7th Annual Surf City Firefighters Auxiliary Boaters Poker Run

The 7th Annual Surf City Firefighters Auxiliary Boaters Poker Run returns to the Intracoastal Waterway around Surf City and Topsail Island, North Carolina, on Saturday, September 26, 2026. The popular boating fundraiser combines a day on the water with multiple poker-run stops, prizes and an evening winner announcement, all while raising money to support local firefighters.

Registration materials may be picked up Friday, September 25, from 6 to 8 p.m., with an additional pickup period Saturday morning from 8 to 10:30 a.m. Boaters will then head onto the Intracoastal Waterway, with official poker-run stops open from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m.

Participants will cruise from stop to stop throughout the Surf City and Topsail Island area, collecting cards to build their poker hands while enjoying a day of boating with friends. Unlike a speed-based competition, the event is centered around visiting the designated waterfront stops and assembling the strongest poker hand.

The event will award a grand prize of up to $2,500, along with additional door prizes and giveaways. The winning poker hand is scheduled to be announced at 7 p.m. at Sears Landing, a popular waterfront restaurant in Surf City.

Proceeds from every poker hand purchased benefit the Surf City Firefighters Auxiliary and help support the firefighters who serve and protect the local community. Organizers are also accepting sponsorships and door-prize donations from area businesses and community supporters.

The annual poker run has become a favorite late-season boating event along the North Carolina coast, giving participants an opportunity to explore the Intracoastal Waterway, visit local waterfront destinations and spend the day with fellow boaters while supporting a community organization.

Boaters should check the latest information from the Surf City Firefighters Auxiliary before the event for registration instructions, the official list of poker-run stops and any changes to the schedule. Captains should operate responsibly throughout the day and use extra caution around docks, restaurant traffic and other vessels along the Intracoastal Waterway.

Event: 7th Annual Surf City Firefighters Auxiliary Boaters Poker Run
Date: Saturday, September 26, 2026
Location: Surf City and Topsail Island, North Carolina
Waterway: Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway
Registration Pickup: Friday, September 25, 6–8 p.m.; Saturday, September 26, 8–10:30 a.m.
Poker Run Stops: 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Winner Announcement: 7 p.m. at Sears Landing
Grand Prize: Up to $2,500
Organizer: Surf City Firefighters Auxiliary