wrap up a week of eating than with the cheesiest event of the year? On Saturday, March 21, head over to Good Hops Brewing for the Mac and Cheese Festival, hosted by the Island Men. Sample a variety of gooey, creative mac and cheese dishes from local competitors while enjoying some of the best craft beer in the area. It’s family-friendly, delicious, and always a highlight of the spring season. The Beach is Waiting Beyond the events, the best part of March is simply being outside. The sun is out, the sand is warm, and the pace of life is just right. Whether you’re walking the boardwalk, hiking through the State Park, or just sitting by the waves at Kure Beach, now is the time to soak it all in. We’ll see you out there on the sand!
🎄 Coastal Christmas Cheer: Holiday Events in Carolina & Kure Beach For renters visiting in December, you're in luck! Carolina Beach and Kure Beach host the annual Island of Lights Festival , which transforms the area into a festive coastal wonderland with unique holiday celebrations. Here are the key events for the Christmas season: ⛵ Weekend of Lights: Parades and Flotilla These events are the highlight of the season and typically take place the first weekend of December: Carolina Beach Christmas Parade Location: Lake Park Blvd Date and Time: Friday, December 5 at 7:00pm Description: A classic small-town, nighttime parade featuring festive floats, marching bands, community groups, and the grand entrance of Santa Claus! Island of Lights Christmas Flotilla Location: Carolina Beach Yachy Basin to Snow's Cut Date and Time: Saturday, December 6 at 6:00pm Description: A stunning display of boats and vessels decked out in thousands of twinkling lights as they cruise the Intracoastal Waterway. Viewing is free along the waterfront. Christmas Palm Tree Lighting Location: Kure Beach Ocean Front Park Date and Time: Sunday, December 7 at dark Description: A unique coastal tradition! Watch the palm tree at the Ocean Front Park light up for the holiday season. ✨ Month-Long Holiday Cheer Beyond the parades, there are plenty of ongoing opportunities to enjoy the festive spirit: Island of Lights: Lighting at the Lake Location: Carolina Beach Lake Park Details: The festival officially kicks off the day after Thanksgiving, and the beautiful light displays circling the lake remain lit throughout December and into the new year. It's perfect for an evening stroll. Island of Lights Holiday Home Tour Location: Various homes on Pleasure Island 2025 Date: Typically Saturday, December 13th (Check for ticket availability and exact times) Details: Get a peek into the local hospitality as residents open their beautifully decorated homes for a self-guided tour. A great way to enjoy southern Christmas charm Kure Beach Holiday Whoobie Whatty Location: Kure Beach Ocean Front Park 2025 Date: Typically Friday, December 19th Details: A fun, family-friendly event with a playful holiday theme. This gathering often includes games, activities, and sometimes a Grinch-themed celebration! Island of Lights New Year's Eve Celebration Location: Carolina Beach in 2025. Alternates between Carolina Beach and Kure Beach. Date: Wednesday, December 31st Details: Ring in the New Year with a DJ, dancing, a giant beach ball drop at midnight, and an amazing fireworks display over the ocean! 🛍️ Holiday Shopping Kure Beach Holiday Market : You may find smaller markets on select Saturdays in December, offering local arts, crafts, and unique gifts, often held at the Ocean Front Park. Book your stay today so you don't miss any of the Christmas events on Pleasure Island!
