Events

Storytime at the main branch of the Onslow County Public Library. Hosted every Tuesday in two different sessions at 10:30 AM and 11:30 AM.

Storytime at the main branch of the Onslow County Public Library on Thursdays is held in three different sessions at 9:30 AM, 10:30 AM, and 11:30 AM.

Gather the family for a Family Night of Laughter at the Jacksonville Commons Amphitheater! Comedians Jeremy Alder and Mark Gregory take the stage for an evening of family-friendly entertainment and plenty of laughs. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, find a comfortable spot, and enjoy a fun-filled summer evening under the stars.

Head to Fort Macon State Park for Cannon Day, a living-history program featuring hands-on demonstrations of the fort's historic artillery. Kids and parents alike can watch and learn how cannons helped defend the coast back in the 19th century. It's a fun, educational outing for history-loving families of all ages.

SwanFest at the Pugliese Pavilion heads into August with The Dust Parade bringing the music to the Swansboro waterfront! Grab your lawn chairs and bring the family for a free Sunday evening of live music by the water. A perfect late-summer outing for all ages. Free admission, 6:30–8:00 PM!

Grab your binoculars and join a guided Bird Hike along the scenic coastline at Fort Macon State Park! Families will explore the trails together while learning to spot local and migrating birds that flock to this beautiful destination. It's a relaxing, nature-filled morning perfect for young explorers.

Lace up as a family for Jacksonville PD's annual Running with the Law! Choose the 5K, 10K, or a family-friendly 1-mile fun run, then cheer each other on at the downtown finish line. Every finisher gets a t-shirt and medal, with proceeds supporting NC Special Olympics.

Shake it out at the Main Library's Dance Party! Kids get moving with music and games in this free, high-energy program the whole family can enjoy together.

Drop by the Main Library for Free Art Friday, a hands-on craft session for the whole family. Kids explore open-ended art activities in a relaxed, creative setting — no registration needed and completely free.

Baby Book Club at the Main Library introduces little ones and their caregivers to early-literacy fun — stories, songs, and playtime designed for babies and toddlers. Free to attend.

Bring the family to Community Canvas at the Main Library for a shared painting session. It's a free, laid-back way for kids and grown-ups to create something together.

Unwind and reconnect as a family with a relaxing outdoor yoga session at Riverwalk Park! Arts in the Park: Family Yoga is open to all ages and skill levels — enjoy gentle movement and breathwork in a beautiful waterfront setting as the sun goes down. All are welcome. Free to attend!

SwanFest keeps the music flowing at the Pugliese Pavilion with Pure T Mommicked performing on the Swansboro waterfront! This free Sunday concert series is one of the best parts of summer in Swansboro — bring the kids, bring your chairs, and enjoy the show. Free admission, 6:30–8:00 PM!

Express Yourself at the Main Library gives kids a free, creative outlet through hands-on art activities. Families are welcome to explore and create together.

Unleash your creativity at Arts in the Park: Canvas Painting at Georgetown Park Shelter! Families of all skill levels are invited to paint their own masterpiece in a relaxed, outdoor setting. Whether you are a seasoned painter or picking up a brush for the first time, it is sure to be a fun evening. Free to attend!

It's A Big DILL Pickleball Block Party brings a full day of tournament play to Kerr Street Park, with divisions for beginners through advanced players, live music, and food trucks for spectators. Registration is $20; open to ages 16 and up.

Say goodbye to summer and hello to the new school year at the Back to School Bash! Kids can enjoy a bounce house, face painting, and splash zone activities while families pick up free school supplies. Free haircuts and physicals are also available on-site, plus games and more for the whole family. It's free to attend — just show up ready to have fun!

SwanFest at the Pugliese Pavilion features the Michael Schott Band for a free waterfront concert in Swansboro! Enjoy a warm August evening by the water with the whole family as the music fills the air. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and make a night of it. Free admission, 6:30–8:00 PM!

Wrap up the summer craft series at the Main Library with Friday Unearthed: Create — a free, drop-in session of hands-on activities and creative play for the whole family.

Get the whole family moving at Jacksonville Commons for a fun-filled Family Field Day! Enjoy classic outdoor games and friendly competition including relay races, tug-of-war, sack races, obstacle courses, and group challenges. It is a fantastic day of teamwork, laughs, and fresh air for all ages. Free to attend!

SwanFest wraps up August at the Pugliese Pavilion with The Conspiracy, an arena rock tribute band playing classic hits from the 70s through 90s! This free waterfront concert is a fantastic night out for families who love classic rock. Grab your chairs and get ready to sing along. Free admission, 6:30–8:00 PM!

SwanFest closes out the season at the Pugliese Pavilion with Henry Bitzer for one final free waterfront concert in Swansboro! Celebrate the end of a wonderful summer with family and friends as the music carries across the water. Bring your chairs, come early, and soak it all in. Free admission, 6:30–8:00 PM!

Cheer on the world's most talented golden retriever at Movies in the Park! Air Bud is the classic family favorite about a lovable dog with an incredible talent for basketball that's sure to have the whole family laughing and cheering. Activities start at 5:45 PM with the movie at sundown — bring your blankets and chairs. Admission is free!

Round up the family for a one-of-a-kind arts and crafts experience at Wooten Park! Arts in the Park invites kids and parents to color and customize their very own cowboy or bucket hat to take home. It is creative, it is fun, and it is completely free — just show up and let the creativity flow!

Join the Town of Holly Ridge for a family movie night under the stars featuring The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe! Gates open at 7:30 PM at the Holly Ridge Ballfield, with the movie starting at sundown. Concessions will be available, so bring your friends and family, pack a blanket or chairs, and enjoy the evening together. Free to attend!

Wrap up the concert season in style at the Jacksonville Commons Amphitheater with Oc3ans, part of the Jammin Jacksonville Summer Concert Series! Bring your blankets and lawn chairs for a free evening of live music under the October sky. Food vendors will be available. Show runs 7-9 PM. Free and open to all!