Free Concert Friday comes to CFCC’s Wilson Center with winter edition
WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Free Concert Friday is coming indoors this winter.
The Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College is teaming up with The Eagle’s Dare to bring a special winter edition of Free Concert Friday to downtown Wilmington on Friday, Jan. 16, 2026. The show is free, open to the public, and requires no tickets or reservations.
Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with music starting at 7 p.m. The concert will take place on the Wilson Center’s main stage.
Free Concert Fridays have long been a staple of Wilmington’s music scene, from the original outdoor series to more recent summer shows hosted at The Eagle’s Dare. Organizers say this one-night winter event is a way to keep that tradition going during the slower season.
“We’re so excited to host the longstanding free concert tradition that was established and beloved by so many folks in our region throughout the years,” said Zach Pluer, executive director of the Wilson Center. “We can’t wait to open our doors and join the community in a fun night of supporting amazing local bands and vendors.”
The lineup features three Wilmington-based bands: Kicking Bird, Churchyard Ghost, and Tercel. Local independent label Fort Lowell Records will also be on hand, spinning vinyl in the lobby and giving away raffle prizes between sets. Prizes include tickets and opera box experiences for upcoming Wilson Center shows, and attendees may also hear an announcement about The Eagle’s Dare’s 2026 summer Free Concert Friday lineup.
Food and drinks will be available throughout the night. Smash-N-Dash and Seoul Sushi food trucks will be on site, and mobile bars inside the venue and lobby will offer drink specials. After the show, concertgoers can continue the night across the street at The Eagle’s Dare.
The event is general admission and open to all ages.
More information about Free Concert Friday or upcoming Wilson Center events can be found at WilsonCenterTickets.com or by calling the box office at (910) 362-7999.
