The beauty of NC's Brunswick Islands extends beyond the beach to the art galleries, markets, and festivals where local artists showcase their one-of-a-kind works of art.
Whether you are interested in immersing yourself in the local arts scene, in search of a special souvenir, or want to learn how to make your own coastal-inspired art from the experts themselves, let’s explore some of the arts and crafts destinations across NC’s Brunswick Islands!
Visit Local Art Galleries
After a day in the sun, spend an afternoon exploring the many art galleries in the Brunswick Islands.
Southport
Visitors to the town of Southport will be especially delighted to find multiple art galleries along the oak-lined side streets and nestled in between Victorian-style homes.
- Artisans Gallery on Howe - host “Art on the Porch” demonstrations for visitors and locals looking to learn new art techniques
- Franklin Square Gallery - originators of Southport’s art-loving tradition, the “First Friday Gallery Walk" (more info below) and regularly host seasonal art shows and featured exhibitions
- Ricky Evans Gallery
- Southport Studio Artists
- Lantana's Gallery & Fine Gifts
- The Artisans Gallery on Howe
- Soul Flow Gallery & Studio (Located in Southport Village Shoppes)
Calabash
Located further south in Calabash is Sunset River Gallery. This 10,000 square foot gallery contains the work of over a hundred local and regional artists and rotates with new work every six to eight weeks. In addition to welcoming those in search of beautiful art, the gallery regularly hosts classes, workshops, and demonstrations for those looking to develop their own skills.
For a complete list of art galleries, including boutiques and art shops in NC’s Brunswick Islands, check out the map below:
Art Events Happening in the Brunswick Islands
Stunning art and craftmanship can’t be contained in the Brunswick Islands. Here creativity spills out onto the streets at the many family-friendly festivals, events, and markets taking place throughout the year!
Southport "First Friday Gallery Walks"
Connoisseurs and curious minds alike are invited to pop into participating Southport art galleries to speak with featured artists and enjoy complimentary wine and appetizers. This free event is organized by the Southport Art Galleries Guild.
- Gallery walks take place the first Friday of every month from 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. (Note: First Fridays are not held in the months of January, February, and July).
- Free transportation to each of the participating galleries is provided by Southport Trolley.
Southport Plein Air Festival
- May 7-9, 2026
In the spring, artists from across the country gather for the Southport Plein Air Festival. You’ll find the artists happily answering questions from captivated onlookers while painting in every nook and cranny across Southport. The festival’s final day wraps up with additional programming including artisan demonstrations, live music, kids plein air art, and its famous wet paint sale.
North Carolina 4th of July Festival
- June 28-July 4, 2026
The North Carolina 4th of July Festival in Southport is a signature event in NC's Brunswick Islands. The festival's patriotic celebrations also include a three day arts and crafts vendor market along Bay Street in downtown Southport.
Sunset at Sunset Festival
- October 3, 2026
The Sunset at Sunset Festival in the town of Sunset Beach welcomes nearly 100 local vendors and artisans in a celebration of community creativity each October. This annual block party is fun for the entire family, with a dedicated kids' corner, foot trucks, and no shortage of shopping opportunities thanks to the unique handmade gifts, artisanal products, and gorgeous works of art lining the paths in Sunset Beach Town Park.
North Carolina Oyster Festival
- October 17-18, 2026
On the third Friday and Saturday of October, Ocean Isle Beach hosts the North Carolina Oyster Festival. This two-day event is the seafood festival of the year in the Brunswick Islands, but it also comes with a side of local crafts and artistry. Dozens of vendors selling painted glassware, soaps, woodcrafts, handcrafted clothing, and more attend.
North Carolina Festival by the Sea
- October 24-25, 2026
The NC Festival by the Sea kicks off in Holden Beach on the last Saturday and Sunday in October. This two-day festival features live music, food vendors, and of course, local art. This event is a fantastic one for the whole family.
Southport Winterfest
- December 2026
Once winter arrives, Southport’s Winter Craft Festival, part of the city’s Winterfest celebrations, is another fantastic festival where you’ll find homemade arts and crafts that make the perfect gift.
While in town, check out nearby Oak Island to see more work from local artists on the Oak Island Public Art Trail. From fantastical driftwood sculptures to eye-catching murals, the stops across the island are sure to ignite your inner creative spark.
Shop Seasonal Outdoor Markets
Outdoor markets are a summertime staple in the Brunswick Islands and they’re also fabulous places to support local crafters and artisans. From handcrafted jewelry, photography, gifts, and more, your suitcase will be full of goodies ready to take back home.
- See the seasonal outdoor market schedule or head to our Events page for more details.
Make Your Own Coastal Art
Ready to roll up your sleeves or pick up a paintbrush? There are many opportunities to do so in NC’s Brunswick Islands, starting with the seashells you collect on your daily beach walk. Check out our blog to learn how to create your own coastal crafts.
Sometimes the best souvenirs are the ones you make yourself. Below are just a few of the many creative opportunities, classes, and workshops you and your group can participate in while visiting the Brunswick Islands.
- Enjoy a “Paint & Party” at Sunset River Gallery; the perfect evening activity to bring the girls together over a glass of wine and a good time.
- Choose from a variety of classes, such as garden steppingstones, mixed media abstracts, and dichroic jewelry, at Seascape Designs in Ocean Isle Beach.
- Take a break and paint some pottery at Vincent Van-Go Pottery Painting & Gifts (formerly Cappuccino by the Sea) in Holden Beach. This activity is fun for all ages and perfect for families with young children.
- Attend a workshop at Pescado y Amor in Oak Island and discover new art styles such as batik and abstract.
Feeling inspired? Now it’s your turn to explore the arts and crafts destinations that capture the beauty of North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands! Visit ncbrunswick.com to start planning.
Updated in February 2026