About The Rusty Nail

Known for over a quarter century as one of the premier Blues venues in Wilmington - The Rusty Nail is an authentic juke joint that has been a welcoming gathering place since 1957. The low-slung ceiling - vintage linoleum and rotating vinyl-clad barstools conjure up another world where blues reigns supreme.

Cape Fear Blues Jam

The Cape Fear Blues Society has hosted the weekly Cape Fear Blues Jam at The Rusty Nail for decades - maintaining professional-grade equipment that the society owns and continuously updates. The jam takes place every Tuesday at 8pm and the first Saturday of each month at 8pm. Tens of thousands of people have participated in this musical institution over the years. Any musician who walks through the door is invited to perform - making it an accessible and welcoming environment for blues enthusiasts of all skill levels.

Venue Atmosphere and Events

The intimate venue features small cocktail tables inside and a seasonal outdoor patio behind the club. The friendly dive bar atmosphere is enhanced by walls covered in blues memorabilia and a couple of billiard tables. Beyond the weekly jams - The Rusty Nail hosts the annual Cape Fear Blues Festival - one of the longest-running blues events in the Carolinas. The venue attracts both local regulars like Rose Lucas - Randy McQuay and RootSoul Project - as well as touring jazz and blues musicians. Owner Sandy is known for her warm hospitality that makes everyone feel like family.