Upcoming Events

Golden Tides: Celebrating 50 Years of the NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island

Celebrate 50 years of conservation, education, and community at Golden Tides, an elegant adults‑only (21+) evening at the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island on Friday, September 12, from 6:30–9:30 p.m. Enjoy exclusive after‑hours access to the Aquarium with live jazz, fresh local oysters from Cousin’s Oysters, heavy hors d’oeuvres by Johanna’s Catering, beer and wine, and stunning waterfront views. Explore the Aquarium at night, interact with Touch Pools, and watch the sunset from the Soundside Pier. Guests are encouraged to wear gold in honor of the Aquarium’s Golden Anniversary.

Each ticket includes animal encounters, oysters, hors d’oeuvres, two drink tickets, live jazz entertainment, and themed party gifts. Tickets are $75 for general admission and $65 for Aquarium members, with all proceeds supporting the nonprofit North Carolina Aquarium Society. Space is limited—reserve your spot and celebrate five decades of connection to North Carolina’s coastal waters!

Grab your tickets here: https://reservations.ncaquariums.com/society/Info.aspx?EventID=20

Sea-Lebration by the Sound

Join us for a special daytime celebration honoring the NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island’s 50th Anniversary! Sea‑lebration by the Sound is a family‑friendly event filled with hands-on activities, creative crafts, and interactive experiences inspired by coastal wildlife and our rich history.

Femme in STEM – continues at ‘Discovery Bay’

Femme in STEM is continuing—even while the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher undergoes its multi‑year renovation and expansion. We’re excited to invite exhibitors to join us for the 8th Annual Femme in STEM on Saturday, Sept. 26, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Independence Mall’s Center Court in Wilmington.

This signature event highlights leaders in STEM and inspires future scientists through hands‑on, immersive activities. With the recent opening of Discovery Bay, our new mini‑aquarium at the mall, we’re connecting with more visitors than ever before.
‘This event is special because of the immediate excitement sparked when children interact with the hands‑on exhibits,’ says Karissa Bearer, NCAFF Education Curator. Femme in STEM has grown tremendously since its start in 2019—now welcoming thousands of guests and nearly 100 exhibitors each year.

‘Hosting Femme in STEM at the mall opens the door for even more exhibitors and deeper engagement with families,’ adds Joanna Zazzali, NCAFF Director.
We’re seeking creative, inspiring exhibits that spark curiosity and wonder. Community members are encouraged to save the date, and STEM professionals are invited to apply as exhibitors. All exhibitors join our commitment to sustainability as we work to protect species and connect people with the natural world.

Boo! To Trash Beach Cleanup

Boo! to trash Beach Cleanup, because lets face it, trash is scary!

Hosted by the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, the Town of Carolina Beach, and the Carolina Beach Pier

Golden Gala

Reserve your place in a milestone celebration 50 years in the making. Join the North Carolina Aquarium Society at the Angus Barn Pavilion in Raleigh for the Golden Gala, an elegant evening honoring this extraordinary legacy and the people who have made it possible.

Race for the Planet

A community 5K and fun run supporting a healthier ocean and environment.

May the 4th Beach Cleanup

Do. Or do not. There is no try.

Wear Your Favorite Costume for a contest!
Cool prizes for the costume contest winner!

Memorial Day Weekend Beach Cleanup with Surfrider

Join us in cleaning up the beach just in time for the big holiday weekend! We provide the supplies, you provide the muscle and hustle!

Beach Cleanup

Did you know July 5 is the dirtiest beach day of the year? Help us keep the Crystal Coast clean after the July 4 fireworks!

Rock The Reef – 50th Anniversary Celebration

Celebrate 50 Years of Wonder duing an exclusive after hours event at the Aquarium. Ages 21 plus enjoy live dueling piano music, dancing, food and drinks. Dress up for a 70s-themed costume contest and celebrate the 50th in style. Tickets are $40 members, $50 nonmembers. Event sponsored by Southern Bank.