by Wilmington, North Carolina — Halloween weekend is almost here, and families across Wilmington are preparing for pumpkin hunts, costume celebrations, spooky movie screenings and trick-or-treat activities. With Halloween falling on Saturday, October 31, 2026, the final days of October offer several opportunities to enjoy local events before the holiday arrives.
For anyone searching for Halloween events in Wilmington, NC, in 2026, the schedule includes free downtown entertainment, children’s museum activities, pumpkin carving and family-friendly celebrations. Several events are scheduled between October 28 and October 31, giving residents options for both weekday outings and Halloween Saturday.
Halloween Events in Wilmington on October 28
Families can start with Halloween-themed library activities on Wednesday, October 28.
Pine Valley Library is scheduled to host Halloween Storytime from 10:15 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. Children can enjoy seasonal stories in a family-friendly setting.
Later that day, Northchase Library is scheduled to screen Hotel Transylvania from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The free library movie program offers an option for families looking for Halloween entertainment without attending a late-night event.
Things to Do in Wilmington on October 29
On Thursday, October 29, Airlie Gardens is scheduled to host Spooky Mushrooms: Friend or Foe? from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. The children’s program combines nature education with a seasonal activity. Advance registration is required, so families should confirm availability before attending.
Another option is the Cape Fear Community College Student Veterans Organization Trunk-or-Treat, scheduled for 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. in student parking lot No. 2 at 700 North Front Street. The event features decorated vehicles handing out candy, with costumes encouraged.
Free Halloween Events in Downtown Wilmington on October 30
Friday, October 30, brings a major community celebration to the downtown riverfront.
Celebrate Downtown is scheduled for 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Riverfront Park, 10 Cowan Street. The free event includes Halloween treats, lawn games, music, food trucks and opportunities to explore police and fire vehicles. An outdoor screening of Hocus Pocus is scheduled for 6:45 p.m.
Visitors can also consider A Colonial Apparition River Cruise, scheduled from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The themed cruise explores local ghost stories and Cape Fear River history. Tickets are listed at $40 for adults, and visitors should verify availability with the operator.
Halloween Events in Wilmington on October 31
Saturday offers several activities for families celebrating Halloween.
The Eek! Week Festival at the Children’s Museum of Wilmington is scheduled for 9 a.m. to noon. Activities include pumpkin slime, crafts, a courtyard pumpkin party, treats and opportunities to explore the museum’s interactive exhibits. Tickets are listed at $15 for general admission and $5 for members.
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The city is also listing Pumpkin Carving at Halyburton Park from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at 4099 South 17th Street. The program includes a pumpkin for each registered participant and themed nature activities, with participation available to those ages six and older. Registration is required.
Families can also visit downtown for The Great Downtown Pumpkin Hunt from noon to 4 p.m., searching for pumpkins hidden at participating businesses. Northchase Library’s Spooky and Silly Celebration, scheduled for 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., offers crafts, games and a scavenger hunt.
What Time Is Trick-or-Treating in Wilmington, NC?
The City of Wilmington has not published a confirmed citywide residential trick-or-treat schedule in the available information. Families should check neighborhood announcements before heading out rather than assuming that organized event hours apply to door-to-door trick-or-treating.
Parents should accompany younger children, use reflective accessories after dark and inspect candy before it is eaten.
Plan Your Wilmington Halloween Weekend
From free downtown festivities to pumpkin carving and children’s museum activities, Wilmington has several ways to celebrate Halloween in 2026. Check registration requirements, ticket availability, parking information and updated event schedules before travelling.
Which Halloween event are you planning to attend in Wilmington? Share your favorite local activities and help other families discover ways to celebrate this weekend.
