Now that summer is officially here, it’s prime time for coastal NC family vacations! For area residents and visiting tourists alike, the Crystal Coast offers lots of exciting summertime activities for families and kids. Here’s a look at some of the notable events going on around our region.

NC Aquarium Summer Camp
Summer camp programs at the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher provide fun and safe learning opportunities with knowledgeable and competent leadership. Kids enjoy outdoor excursions, animal interactions and behind-the-scenes aquarium explorations. Camps run simultaneously for ages 5-6, 7-9, and 10-12. Learn more at the NC Aquariums website.

NC Maritime Museum Summer Science School
In partnership with the North Carolina National Estuarine Research Reserve, the North Carolina Maritime Museum sponsors a diverse range of fun educational programs for students from preschool to middle school. Registration is now open. Details on courses and schedules are available at the NC Maritime Museum website.

Friday Free Flicks at Emerald Isle
Emerald Isle Parks and Recreation presents its Friday Free Flick series on the second Friday of each month. Admission is free. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Unless otherwise stated, movies are appropriate for all ages. For more information call 252.354.6350 or visit www.emeraldisle-nc.org.

Morehead City Marlins Baseball
Morehead City’s collegiate summer baseball team has its new season underway, playing home games at O’Neal Field at Big Rock Stadium. General admission tickets are $6 for adults and $4 for children under 12. For schedule information and ticket purchases, visit the Morehead City Marlins website.

Fort Macon Civil War Reenactment
On the weekend of July 9-10 , this event at Fort Macon State Park on Bogue Banks features Civil War–period activities performed between 10 AM and 4 PM by members of the 1st N.C. Volunteers. Talks on flags, uniforms and Civil War dress are held, as well as musket firings and drills. Admission is free.

Fort Macon Concert Series
Also being featured at Fort Macon is The Concert in the Park Series presenting pop classics, orchestral groups, Cajun, bluegrass and Civil-war era music. Sit up on the ramparts or down in the main fort area, watch the sunset and listen to great music. Each concert begins at 7 PM and ends around 8 PM. Admission is free. Call the Park at 252-354-5259 for details about the concerts.