It’s Pecan Weekend! Your Guide to What’s Happening in Downtown Whiteville
From oysters and live music to a patriotic parade and one of Columbus County’s favorite festivals, downtown Whiteville is the place to be November 5–7!
Downtown Whiteville is gearing up for one of its busiest weekends of the fall, and there’s plenty to celebrate!
The 2026 North Carolina Pecan Music Festival returns Saturday, November 7, bringing food, entertainment, shopping, and community spirit to the heart of Columbus County. But the festivities don’t begin or end with the festival itself.
With events beginning Thursday evening and continuing through Saturday, Pecan Weekend offers several opportunities to enjoy downtown Whiteville, reconnect with neighbors, and support the local businesses that make the community special.
Whether you’re coming for the music, honoring our veterans, enjoying a night out, or spending the day with family and friends, here’s your guide to what’s happening in downtown Whiteville this week.
Thursday, November 5: Shuck N’ Shag Oyster Roast
Time: 5:00 PM
Location: Vineland Station Depot, Downtown Whiteville
Pecan Weekend gets an early start Thursday with the Shuck N’ Shag Oyster Roast, hosted by the Columbus County Chamber of Commerce & Tourism.
The event brings the community together for an evening of food, fellowship, and fun at the historic Vineland Station Depot.
It’s a chance to enjoy a night out in downtown Whiteville while kicking off a weekend filled with celebrations.
Those interested in attending should check the event listing for admission and registration information.
View Shuck N’ Shag Oyster Roast Event Details »
Friday, November 6: Pecan Prelude — The Official Festival Kickoff
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Vineland Station Depot, 701 S. Madison Street
The excitement continues Friday evening with Pecan Prelude, the official kickoff celebration for the 2026 North Carolina Pecan Music Festival.
Held at the historic Vineland Station Depot, the event sets the stage for Saturday’s festivities with an evening of food, music, and community fellowship.
It’s an opportunity to celebrate the festival’s return, spend time with friends and neighbors, and enjoy the atmosphere of downtown Whiteville before the streets fill with festivalgoers on Saturday.
Check the event listing for ticket prices, availability, and additional details.
View Pecan Prelude Event Details »
Saturday, November 7: Veterans Celebration Parade
Time: 10:00 AM
Location: Downtown Whiteville
Parade Route: West Smith Street to Virgil Street
Saturday’s festivities begin with a patriotic celebration as the 2026 Veterans Celebration Parade makes its way through downtown Whiteville.
Columbus County, the City of Whiteville, and the North Carolina Pecan Music Festival are joining together to honor the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
This year’s parade also recognizes America’s 250th anniversary, adding another reason for the community to come together in celebration.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to line the streets, wave their flags, and show their appreciation for veterans and their families.
With the parade taking place alongside Pecan Festival activities, Saturday morning promises to bring plenty of energy to downtown Whiteville.
View Veterans Celebration Parade Event Details »
Saturday, November 7: North Carolina Pecan Music Festival
Vendor Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: South Madison Street, Downtown Whiteville
The main attraction of Pecan Weekend returns Saturday as the North Carolina Pecan Music Festival takes over downtown Whiteville.
One of Columbus County’s signature community celebrations, the festival brings together live entertainment, food vendors, arts and crafts, local organizations, and visitors from across the region.
Rooted in the area’s agricultural heritage, the festival celebrates Whiteville’s connection to the pecan industry while creating an opportunity for residents and visitors to enjoy the heart of the community.
Festivalgoers can browse vendor booths, sample festival favorites, enjoy musical performances, and discover unique products from local and regional businesses.
Whether you’ve attended for years or you’re planning your first visit, the NC Pecan Music Festival offers a full day of activities for the entire family.
With the Veterans Celebration Parade beginning at 10:00 AM and festival vendors operating throughout the day, visitors have plenty of reasons to arrive early and stay awhile.
View NC Pecan Music Festival Details »
While You’re Downtown, Make a Day of It!
Pecan Weekend is about more than the events themselves. It’s also an opportunity to rediscover downtown Whiteville and support the locally owned businesses that serve the community throughout the year.
Before the parade, grab breakfast at a local restaurant. Between festival activities, stop for lunch, browse downtown shops, or discover a business you’ve never visited before.
From restaurants and boutiques to specialty shops and local attractions, there’s plenty to explore beyond the festival grounds.
And if you’re visiting from outside Columbus County, consider spending a little extra time discovering what Whiteville and the surrounding communities have to offer.
Find Local Restaurants in the ColCo Dining Directory »
One Weekend. Plenty of Reasons to Celebrate.
From Thursday’s Shuck N’ Shag Oyster Roast and Friday’s Pecan Prelude to Saturday’s Veterans Celebration Parade and North Carolina Pecan Music Festival, downtown Whiteville has a full weekend ahead.
It’s a weekend to celebrate our community, honor our veterans, enjoy local entertainment, and support the businesses and organizations that help make Columbus County a special place to call home.
So invite your friends, bring the family, and make plans to spend some time in downtown Whiteville this Pecan Weekend!
Looking for More Events in Columbus County?
Pecan Weekend is just one of the many celebrations happening across Columbus County this season.
Discover festivals, community gatherings, concerts, family activities, and more on the ColCo Events Calendar.
Explore the Full Columbus County Events Calendar »
Event dates, times, admission requirements, and schedules are subject to change. Check individual event listings or contact organizers for the latest information.
