Wilmington Downtown, Inc. (WDI)

06/17/2026

Business Spotlight: Uptown Girls Nail Studio ✨

Nestled in the Castle Street District, Uptown Girls Nail Studio is redefining what it means to treat yourself, naturally. As the first nail salon on Castle Street, they’ve set the standard for thoughtful, wellness-focused nail care in the district.

This woman-owned, family-run business, co-owned by mother and daughter Heather and Emily Willis, has created a space centered on care, relaxation, and inclusivity, with a mission to prioritize the health of your natural nails while delivering beautiful, long-lasting results through their specialized natural-focused manicures and pedicures.

📍 906 Castle St.
🕒 Hours: Tue–Thu 10–5 | Fri 10–4 (Closed Mon, Sat & Sun)
Book your appointment here:
👉 http://www.vagaro.com/uptowngirlsnailstudio

Check out the link below to hear more from Emily and Heather on Uptown Girls Nail Studio!

https://youtu.be/C-ZKY48N5Wo?si=AeZMtY4qaj6MvX1l

06/15/2026

Celebrate Independence Day in Downtown Wilmington at the City’s annual Fourth of July Celebration!

Spend the evening along the riverfront with live music, family-friendly activities, and a fireworks show over the Cape Fear River. This year even features TWO fireworks displays along the Riverwalk for an expanded viewing experience!

Event details:
📍 Riverfront Park, 10 Cowan St.
🗓 Saturday, July 4 | 5:00–9:00 PM

Schedule:
• 5:30 PM – Gates open
• 6:30 PM – Live performances begin
• 7:30 PM – Wilmington Symphony Orchestra
• 9:00 PM – Fireworks (Riverfront Park AND the Barge near the Battleship)

Plan to arrive early, bring your crew, and enjoy one of Wilmington’s biggest summer traditions on the riverfront 🇺🇸

https://www.wilmingtonnc.gov/Events-directory/City-of-Wilmingtons-Fourth-of-July-Celebration

06/12/2026

Hello, weekend...we’ve been waiting for you!

To help you kick things off right, we pulled together a lineup of happenings around downtown. Check out what’s going on and start planning your perfect weekend vibes.

06/11/2026

Happening this month at ✨

Step into a story that moves, inspires, and sparks conversation with Hubblo Immersive

This visually stunning performance blends imagination, connection, and creativity in a way you won’t forget. Whether you’re a longtime theater lover or just looking for something new, this is your sign to experience something truly unique.

🎟️ Grab your seats now: https://www.thalianhall.org/hubblo

06/10/2026

Business Spotlight: The Cocktail Captain 🍸

Owned by Jon Fowler, this riverfront gem re-opened Memorial Day weekend last year. Located at 224 S Water St, The Cocktail Captain is your go-to spot for crafted drinks and laid-back vibes.

Experience thoughtfully crafted drinks made with house-made syrups, fresh purées, and hand-squeezed juices. The menu offers everything from cocktails and beer to wine, mocktails, and coffee, so there is something to match any mood. Make sure to order the Cosmo, which features their signature bubble, for a true taste of what they do best.

Grab some bar snacks, bring your pup (yes, they are dog friendly!), or book them for your next event. With stunning views of the Cape Fear River, especially at sunset, it is the perfect place to unwind.

📍 224 S Water St
🕒 Hours:
Weekdays: 11am–11pm
Weekends: 11am–12am

Check out the link below to hear more from Emma Schultz on The Cocktail Captain!

https://youtu.be/ix9zS6bIfDE?si=-WYcuCJX7qZAp11G

06/08/2026

Thank you to everyone who joined Wilmington Downtown, Inc. for our 2026 Economic Development Luncheon and Leadership Forum.

I want to sincerely thank the nearly 300 business leaders, elected officials, community partners, sponsors, and downtown stakeholders who took time out of their schedules to join us at the Wilmington Convention Center. Your attendance and support made this year’s event a tremendous success.

The conversations throughout the afternoon reinforced something we know well: downtown Wilmington continues to thrive because of the people and organizations willing to invest their time, talent, and resources into its future.

Thank you to our sponsors, speakers, volunteers, and partners for helping make this event possible. Your support allows Wilmington Downtown, Inc. to continue advocating for downtown, supporting our business community, and advancing initiatives that strengthen the heart of our city.

For those who would like to learn more about the discussions and announcements from the event, our media partner, WilmingtonBiz, has provided excellent coverage.

Thank you again for your continued support of downtown Wilmington. What began as a small organization in 1977 has grown into a community-wide effort fueled by individuals and organizations who believe in the value of a vibrant downtown. We are grateful to have you as part of that work and look forward to building on this momentum together.

And we’re not done yet. We look forward to seeing you again this fall for Wilmington Downtown, Inc. next event, where important conversations about downtown’s future will continue. Additional details will be announced in the coming months.

With appreciation,

Christina Haley
President and CEO
Wilmington Downtown, Inc.

06/05/2026

This & no plans ✨

Just wandering downtown, soaking up the sunshine, and letting good food find me 🍴🌿

06/04/2026

Business Spotlight: Wilmington Coffee Passport ☕️

Founded by Will and Ellen Rysanek, the Wilmington Coffee Passport was created from a shared love of coffee and community. While their go-to orders differ, his a bold espresso and hers a signature latte, they both believe the best coffee experiences happen in those cozy “third places” where connection and conversation thrive.

What started as their own way of exploring Wilmington’s coffee scene has grown into a community-driven guide to the city’s cafes, each one chosen for its atmosphere, craft, and welcoming energy. With every stamp, you’re not just earning rewards, you’re supporting local businesses and becoming part of a growing community of coffee lovers.

📍 Pick up your passport at select local shops or online at wilmingtoncoffeepassport.com
☕️ Sip, stamp, and collect rewards along the way:
• 10 stamps = Hat
• 15 stamps = Mug
• 20 stamps = Travel Mug
• 25 stamps = Gift Card
*One reward per Passport*

Check out our YouTube link below to hear more from Will on the Wilmington Coffee Passport!



https://youtu.be/nOpBigiT6HI?si=AUZYr7deLP1qgUNp

06/02/2026

05/29/2026

Something’s always happening in downtown Wilmington. Good vibes, great views, and unforgettable moments.

Come join the fun! 🌆✨