Calabash may be best known for its seafood, but the small riverfront town at the southern tip of Brunswick County also has a few holiday traditions that locals look forward to every year. Two of them land in the next few weeks: the Sunset River Gallery Holiday Art Market this weekend and the Calabash Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning. Here’s what to know, plus a few thoughts for anyone considering a move to the Calabash, Carolina Shores and Sunset Beach area.
Sunset River Gallery Holiday Art Market: Nov. 13–15
According to The Brunswick Beacon’s Nov. 5, 2026 report, Sunset River Gallery in Calabash will hold its 12th annual Holiday Art Market from Friday, Nov. 13 through Sunday, Nov. 15.
Here’s what the Beacon says visitors can expect:
- New work from gallery artists, including pottery, oil and acrylic paintings, watercolors, mixed media, art glass, metal and wood works, baskets, fiber art, artisan jewelry, hand-crafted furniture, photography and holiday décor.
- Hundreds of handmade ornaments to choose from on the gallery’s eight-foot tree.
- Complimentary holiday treats, hot mulled cider and refreshments all three days.
- Free daily drawings for gift certificates from $25 to $50.
- A new hand-painted holiday mural by gallery director Samantha Spalti on the front wall, which will stay up through the end of the year.
The Beacon notes the gallery features work by more than 100 regional artists and serves both visitors and a growing community of full-time residents shopping for art for their homes and businesses. If you’ve just moved into a new home in the area, it’s an easy way to find local pieces for your walls and holiday gifts at the same time.
Calabash Turkey Trot: Thanksgiving Morning, Nov. 26
WWAY reported on Nov. 2 that the 12th annual Calabash Turkey Trot takes place Thursday, Nov. 26, along River Road in Calabash. This year is also the 100th race organized by Coastal Race Productions.
Race times
- 10K: 7 a.m.
- 5K: 8:30 a.m.
- 1-mile race: 9:15 a.m.
Participants who complete all three races can earn an additional bonus medal. WWAY reports finishers will receive pirate-themed medals, and the first 2,500 registered participants get a commemorative 100th Race Treasure Pin. Runners and walkers of all ages and experience levels are welcome. Registration is through Coastal Race Productions.
“It’s a Thanksgiving tradition where families return year after year, friends reconnect, and new memories are made,” Coastal Race Productions co-owner JoJo Terragna told WWAY.
Tips if you live near River Road
- Plan your morning. If you’re hosting Thanksgiving and live near the course, expect race-day activity early in the morning and allow extra time for errands.
- Tell your guests. Visiting family arriving Thanksgiving morning may want to time their drive around the race.
- Make it a family plan. The 1-mile race is a great option for kids and casual walkers before the turkey goes in.
For more holiday-week planning, see our Thanksgiving week traffic tips. And just two days later, nearby Holden Beach hosts its first holiday flotilla; our Holden Beach flotilla guide has the details.
Why These Traditions Matter to Buyers
Small-town events are one of the best ways to get a feel for a community before you buy. The Calabash area draws a mix of retirees, second-home owners and year-round families, and much of it is a short drive from Sunset Beach and Ocean Isle Beach. When you’re comparing towns, visiting during the off-season shows you what everyday life is really like.
If you’re exploring the area, these guides are a good place to start:
- Living in Calabash, NC
- Living in Carolina Shores, NC
- Living in Sunset Beach, NC
- Buying near the Calabash–Carolina Shores retail corridor
Calabash Holiday Events FAQ
When is the Sunset River Gallery Holiday Art Market?
Friday, Nov. 13 through Sunday, Nov. 15, 2026, at Sunset River Gallery in Calabash, per The Brunswick Beacon.
When is the Calabash Turkey Trot?
Thanksgiving morning, Thursday, Nov. 26, 2026, along River Road in Calabash. The 10K starts at 7 a.m., the 5K at 8:30 a.m. and the 1-mile race at 9:15 a.m.
Can walkers join the Turkey Trot?
Yes. WWAY reports runners and walkers of all ages and experience levels are invited.
Thinking About a Move to the South Brunswick Coast?
From Calabash to Sunset Beach and Ocean Isle, our team can help you find the town and home that fit your lifestyle. Reach out to Aspyre Collective and let’s start the search.
