Discover the Heart of Wilmington Riverfest
Epic Attractions!
Come Celebrate with Us!
Sponsors
Local Support, Brand Awareness
Street Fair
Enjoy Food, Art and Activities!
Volunteer
Be a Part of the Riverfest!
Become a Vendor
Showcase yourself!
About Wilmington Riverfest
Wilmington Riverfest is a cherished annual celebration that transforms the historic riverfront into a bustling hub of excitement and community spirit. Since its inception, the festival has grown into a beloved tradition, attracting visitors from near and far. Attendees can expect a weekend filled with live music, local cuisine, arts and crafts, and a spectacular fireworks display that lights up the night sky. Join us to experience the heart and soul of Wilmington and create lasting memories with family and friends.
Dive into Wilmington’s beloved annual tradition—a free, family-friendly street fair that transforms Historic Downtown into a vibrant hub of joy each October. From first-time explorers to lifelong fans, Riverfest creates unforgettable memories for everyone, earning a spot as one of the Top Seven Festivals in North Carolina by Trips To Discover!
Epic Attractions Await on the Riverfront
Headline fun including Riverfest Pageant, Live Music, Drone Show, BMX, Antique Cars & more!
Epic Highlights Await on the Riverfront
Headline fun including Riverfest Pageant, Live Music, Drone Show, BMX, Antique Cars & more!
Partner with Wilmington's Premier Festival
Sponsor Riverfest and Ride the Wave of Community Pride! Join the heartbeat of Wilmington by sponsoring Riverfest – the free, family-filled celebration that draws over 114,000 attendees (93% families!) to our historic Cape Fear Riverfront each October.
Your support fuels a $13 million economic engine for downtown, powers scholarships and local causes, and places your brand front and center with prominent logo placement on our website (September–June), event signage, commemorative pieces, and more. Be the hero businesses love to be: visible, valued, and connected to the magic that makes Wilmington shine. Let’s make waves together!
Become A Sponsor!
Reach 10,000+ families—logo on site, signage, social shoutouts, great ROI from past events.
Thank You to Our SPONSORS!
Explore the Vibrant Heart of Riverfest - Street Fair!
Join thousands of locals and visitors at the iconic Street Fair, the centerpiece of Wilmington Riverfest.
Stroll through Historic Downtown Wilmington and discover a lively array of arts and crafts vendors, diverse food trucks offering everything from turkey legs to gourmet treats, unique local artisans celebrating Eastern NC culture, and family-friendly activities that capture the spirit of community.
This bustling fair transforms the riverfront into a hub of excitement, perfect for shopping, dining, and soaking in the festive atmosphere.
Street Fair - Art on the River
Nothing says "festival" like the smell of turkey legs, waffle cones, and popcorn wafting through the air! Browse high-quality artisan booths featuring paintings, woodcarvings, jewelry, sculptures, and more. Local artists showcase their skills right on site, celebrating the essence of creativity in Eastern NC.
Have Something To Show?
We're thrilled to invite talented creators like you to showcase your unique, handmade treasures.
Have Something To Show?
We're thrilled to invite talented creators like you to showcase your unique, handmade treasures.
Volunteer Today!
Volunteers are the heartbeat of Riverfest, making our free, family-friendly festival possible through their passion and hard work. Each year, enthusiastic individuals assist with setup, logistics, event operations, and breakdown, contributing to an event that unites the community and boosts local economy.
Shifts are available during the festival weekend, and we welcome all who want to give back.
Be the spark that lights up Downtown Wilmington. Your hands help create unforgettable memories for 100,000+ families along the Cape Fear Riverfront.
Why Volunteer?
Every shift powers the magic – from riverfront fun to community impact.
Be part of something bigger: help keep the festival free, support local scholarships & causes, and celebrate Wilmington’s heart & soul. No experience needed – just your enthusiasm!
Why Volunteer with Riverfest?
Every shift powers the magic – from riverfront fun to community impact.
Be part of something bigger: help keep the festival free, support local scholarships & causes, and celebrate Wilmington’s heart & soul. No experience needed – just your enthusiasm!