The Southport Wooden Boat show is one of the year’s final fall festivals in NC’s Brunswick Islands, which means you don’t want to miss it! To prepare you, we’ve gathered everything you need to know ahead of attending the 17th Annual Southport Wooden Boat Show:
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Schedule and Signature Events
The Southport Wooden Boat Show takes place on the first Saturday in November every year. In 2026 the Southport Wooden Boat Show is taking place on November 7 from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. in downtown Southport.
Wooden Boats on Exhibit
It wouldn’t be the Southport Wooden Boat Show without them! Wooden boats of all shapes and sizes are on display both in and out of water. Grab a closer look and speak with the boatwrights who crafted them.
- Boats on exhibit along West Moore Street and Caswell Avenue
- In-water boats on exhibit along the docks at Admirals Harbor in the Southport Yacht Basin
Wooden Boat Building Demonstrations
Students from Cape Fear Community College’s wooden boat building program will hold traditional steam bending demonstrations.
Using a wooden steam box, steam bending is a centuries old technique used to bend and shape the wooden planks used to build a wooden boat. Watch as the group works quickly but carefully to construct a wooden vessel.
Vendor Market
Intermixed with wooden boats on display, local maritime and nautical arts and crafts vendors will line Moore Street and Caswell Avenue. Whether shopping for Southport souvenirs, a gift for the boat captain in your life, or just casually looking, there’s sure to be something that catches your eye.
Other Events TBA
Traditionally volunteer organizers for the Southport Wooden Boat Show hold their annual “Taste of the Cape Fear” event during the day’s activities. Participants can purchase a ticket that includes a bowl of award-winning seafood chowder from The Frying Pan, a dessert, and a drink. Stay tuned for details!
The folks over at Southport Water Tours also traditionally hold harbor tours throughout the day. Departing from the docks near Fishy Fishy Café, their expert captains and a local guide provide an entertaining tour and a view of Southport from the water.
Getting to Southport and Parking
- Please visit our Map and Travel Information page for more information on average travel times, regional airports, and a map of NC’s Brunswick Islands to help you reach downtown Southport.
- Street parking in downtown Southport is free. However you can expect some road closures to accommodate the festival’s footprint, particularly on Moore Street and Caswell Avenue.
Where to Stay
In addition to hosting the Southport Wooden Boat Show, the charming town of Southport is also a great homebase for your stay. With numerous restaurants in close vicinity, family friendly things to do, and the nearby beaches of Oak Island and Caswell Beach you won’t regret extending your weekend trip! Plus, November is the season to take advantage of off-season rates on vacation rental homes and shorter stays at hotels and bed & breakfasts across the Brunswick Islands.
After attending the Southport Wooden Boat Show you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to explore the rest of NC’s Brunswick Islands. For more information about each of our island beaches and details including restaurants and things to do, please visit our Islands and Towns page.
Entry Information
The Southport Wooden Boat show is free to attend for folks of all ages.
However, tickets are required for the to be announced “Taste of the Cape Fear.” Stay tuned for more details.
For details on how to enter a wooden boat for display, please contact the festival organizers at www.southportwoodenboatshow.com.
Join the Fun
For help planning the rest of your visit to North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands ahead of the Southport Wooden Boat Show please visit www.ncbrunswick.com. You can also request a complimentary copy of our NC's Brunswick Islands Vacation Guide to make planning fun!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When and where is the Southport Wooden Boat Show held?
The Southport Wooden Boat Show is held on the first Saturday of November (November 7 in 2026). The festival’s events are concentrated in downtown Southport along Moore Street, Caswell Avenue, and the Yacht Basin.
2. Is the Southport Wooden Boat Show free?
The Southport Wooden Boat Show is free to attend and fun for the entire family.
3. Can I bring my dog to the Southport Wooden Boat Show?
Yes! Leashed pets are welcomed.
4. Where can I park for the Southport Wooden Boat Show?
Parking is free across downtown Southport, although visitors can expect road blocks on West Moore Street and Caswell Avenue. We recommend parking near Waterfront Park, along East Bay Street, Howe Street, or East Moore Street.
5. Is the Southport Wooden Boat Show accessible?
Yes. Downtown Southport is accessible for wheelchair users; however visitors should be mindful of uneven pavement and gravel surfaces that may extend into areas of the festival’s footprint.