Christmas on the Coast

Although photos of snowy mountains are often what we associate with Christmastime, there is no better place to spend the holiday season than along our coast. With fewer crowds but plenty of events and activities, the coast is the perfect spot to start a new holiday tradition.

One of our most unique traditions is the holiday lighting of Battleship North Carolina in Wilmington. From now until Jan. 4, 2012, you can see Battleship North Carolina dressed in lights each night from downtown Wilmington. The ship is open every day, so while you are in town, you can walk her decks and experience a piece of North Carolina history. The ship participated in every major naval offensive in the Pacific Ocean during World War II.

Other special events include the Festival of Trees in Greenville and Christmas by the Sea at Carolina Beach. Over 100 different trees are a part of the Festival of Trees, and each one will be decorated to represent a different Christmas theme at the Greenville Convention Center. Help spread holiday cheer by attending because all proceeds go to Family Support Network Scholarships, benefitting families throughout Eastern North Carolina. Christmas by the Sea at Carolina Beach is also a beautiful sight to take in – the oceanfront coves on the boardwalk are decorated and special holiday activities are available each Saturday night through New Year’s Eve.

We would love to hear about your family holiday traditions – from the mountains to the coast. Please share them with us in the comments section below!

Image courtesy of Family Support Network of North Carolina