Carolina Beach Air Show: The Complete Guide to Wings Over Carolina Beach
- Event: Wings Over Carolina Beach Air Show
- Dates: Friday, April 24 & Saturday, April 25, 2026
- Rain Date: Sunday, April 26, 2026
- Location: Carolina Beach Boardwalk, Carolina Beach, NC
- Admission: Free (donations support the ILM Aerospace Foundation)
- Presented By: Wilmington International Airport (ILM)
The skies over Carolina Beach are about to get loud. Wings Over Carolina Beach returns April 24–25, 2026, bringing a weekend of high-energy aerial performances, live music, and boardwalk energy to one of North Carolina's favorite coastal towns. Whether you're a local, a Wilmington day-tripper, or driving in from out of town, here's everything you need to know to make the most of the weekend.
When Is the 2026 Carolina Beach Air Show?
The airshow runs two days:
- Friday, April 24, 2026 — Aerial performances begin at 3:00 PM
- Saturday, April 25, 2026 — Aerial performances begin at 2:00 PM
Pre-show live music kicks off earlier both days at boardwalk venues, so there's plenty of reason to show up early and make a full afternoon of it.
What You'll See in the Sky
This year's show celebrates aviation history and the thrill of flight with a mix of aerobatic performers and historic WWII-era aircraft. Expect:
- Precision formation flying
- Loops, aileron rolls, and barrel rolls
- Cuban Eight maneuvers
- Opposing solo aerobatics
- A dramatic rejoin for the finale
- The unforgettable sound of 600-horsepower radial engines
The aerial lineup includes:
- Chris Thomas of Warbird Thunder performing a single-ship demonstration
- Rooster delivering high-energy aerobatic maneuvers
- RJ Gritter performing dynamic aerial demonstrations
- Warbird Thunder closing with a powerful two-ship performance
The show opens with the National Anthem and a flag ceremony performed by local Civil Air Patrol cadets — a nice local touch before the engines roar to life.
Where to Watch: Best Viewing Spots
All performances are visible from the Carolina Beach Boardwalk and the adjacent beach. The primary spectator area is centered on the boardwalk.
The Boardwalk (Prime Spot): If you want the energy, the crowd, and easy access to food, drinks, and bathrooms, this is it. Fun fact — the Carolina Beach Boardwalk was named one of the top 10 boardwalks in the country by Food & Wine magazine. Get there early; it fills up fast.
The Beach: For a more relaxed experience, bring a blanket or low beach chairs and set up on the sand on either side of the boardwalk. You'll get the same spectacular views without the boardwalk crowd pressure.
Pre-Show Live Music
Boardwalk venues host live music before the show, so you can eat, drink, and settle in before the action starts overhead:
- Sunny Daze Smokehouse — Music from 12:00 PM Friday, 11:30 AM Saturday
- Silver Dollar / Top Dollar — Music from 12:00 PM Friday, 11:30 AM Saturday
- Hurricane Alley's CB — Music from 12:00 PM Friday only (Saturday is a private event)
Show up early, grab lunch, catch a set, and you're already in the perfect spot when the show starts.
Parking: Read This Before You Leave the House
Parking is the number one thing that ruins air show day for out-of-towners. Here's how it actually works in Carolina Beach:
Paid parking is in effect March 1 – October 31, 9 AM – 8 PM. Current rates:
- Town parking lots: $6/hour or $25/day
- Premium lots: $7/hour or $35/day (enforced year-round)
- On-street parking: $5/hour (no daily rate)
- Bus, limo, or oversized vehicle: $10/hour or $40/day
- Weekly visitor pass: $100 (available at Town Hall, the Parking Office, or online)
Payment is via the ParkMobile app or at pay stations in the lots. Parking is managed by Pivot Parking (910-458-4614, office at 1708 Canal Drive). Handicap spaces are free when displaying a valid placard. For the full official rundown, see the Town of Carolina Beach Parking page.
Parking reality for event days:
- Boardwalk-adjacent lots fill first — arrive before 11 AM for a realistic shot
- On-street parking away from Lake Park Boulevard is often overlooked
- Rideshare drop-offs can back up significantly as the show approaches
Insider tip: Park further out and walk. Anything within a half-mile of the boardwalk turns into a parking lot (literally) by early afternoon. A 10-minute walk beats a 45-minute traffic crawl.
What to Bring
- Sunscreen — there's no shade on the boardwalk or beach
- Hats and sunglasses — especially if you're sensitive to sun glare
- Low beach chairs or blankets — high-back chairs may be restricted in certain areas
- Water and snacks — food vendors will be available but lines get long
- Hearing protection for young kids — those 600-horsepower radial engines are LOUD, and little ears can be sensitive
- Camera or zoom lens — your phone will do, but aviation enthusiasts will want more reach
- Cash or card for donations — all donations during the event support the ILM Aerospace Foundation
Rules to Know
Attendees are required to follow all Town of Carolina Beach rules and ordinances. The big ones:
- No alcohol on the beach — it's illegal within Carolina Beach town limits
- No glass containers — also prohibited
- No dogs on the boardwalk — dogs aren't allowed on the Carolina Beach Boardwalk or in the Boardwalk Business District at any time
- Weapons and safety rules apply — check the Town of Carolina Beach website for full details
For the full list of beach rules, pet policies, and what's allowed on the sand, visit the Town of Carolina Beach Beach Strand page.
Getting There
From Wilmington: Take US-421 South about 15 miles. Traffic backs up significantly on event days — give yourself extra time.
From Raleigh: Roughly 2.5 hours via I-40 East and US-421 South.
From Myrtle Beach: About 75 miles north via US-17 North.
From out of state: Wilmington International Airport (ILM) is the closest airport, about 30 minutes from Carolina Beach. Fitting, given ILM is the presenting partner for the show.
Where to Eat Nearby
The boardwalk is packed with food options. A few standouts worth knowing about:
On the Boardwalk:
- Britt's Donuts — Boardwalk institution since 1939, famous glazed donuts hot from the fryer (seasonal, typically April–October)
- Sunny Daze Smokehouse — BBQ and live music venue
- Hurricane Alley's CB — Seafood, cocktails, live music
- Silver Dollar / Top Dollar — Casual bar food and drinks
- Olde Salty's — Local icon, 20+ years serving Carolina Beach
- The Tropical — Three-story spot with rooftop bar
- Nauti Dog — Gourmet hot dogs with vegan and gluten-free options
Short walk from the boardwalk:
- Havana's Restaurant — Seafood, steak, and pasta (1 N Lake Park Blvd)
- Salt Fish Restaurant and Tiki Bar — Caribbean and Polynesian flavors
- Kate's Pancake House — Breakfast favorite
- Michael's Seafood Restaurant — Carolina Beach staple
- Ocean Grill and Tiki Bar — Oceanfront dining on a pier
- Malama Café — Healthy breakfast and bowls near the Courtyard Marriott
- Pop's Diner — Carolina Beach's only late-night diner, open seven days a week
Where to Stay
If you're making it a weekend, Carolina Beach has options for every budget:
- Courtyard by Marriott Carolina Beach Oceanfront — The only oceanfront Marriott in NC, directly steps from the boardwalk
- Hampton Inn & Suites Carolina Beach Oceanfront — Reliable chain with direct beach access
- Golden Sands, Tapestry Collection by Hilton — Oceanfront rooms with balconies, home to Ocean Grill and Tiki Bar
- The Boardwalk Inn — Private beach area, walking distance to everything
- The Savannah Inn — Oceanfront, one block from the historic boardwalk
- The Beach House — Oceanfront at 412 Carolina Beach Avenue North
Vacation rentals (Airbnb and VRBO) are also plentiful but book up fast for event weekends. Staying in Wilmington and driving in is another popular option — more lodging and restaurants, about 20 minutes from the show.
More Than an Airshow: Supporting the Next Generation
Wings Over Carolina Beach isn't just a free weekend of aviation — it's a fundraiser for the ILM Aerospace Foundation, which expands access to aerospace education, career pathways, and hands-on learning opportunities across the region. While admission is free, guests are encouraged to donate at the event to help inspire the next generation of pilots, engineers, and aerospace leaders.
Make It a Double-Header: Kure Community Fest (Saturday Only)
If you're going Saturday, there's a second event happening just down the road that pairs perfectly with the airshow: Kure Community Fest, Saturday, April 25 from 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM at Ocean Front Park and Atlantic Avenue in neighboring Kure Beach.
The lineup includes:
- Live music from ReSoul Band (opening and closing the day)
- No Sleeves Magic comedy magic show from 12:30–1:30 PM
- Family activities including rock painting, a citizen science project, mini golf, a bounce house, costumed characters, and local artisan/crafter vendors
- Food trucks: T'Geaux Boys, Well-Fed Ed's Smoothie Star Trailer, Donut Bus, RAWsalsa, and Joe's Mom's Travel Snacks (plus downtown Kure Beach restaurants)
Parking bonus for Saturday: The Town of Kure Beach has waived paid parking enforcement in all Town-owned spaces for the day. If Carolina Beach parking is stressing you out, park free in Kure Beach, catch Kure Community Fest from 11–3, then head up to the Carolina Beach Boardwalk for the 2:00 PM airshow. Kure Beach sits directly south of Carolina Beach on the same island.
This is a solid play for families — community festival in the morning, airshow in the afternoon, one day, one trip.
What to Expect
Crowd size: Expect thousands of spectators across both days. Friday tends to be lighter than Saturday.
Noise level: Loud. Enjoyable loud, but parents of toddlers and pet owners should plan accordingly.
Vibe: Family-friendly, patriotic, festive. A lot of locals bring chairs and make a full beach day of it.
Weather: Coastal NC in late April is usually beautiful but can turn quickly. Check the forecast before heading out — a tentative rain date is set for Sunday, April 26 if Friday/Saturday performances are impacted by severe weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Carolina Beach Air Show free? Yes. Admission is completely free. Donations during the event support the ILM Aerospace Foundation.
What time does the air show start? Aerial performances begin at 3:00 PM on Friday, April 24 and 2:00 PM on Saturday, April 25.
Where is the best place to watch the Wings Over Carolina Beach Air Show? The Carolina Beach Boardwalk offers the primary spectator experience. The beach on either side of the boardwalk is also excellent, with a more relaxed atmosphere.
How much is parking at Carolina Beach? Town parking lots are $6/hour or $25/day, premium lots are $7/hour or $35/day, on-street parking is $5/hour, and oversized vehicles (bus/limo) are $10/hour or $40/day. A weekly visitor pass is available for $100. Payment is via the ParkMobile app. Enforcement runs 9 AM – 8 PM.
Can you bring chairs and coolers? Chairs and blankets are fine. Alcohol and glass containers are prohibited on the beach within Carolina Beach town limits.
Are dogs allowed at the air show? Dogs are not allowed on the Carolina Beach Boardwalk or in the Boardwalk Business District at any time. If you're bringing a dog, plan to stay on approved beach sections well outside the event area.
Is the air show family friendly? Absolutely. It's one of the most kid-friendly events in the region. Just plan for noise, sun, and the usual beach-day logistics.
What happens if the weather is poor? Safety is always the priority. If weather is poor, a tentative rain date is set for Sunday, April 26, 2026. Weather-related updates will be posted to the official event website and social channels.
What aircraft and maneuvers will be performed? Expect WWII-era historic aircraft alongside modern aerobatic performers. Planned maneuvers include precision formation flying, loops, aileron rolls, barrel rolls, Cuban Eight maneuvers, opposing solo aerobatics, and a dramatic formation rejoin for the finale.
Will there be food and drinks available? Yes. Boardwalk restaurants, bars, and food vendors will be open throughout the event.
How long does the air show last? Aerial performances typically run about 2–3 hours, with pre-show music and activities extending the experience several hours on either end.
Looking Ahead: The Thunderbirds Are Coming in 2027
Here's the part most people don't know yet: the 2026 Wings Over Carolina Beach Air Show is a warm-up act. The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds are scheduled to headline a much larger air show over Carolina Beach on September 11–12, 2027.
That means if you love what you see this weekend, next year's show is going to be on another level entirely. Mark your calendar — the Thunderbirds rarely perform on the East Coast, and a beachside demonstration is about as good as it gets.
Plan Your Weekend
Wings Over Carolina Beach 2026 is shaping up to be one of the best free weekends on the Cape Fear coast this spring. Get there early, plan your parking, bring sunscreen, consider a donation to the ILM Aerospace Foundation, and enjoy the show.
For more things to do in the Wilmington area, check out our other guides to local events, beaches, and hidden gems.
Check our events calendar for downtown events, live music, festivals, and more happening in Wilmington.