Lake Linda’s Christmas Lights
Kick off the season with Lake Linda’s Christmas Lights, a dazzling drive-thru display featuring hundreds of twinkling lights synchronized to holiday music. Tune your radio, enjoy the glow, and don’t forget to bring a new toy to donate. Located just off U.S. Hwy. 17 in Surf City near Bojangles, Lake Linda lights up Thanksgiving evening and shines throughout the holidays.
Southern Lights at The Gardens of Southeastern North Carolina
Stroll through a winter wonderland during Southern Lights at The Gardens of Southeastern North Carolina in Willard. The gardens sparkle with festive brilliance from Nov. 21 through Dec. 23. Tickets are available now at johnsonnursery.com.
All is Bright Festival at Poplar Grove Plantation
The All is Bright Festival returns to Poplar Grove Plantation Nov. 28–Dec. 21. Enjoy visits from Santa, roast s’mores, and take in the beautiful lights across the historic grounds. Tickets are on sale at poplargrove.org/festivals/all-is-bright.
Topsail Christmas Market & Flotilla
Celebrate the coastal way at the Topsail Christmas Market and Topsail Christmas Flotilla on Dec. 13 at Soundside Park in Surf City.
- The market opens at noon with more than 50 vendors offering unique gifts and home décor.
- Santa and Mrs. Claus will visit from 3–5:45 p.m.
- At 6 p.m., the Flotilla sets sail from Bush Marina in Topsail Beach and heads north to Soundside Park. The best-decorated boat wins $1,000! To register, visit topsailchamber.org/events.
Bundle up and enjoy the Burgaw Christmas Parade on Dec. 13 at 5:30 p.m. This beloved nighttime parade lights up downtown with floats, fire trucks, and a visit from Santa himself. The parade circles the historic Pender County Courthouse Square — bring your lawn chair and join the tradition!
Blueberry Drop on New Year’s Eve
Ring in the New Year the Burgaw way! The Blueberry Drop returns Dec. 31 with live music, vendors, and food trucks starting at 5:30 p.m. The famous blueberry drops at 7 p.m. (midnight GMT) — a fun, family-friendly way to welcome 2026.
Community Tree Lightings
Join neighbors and friends for these joyful tree lighting celebrations across Pender County:
- Surf City: Nov. 22, Soundside Park
- Topsail Beach: Nov. 29, parade at 5 p.m. followed by the tree lighting in Town Center
- Burgaw: Nov. 29, 5–7 p.m. on the Pender County Courthouse Square
- Hampstead: Dec. 5, 5:30–7:30 p.m. at Hampstead Kiwanis Park
