Special Rate Parking Notice
Beginning October 3 through December 26, 2026, parking in the Market Street and 2nd Street Decks will be $5 on Saturdays with the first hour still free! We hope you will stay downtown awhile to visit restaurants, shops, the riverwalk, and more with this special rate for the holiday season.
The Downtown Services and Special Events Department helps create a vibrant, welcoming downtown for residents, businesses, and visitors. The department manages special events and film permitting, city sponsored and produced events; coordinates with downtown services such as parking, public safety, and asset management; and oversees the City's contracts with the Wilmington Convention Center and Wilmington Downtown Inc., to support community activities and enhance the downtown experience.
Upcoming Permitted Events
Downtown Services and Special Events has approved permits for the following events. For additional information on listed events, please contact specialevents@wilmingtonnc.gov to be connected with the event organizer.
- Sunday, Oct. 11. Pumpkins and Purrs
- Saturday, Oct. 17. IRONMAN 70.3 North Carolina
- Sunday, Oct. 19. Annual 7th & Chestnut Block Party
- Friday, Oct. 23. Falcon Fright Night
- Thursday, Nov. 26. Turkey Trot
- Friday, Nov. 27. Tree Lighting
- Saturday, Nov. 28. Holiday Market on Dock; Small Business Saturday; District Day
- Sunday, Nov. 29. Holiday Parade*
- Saturday, Dec. 5. CVB Drone Show; Santa Saturday; Historic Half Marathon
- Saturday, Dec. 12. CVB Drone Show; Santa Saturday; Dashing Through the Glow*
- Saturday, Dec. 19. CVB Drone; Santa Saturday
*City of Wilmington Produced Events