Battleship North Carolina Unveils “Light the Legacy” Illumination

Discover the new ‘Light the Legacy’ illumination at Battleship North Carolina, enhancing Wilmington’s evening skyline and honoring veterans this Veteran’s Day weekend.

The USS North Carolina Battleship Commission proudly announces the debut of “Light the Legacy,” a state-of-the-art illumination system for the iconic battleship. This exciting unveiling is set for Friday, November 8, marking the start of the 2024 Veteran’s Day weekend.

Spectators along The Riverwalk in downtown Wilmington will be the first to experience this historic event. The new lighting enhances the evening views of the Port City, ensuring the Battleship remains a striking presence along the Cape Fear River.

The “Light the Legacy” event will commence at 5:30 p.m., showcasing the Battleship’s superstructure with a captivating display of uplighting. The light cycle will repeat throughout the evening, offering multiple opportunities to enjoy the full sequence. For the best views, visitors are encouraged to find a spot along The Riverwalk where the Battleship is visible. Additionally, custom travel binoculars will be available as giveaways, courtesy of the Battleship and local partners. Follow the Battleship’s social media channels for details on how to obtain these unique keepsakes.

The illumination system, engineered by IlluminFX, features a series of lights that subtly highlight the superstructure, creating a visually engaging experience for both locals and tourists.

Photography by Eric Alter

“Light the Legacy is the latest innovation to support the Battleship’s mission to honor North Carolina’s veterans while enhancing the ship’s role as a beacon of hope in America’s first World War II Heritage City,” stated Dr. Jay Martin, Executive Director of the Battleship North Carolina Memorial.

This long-anticipated project involved 16 months of design and installation, funded by the Friends of the Battleship North Carolina and the Kirkpatrick Foundation.

About Battleship North Carolina:
The USS North Carolina is a decommissioned World War II battleship, now serving as a memorial and state historic site in Wilmington on the Cape Fear River. It stands as a tribute to the bravery of U.S. sailors and soldiers from North Carolina during World War II. Discover more at Battleship North Carolina.

About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources:
The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) is dedicated to managing, promoting, and enhancing North Carolina’s diverse arts, culture, history, and natural areas. The department’s programs aim to enrich education, stimulate economic growth, improve public health, and strengthen community resilience. For more information, visit DNCR.

Photo by: Eric Alter Photography