Summer's Over But The Fun Doesn't Have To Stop! Head For The Beach For Music And Bargains

Love that Staples commercial that features the tune “It's The Most Wonderful Time of The Year?” Well, it sure is a great time for parents looking for a little break from the kids and for stores selling school supplies! But did you also know that it's a great time to head for the beach?

The beach, you say? Yep. If you know where to look, you and your family can stretch out the summer with free, fall activities and bargains at beach towns along the North Carolina coast.

Here's a little secret: in Fall, some beach communities are still hoppin' with festivals and fun. Jazz Under The Stars. The 7th Annual Southern Coastal Bluegrass Festival. The Pleasure Island Seafood, Blues and Jazz Festival.

Take “Jazz Under The Stars.” This gets cranking in Carolina Beach, N. C. on Saturday night, Sept. 5th at 9:00 p.m. Park yourself near the beachfront stage at the boardwalk. There's nothing better than a warm ocean breeze, some sand between your toes and fantastic music for FREE.

Or mark your calendar for September 19th & 20th when Carolina Beach's next door neighbor, Kure Beach, is the site for the 7th Annual Southern Coastal Bluegrass Festival. The Thalian Association Community Theatre and the Children's Theatre bring the flavor of the mountains to the beach with this two-day event full of toe-tapping and six-string instruments at Fort Fisher.

Together, Carolina Beach and Kure Beach make up Pleasure Island, N. C., so you can enjoy everything both places have to offer when you head for the 16th Annual Pleasure Island Seafood, Blues & Jazz Festival. The second weekend in October, the Island comes alive with non-stop jazz and blues music by nationally and regionally famous musicians. Then there's the scrumptious seafood, crafts and fine arts, and even a wine tasting. And, the kids will love the Kidz Zone with inflatable amusements, face painters and much more.

If your family's looking for an affordable way to get in a few more days at the beach, check these out.

And keep on top of events and deals through Facebook at www.facebook.com/CarolinaBeachNC or get the latest news via Twitter at http://twitter.com/cb_kb_nc.