Wilmington’s first-ever social district begins this weekend
WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) – The City of Wilmington’s first-ever social district will operate this weekend in the Brooklyn Arts District.
The pilot initiative was given final approval by City Council last week. For three Saturdays in February, people can enjoy beer, wine, and cocktails from participating businesses while exploring the district.
“The Brooklyn Arts District is a hub of entertainment, culture, and community. WDI is proud to have supported this initiative from the start, and we extend our sincere gratitude to Wilmington City Council for embracing our vision and allowing us to enhance the local business community with this exciting, event-driven, daytime social district,” said Christina Haley, President and CEO of Wilmington Downtown, Inc.. “This pilot program is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the district’s flourishing food and beverage scene while further enhancing the walkable experience that makes downtown Wilmington so special.”
As outlined in the city-approved guidelines, beverages must be purchased from participating businesses and consumed within the designated district boundaries, which will be clearly marked with signage. Social District drinks must be finished and disposed of before entering another ABC-permitted restaurant or bar; it’s illegal to bring in outside drinks from one bar to another. Guests will receive branded, recyclable cups for their beverages, ensuring compliance with state laws and local regulations.
Patrons of the social district must be 21 years of age or older and carry a valid photo ID at all times.
“By participating in the social district, patrons are directly supporting small businesses, retail shops, and the hardworking service industry professionals who help make Wilmington’s hospitality scene thrive,” Haley said.
The pilot program will also serve as an opportunity to assess the impact of a social district on economic activity, foot traffic, and public engagement. Following the three pilot events, WDI will work with The Brooklyn Arts District Collective to provide findings to the City of Wilmington for further evaluation.
Each event-based, daytime social district event will be held on Saturdays, from noon to 5 p.m.
The first pilot social district begins this Saturday, Feb. 1 with the famous Coffee Crawl in The Brooklyn Arts District with these participating businesses:
- Brooklyn Cafe
- Flytrap Brewing
- Three10 (until 4 PM)
- Goat & Compass
- Palate Bottle Shop & Garden
- Commodore Public House & Kitchen
- Dalisay Salon
- The Eagle’s Dare
- Edward Teach Brewery
- Pizzeria Don Luca
- The Kitchen Sink
Parking is available at the Skyline Center Parking Deck (155 Brunswick St.), just two blocks from North Fourth Street. Parking rates are as follows:
- Up to 1 hour: $1
- Up to 2 hours: $3
- Up to 3 hours: $6
- 3 to 12 hours: $9
- 12 to 24 hours: $14 (Max)
On-street parking is also available, as well as limited parking at participating businesses.
For more information about the Brooklyn Arts District Social District pilot, including participating businesses and guidelines please visit this site or contact WDI at office@wilmingtondowntown.com.
