Summer may be winding down, but there’s still plenty happening around Holden Beach and the Brunswick Islands. Fall brings comfortable days by the water, local festivals, fresh seafood and some of the area’s most anticipated fishing events.
If you’re looking for another reason to head to the coast, here are a few events to put on your fall calendar.
U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament
October 1–3, 2026 | Southport & Oak Island
Fall and fishing go hand in hand along the Brunswick Islands, and the U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament is one of the biggest events of the season.
Known as the “Granddaddy of King Mackerel Tournaments,” the event attracts hundreds of boats as anglers compete to land a winning king. Live weigh-ins also make it fun for spectators who aren’t competing.
Learn more about the U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament
North Carolina Oyster Festival
October 17–18, 2026 | Ocean Isle Beach
Come hungry! The North Carolina Oyster Festival celebrates a coastal favorite with a full weekend of food, live entertainment, arts and crafts and family fun.
Held in Ocean Isle Beach, the festival makes an easy day trip from Holden Beach and a fun addition to a fall weekend on the coast.
Learn more about the North Carolina Oyster Festival
NC Festival by the Sea
October 24–25, 2026 | Holden Beach
One of Holden Beach’s signature annual events returns in late October. NC Festival by the Sea brings arts and crafts, live entertainment, food vendors, contests and children’s activities to the area for a full weekend of fun.
With plenty happening right in Holden Beach, you can spend part of the day at the festival and still leave time to enjoy the beach.
Learn more about the NC Festival by the Sea
Fall Is a Great Time to Get Back to the Beach
A fall trip to Holden Beach can be as busy or as relaxed as you want it to be. Spend the morning fishing, make a day trip to a nearby festival, enjoy fresh local seafood or simply settle into a beach chair and enjoy a quieter day by the ocean.
Whether you’re coming for an event or just looking for another excuse to visit the coast, fall is a great time to experience Holden Beach and the Brunswick Islands.
Find your Holden Beach vacation rental and start planning your fall getaway.
