The holidays are in full swing here in Wilmington, from the annual Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony and drone shows on the Riverwalk, to the DBA’s Battle of the Bulbs competition among local business owners—it’s all just around the corner!
Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony in Downtown Wilmington
Hosted by the Downtown Business Alliance, the Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony is an annual event that kicks off the festivities in Wilmington!
Head to Market Street and Water Street for free hot chocolate, live entertainment, free visits with Santa, and of course, the tree! Celebrations start at with tons of local craft and artisan booths to stroll through in Vendor Village. Bring the whole family! After a day of local shopping, this is the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit.
The Holiday Tree Lighting entertainment starts at 5:30 PM on November 28th.
Holidays on Water Drone Show
Photo credits: Wilmington Downtown and Wilmington and Beaches
Looking for some festive lights in the sky? Then, head to the Wilmington Riverwalk for one (or all) of the holiday drone shows, where a hundred drones compose dazzling displays over the water for one of the most magical scenes in town! Performances start at 7:30 PM, and are scheduled for December 6th, 13th, 20th, and 27th. If you want to learn more, click here.
Battle of the Bulbs Downtown Wilmington Decorating Contest
Finally, one last way to soak up the glow this season. If you’re strolling around and wondering why just about every corner is looking extra festive, it’s because the annual Battle of the Bulbs competition is underway.
Every year, the Downtown Business Alliance hosts a healthy contest between local businesses. They’re battling it out for cash prizes in three different categories, and they always bring their best.
If you want to learn more and get involved in this festive showdown, keep reading…
People’s Choice Award
One way businesses win is by competing for the People’s Choice Award, which goes to the business with the most votes. This is where you come in. Voting for your favorite display is a fun way to be active in our community. Also, you have an excellent excuse for checking out all the illuminated businesses, right?
You can browse this page for a list of the participating businesses and to plan your outing around town. Then cast your vote and be sure to tell the owners that they’re your favorite!
Last Year’s Winners
Or, as we like to say, this year’s defending champions! Take a look at last year’s winners, and get an idea of what to look for in each display.
Getting excited? Us too! Wander around town to explore this year’s fabulous displays, then cast your vote!
