Written by Colin Tate
Colin writes for Better Beach Rentals, offering local insight and travel tips to help visitors get the most out of their stay on Oak Island.
Christmas on the North Carolina coast can look a little different from the snowy scenes you’ll see on a holiday card. Instead of bundling up for freezing temperatures, you can spend your holiday break strolling through festive streets, browsing local shops, or watching unique coastal light displays. Oak Island holiday celebrations bring together community traditions, family-friendly events, and plenty of opportunities to make memories with the people you love. Here are some of our favorite ways to celebrate the season along the Carolina coast.
Want the latest Oak Island vacation news and specials? Sign up for our newsletter today!
In This Article:
- Kick Off the Holidays at the Oak Island Christmas Tree Lighting
- Check Out Southport's Winterfest
- Visit a Specialty Christmas Store in Southport
- Shop at Oak Island Holiday Markets
- Catch the Christmas by the Sea Parade
- See Christmas Lights on the Water
- Spend This Christmas on the Coast
Kick Off the Holidays at the Oak Island Christmas Tree Lighting
If your stay starts early in the month, one of the best ways to get into the holiday spirit is to attend the annual Oak Island Christmas tree lighting. Held at Middleton Park Complex, this festive gathering typically features plenty of Christmas-themed activities, kid-friendly entertainment, and the big moment when the community tree lights up for the season.
It’s a great early December holiday outing for families and can be especially memorable for groups with younger children. Be sure to check the local event calendar closer to your trip for the specific date and time.
Check Out Southport's Winterfest
The neighboring community of Southport also gets in on the festivities early. In addition to hosting its own downtown tree lighting, the historic city hosts a set of holiday events during the annual Winterfest.
The local celebration lasts a little over a week and pairs well with an afternoon spent visiting downtown’s independent shops and eateries. Depending on the day’s schedule, you might find decorating contests, holiday movie screenings, craft markets, and more.
Visit a Specialty Christmas Store in Southport
If you want to keep the Southport festivities going, make room in your itinerary for a stop at The Christmas House. Housed in a historic home, this specialty shop features rooms full of ornaments, home decorations, collectibles, and unique gifts.
It also offers more than just a stop for shopping. Browsing the shop’s intricate displays this time of year feels like stepping into an entirely different world.
You can pick up a new tree ornament to commemorate your trip, find a thoughtful gift for a loved one, or simply take in the store’s festive atmosphere.
Shop at Oak Island Holiday Markets
If the Christmas store in Southport leaves you looking for more seasonal shopping, consider keeping the fun going at an Oak Island holiday market. The town’s seasonal craft market at Middleton Park Complex has local vendors showcasing a range of handmade goods, decorations, and gift ideas you won’t find anywhere else. Be on the lookout for special crafts, jewelry, sculptures, and other one-of-a-kind finds while supporting small businesses and regional artists.
Catch the Christmas by the Sea Parade
For a classic local tradition, plan to attend Oak Island’s annual Christmas by the Sea Parade. Decorated floats, festive music, and appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus make the island’s streets the site of an exciting community gathering.
The parade typically takes place in early December, making it a great addition to tree-lighting ceremony plans. Try to arrive early to find the best spot for your crew along the route.
See Christmas Lights on the Water
Christmas lights are always a holiday staple, but in coastal North Carolina, they also take to the water. Southport’s Christmas Flotilla brings the season to the Cape Fear River waterfront, where boats decked out in colorful lights and festive displays cruise past shoreline spectators.
The event brings a unique coastal spin to a familiar tradition, plus the reflections on the water add another layer to the spectacle. It’s a great evening excursion for families, friend groups, or couples.
Spend This Christmas on the Coast
Featured Oak Island Vacation Rental: Sea Crest II
From community celebrations and handmade gift markets to glowing boat parades and quiet afternoons on the beach, Oak Island offers plenty of ways to fill a Christmas vacation itinerary.
Make this holiday season one to remember when you book an Oak Island vacation rental with Better Beach! Our event-friendly homes, properties with private hot tubs, and dog-friendly accommodations make it easy to find the perfect home base for your crew’s Christmas plans. View our available units and lock in your December dates today!