June 2, 2026 - September 1, 2026
Butterfly Releases
Each Tuesday, June-September at 10am, an educator will be in our native Butterfly House discussing the butterfly life cycle and the different types of butterflies in the house that week, and then will release butterflies into the house. Pre-registration is required for this program and tickets can sell out.
June 2, 2026 - September 15, 2026
Turtle Talk & Feeding
On select Tuesdays, June through September, our educators will host a turtle talk and feeding in the classroom.
June 5, 2026 - September 4, 2026
Summer Concert Series
Bring your chairs and a picnic and join in on our summer tradition by the Airlie Oak. These family-friendly concerts allow guests to enjoy live music while taking in the beauty of Airlie Gardens. Tickets are limited and concerts will sell out.
August 1, 2026 - December 31, 2026
Guided History Tours
Dive into the rich history, horticulture, and ecology of Airlie Gardens on a walking tour of the grounds on the first and third Saturdays of each month.
August 26, 2026
August Bird Walks
Enjoy birding at the gardens starting at 8 am.
August 27, 2026
Accessible Birding
Birding is fun for everyone! Join Airlie's educators for a guided tram ride around the gardens to some of our bird hotspots. Ideal for birders of any experience level who may not have the mobility to walk for extended periods of time, who can board and exit our tram.
September 2, 2026
HOPS & TALKS: HOP into the Gardens
Airlie Gardens is excited to welcome guests back for one of our most popular education series: HOPS & TALKS. Join us for a special adult series where we pair one local brewery with a different guided tour.
September 6, 2026
New Hanover County Resident Free Day
Free admission for New Hanover County Residents the first Sunday of each month*! One New Hanover County ID is valid for 2 adults and accompany children under 18. Additional adults must purchase general admission tickets. Tickets must be reserved in advance and can sell out. Please bring proof of residency upon arrival.
September 8, 2026
UnFROGettable Exploration
Join an Environmental Educator as we walk through the garden to find our UnFROGettable frogs Art exhibits. Learn all about our native frogs! Program is intended for a younger audience.
September 9, 2026 - September 23, 2026
September Bird Walks
Enjoy birding at the gardens starting at 8 am.
September 10, 2026
Airlie Member Evenings
Enjoy an after-hours evening in the Gardens exclusively for Airlie members, 5:30-7:30pm. All member tickets must be reserved in advance. Last entry at 7pm, all guests must exit by 7:30pm.
September 22, 2026
Paint and Sip in the Gardens
Join us for a relaxing evening of painting in the garden while sipping your favorite wine. We will provide all the art supplies, and you bring the drinks. Participants will also learn about the plants and history of the gardens. Program will take place in the Spring Garden.
October 16, 2026
Oyster Roast
A spectacular evening supporting Airlie's Environmental Education Program! Featuring an oyster feast and live entertainment along the banks of Bradley Creek.
November 27, 2026 - December 21, 2026
Enchanted Airlie
A tradition since 2005, guests from around the world have visited Airlie Gardens to take in the sparkling sights and festive sounds of the holiday season.
March 1, 2027 - April 15, 2027
Spring Bloom
When warmer temperatures approach, Airlie Gardens’ springtime blooms are a sight to see! Experience over 60,000 tulips and 75,000 azaleas within the gardens.
April 7, 2027 - April 11, 2027
NC Azalea Festival & Garden Tour
Wilmington, N.C., hosts the annual Azalea Festival each April. As the largest festival of its kind in the state, the Azalea Festival showcases the charm of our community.