Wilmington, NC Sports FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What sports events are best suited for the area?

Wilmington and Beaches is best suited for youth and amateur sports events like soccer, baseball, softball, tennis, pickleball, basketball, volleyball, golf, and football as well as the accessible sports, cycling, triathlons, disc golf, ice hockey, lacrosse, paintball, racquetball, bowling, rugby, wrestling and more. Watersports reign supreme here with access to both the ocean and the river so standup paddling and surfing competitions are popular events.

What is your largest indoor venue and what types of sporting events are held here?

The Wilmington Convention Center is the largest convention center on the North Carolina coast, where eSports, cheerleading, gymnastics, wrestling and volleyball are some of the popular sports events held here.

How do I get permits to utilize space on the beach for a sporting event?

The Wilmington and Beaches Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) sports sales manager will connect you to the appropriate contacts in Carolina Beach, Kure Beach and Wrightsville Beach.

My event requires a local organizing committee. How do I locate the appropriate contact?

The CVB has a contact list of local organizing committees and their members for our area.

What professional and signature sporting events have been held in Wilmington and the beaches?

IRONMAN 70.3 North Carolina
Wells Fargo Championship, a PGA TOUR event
EVP Beach Volleyball Pro/Am Tour
Sweetwater Pro/Am Surf Fest
Carolina Cup Stand up Paddleboard Race
Seaside Soccer Classic
Novant Health Wilmington NC Marathon
NC State Closed NTRP Hard Court Tennis Championships
Cape Fear Rugby 7’s Tournament

When are the best rates available for groups?

Book off-season dates November through March for the best savings.

What kind of assistance does the CVB provide to sports events planners?

The CVB staff can assist with pre-event planning, bid process, site inspections, program assistance, destination literature, and registration assistance.

For More Information

Joel Smith, MPRTSM Sales Manager

jsmith@wilmingtonandbeaches.com

Joel Smith has held various management roles within the recreation and leisure industry, and completed his Master’s degree in Parks, Recreation, Sports and Tourism Management, at North Carolina State University. Joel joined the Wilmington and Beaches CVB in 2017. He is currently serving as the Second Vice President for the North Carolina Society of Government Meeting Professionals, was named NC SGMP Supplier of the Year for 2020-2021 and a National SGMP Top Young Professional for 2022. He and his wife Hilary have three children, and thoroughly enjoy the local eateries and attractions in Wilmington. Joel spends his free time fishing, sunset chasing with his family and supporting his community.