Experience the Cape Fear Festival of Trees: free holiday fun supporting Lower Cape Fear LifeCare’s hospice and palliative care mission.
A Beloved Holiday Tradition Returns
The Cape Fear Festival of Trees is back for the 2026 holiday season! Lower Cape Fear LifeCare is excited to partner once again with the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher to bring this cherished community tradition to a new setting at Discovery Bay, inside Independence Mall.
From December 8, 2026, through January 3, 2027, visitors are invited to stroll through a festive display of more than 20 beautifully decorated Christmas trees created by local businesses, organizations, and community supporters. The trees will be displayed alongside the Aquarium’s Discovery Bay exhibit, bringing together holiday tradition and a unique new setting for this year’s celebration.
Kick Off the Season at Jingle & Joy
Before the trees light up Discovery Bay, join us the night before for the 2nd Annual Jingle & Joy Gala, presented by First Citizens Bank, on Saturday, December 5, from 6 to 10 p.m., at Aloft Wilmington at Coastline Center. Enjoy a festive cocktail hour, a chef-prepared dinner, live and silent auctions, and the fan-favorite Last Paddle Standing… all in support of Lower Cape Fear LifeCare’s mission. Tickets are $200 and available now.
Experience the Magic of the Season
Bring your family and friends and enjoy the creativity and holiday spirit of trees decorated by organizations throughout our community. Whether the Festival of Trees is part of your family’s annual tradition or this will be your first visit, we hope you’ll join us in celebrating its return.
Admission is free, and the Festival will be open during regular Discovery Bay/Independence Mall hours.
Cape Fear Festival of Trees
- December 8, 2026 – January 3, 2027
- Discovery Bay by the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher
- Inside Independence Mall, next to JCPenney
- 3500 Oleander Drive, Wilmington, NC
- Admission: Free
A Tradition with a Purpose
Beyond the lights and decorations, the Cape Fear Festival of Trees helps raise awareness and support for Lower Cape Fear LifeCare. Community support helps further our mission of providing compassionate hospice and palliative care, grief support, and other programs for individuals and families throughout southeastern North Carolina and northeastern South Carolina.
Come experience the magic of the holidays, admire the trees, and celebrate the return of a Cape Fear tradition.
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