Memorial Day Weekend on Bald Head Island

Memorial Day Weekend is the unofficial start to summer on Bald Head Island, and this year’s lineup of events offers the perfect blend of community traditions, family fun, coastal cuisine, and meaningful moments of reflection. Whether you’re visiting for the long weekend or spending the season on the island, there are countless ways to celebrate while enjoying everything that makes Bald Head Island so special.

Thursday, May 21 & Friday, May 22

The holiday festivities begin with a meaningful opportunity to give back to the island through a community-wide dune planting effort hosted by the Bald Head Island Conservancy and the Shoals Club. Volunteers are invited to help plant sea oats on the newly formed dunes in front of the Shoals Club, supporting the long-term sustainability and resilience of Bald Head Island’s shoreline. The planting takes place in two-hour shifts beginning each morning at 8:00 AM, with water, snacks, and refreshments provided for volunteers. It’s a wonderful way for residents and visitors alike to connect with the island community while helping preserve the island’s natural beauty for generations to come.

On Friday evening, the Shoals Club’s Guest Bartender Series returns with Beth and Kevin Fitzgerald stepping behind the bar to mix favorite cocktails for guests. All tips collected during the event will benefit the Bald Head Island Conservancy, making for a fun and festive evening supporting a meaningful local cause.

Saturday, May 23

Saturday is packed with island events and activities for all ages. Beginning at 10:00 AM, the annual Smith Island Art League Exhibition & Sale opens at the Bald Head Association Center and continues through 5:00 PM. Guests can browse and purchase original works from talented regional artists showcasing coastal-inspired paintings, photography, pottery, and more. The exhibition will also return on Sunday from 10:00 AM–5:00 PM.

Also beginning at 10:00 AM, the Bald Head Island Club hosts its annual Summer Kickoff Party, an all-day celebration welcoming the start of the summer season, featuring family-friendly fun and island festivities that continue through 5:00 PM. At the same time, Croquet & Canapés invites guests to enjoy a relaxed afternoon on the Club’s croquet greensward from 10:00 AM–2:00 PM while enjoying light bites and classic island charm.

At 10:30 AM, Island Passage hosts its “Sweets & Treats” Sip-n-Shop event featuring Matilda Faye’s Bakery. Guests can enjoy baked treats while shopping island favorites, and those who make a bakery purchase will receive a special discount for Island Passage purchases. The event continues through 3:00 PM.

Food lovers won’t want to miss the Maritime Market’s popular Pig Pickin’ at the Forest Pavilion, beginning around 11:00–11:30 AM. Chef Taylor will be serving slow-roasted pulled pork and coffee-rubbed beef brisket alongside homemade sides including broccoli salad, street corn salad, butter & dill potatoes, cole slaw, strawberry watermelon salad, and cornbread. Guests can purchase plates and dine under the pavilion, take meals to the beach, or bring dinner home for the family. Plates are available while supplies last.

Sunday, May 24

Sunday morning begins with one of Bald Head Island’s favorite holiday traditions — the annual Turtle Trot 5K hosted by the Bald Head Island Conservancy. The race takes place from 8:30–11:30 AM and begins at the lighthouse circle near the Conservancy campus. Participants can enjoy a festive atmosphere complete with themed t-shirts, sea turtle medals for age-group winners, and scenic island views along the course.

Later in the afternoon, Bald Head Bottle hosts its fourth annual Memorial Day Eve Party and Bottle Bingo beginning at 4:30 PM, with festivities officially kicking off at 5:00 PM. Guests can enjoy chilled Champagne, caviar, specialty cocktails, and a lively evening of bingo with prizes ranging from wine and island treats to fun surprises for kids. No reservations are required, though arriving early is encouraged for seating.

Monday, May 25

Memorial Day itself begins with a heartfelt community ceremony at Village Chapel at 11:00 AM, hosted in partnership with the Old Baldy Foundation. The gathering offers residents and visitors an opportunity to pause, reflect, and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.

The weekend concludes with a guided Middle Island Exploration hosted by the Bald Head Island Conservancy from 2:00–4:00 PM. Guests will enjoy an immersive afternoon exploring the island’s natural habitats, including the Ibis Sanctuary and scenic Cape Creek views. Participants should plan to use personal golf carts for transportation during the tour.

From conservation initiatives and family races to island traditions, shopping, and coastal cuisine, Memorial Day Weekend on Bald Head Island offers something for everyone. It’s the perfect way to welcome summer while enjoying the relaxed pace, natural beauty, and strong sense of community that make Bald Head Island such a treasured coastal destination.

Visit each organizer’s website for details and registration.

Published by Teri Kelly
Tuesday, May 19, 2026