Greenfield Lake Amphitheater

Picture string lights, cypress trees and a lake behind the stage, with only about 1,200 to 1,400 people in the crowd. Built in 1962, this open-air amphitheater is one of the best places in North Carolina to see a big-name act up close. If someone you love is touring during your stay, it’s worth checking the calendar.

• Wilmington
• Live music
• Outdoor
• April–November

Why families go

Concertgoers call it the best live-music venue in the state: intimate, great-sounding, and every seat can see. The lakeside sunset setting is the real headliner. All shows are all ages. It’s outdoors by a wild lake, so bring bug spray, expect mosquitoes on warm nights, and keep small children close to the shore. Parking is limited, so many people take a rideshare.

Don’t miss

• A lakeside sunset showThe stage faces a cypress-lined lake under strings of lights.
• The Gator GardenA pre-show green space that opens an hour before doors.
• An all-ages crowdEvery show is all ages; kids 5 and under sit free on a parent’s lap.

Who’s played here

National touring acts come through all season. Past performers include:

• James Taylor
• Willie Nelson
• ZZ Top
• Brandi Carlile
• Wilco
• Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit
• Gov’t Mule
• Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats
• The Head and the Heart
• Indigo Girls
• Old Crow Medicine Show
• Michael Franti & Spearhead
• Primus
• Robert Earl Keen
• Umphrey’s McGee
• Rival Sons

The season runs roughly April to mid-November, and tickets are sold through Ticketmaster. See who’s playing during your stay.

Photo: Greenfield Lake Amphitheater

Before you go

• Clear-bag policy (small clear tote or clutch; diaper bags exempt). No lawn chairs or coolers; blankets and a sealed gallon of water are fine.
• Seats are first come, first served, so arrive early to sit close.
• Cashless; no re-entry; rain or shine. Free street parking on Lakeshore Drive fills fast; don’t park in the neighboring lot, which tows.

Plan your visit

• Where: 1941 Amphitheater Dr., Wilmington, NC 28401
• From Topsail: About 45–50 minutes from central Surf City.
• Hours: Show nights only, roughly April to mid-November; gates usually open an hour before showtime.
• Admission: Ticketed per show.
• Tickets: Shows and tickets
• Official site: greenfieldlakeamphitheater.com
• More nearby: more family fun in Wilmington

A short drive from the island. Browse our Topsail Island vacation rentals, all cared for by our local team.

Based on the venue’s official information, its published event history and news coverage, and recurring themes in public reviews; checked October 2026. Lineups change constantly, so check the calendar for current shows.