Bring your rods and reels and discover how incredible the fishing on the Outer Banks can be when the temps cool and the fall season rolls around by signing up for the Hatteras Island Surf Fishing Challenge. This popular fishing tournament that’s now in its second year takes place all across the islands, and allows anglers to pick a favorite spot, cast a line, and hopefully reel in a few big catches, as well as a few hefty cash prizes, along the way.

Enjoy a rare opportunity to see the best surfers on the East Coast go head to head at this “grand finale” event that is renowned as one of the best surfing competitions on the Eastern Seaboard.

Discover a bygone era of Hatteras Island beauty with this stunning collection of watercolors, photographs, and more, that will be on display throughout the summer season and beyond at the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum.

Bring your sense of adventure and head to the sand for this pirate-style mutiny where the Jeeps rule the scene. The Outer Banks Jeep Mutiny is a four-day event that combines plenty of food, drinks, and island entertainment, as well as lots of opportunities to hit the beach and enjoy a trek on one of the most picturesque destinations in the county for off-road expeditions.

Head to the waves of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore to catch this epic competition that combines powerful waves with incredible athletic ability. The Cape Hatteras Wave Classic is a waves-focused kiteboarding event that features some of the best conditions for incredible action along the Hatteras Island beaches.

Let the kids enjoy a morning of fun and exploring at this special and free program that’s offered by the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuges. The Preschool Young Naturalist Program incited the youngest visitors and locals to discover something new about the local Outer Banks environment through hands-in activities, a light area walk, and a lot of fun and learning.

Surfers, filmmakers, movie buffs, nature fans, and curious visitors alike can all come together for an incredible film festival that celebrates all things aquatic. Presented by Cucalorus and the Dare County Arts Council, this three-day celebration of coastal North Carolina marine culture is sure to impress movie fans of all varieties, with an array of local and regional films that highlight life by the coastal waters.

Head to the cool and relaxed Outer Banks in late September to join in the fun of one of the region’s most distinctive and popular area festivals. Pridefest is a three-day gay pride festival that is full of activities, food, music, and ample beach time, and which is open to all LGBTQ folks and their supporters and friends.

Enjoy an opportunity to learn all about the fascinating and centuries-long history of Ocracoke Island with this special tour that is led by lifelong locals who know all the secrets of this unique southern Outer Banks Island. The Ghost & Historic Walking Tour is a unique tour that is held throughout the summertime and early fall months, and which showcases the mysterious legends and stories that this island is famous for.

Creative and curious kids alike will love attending this session that shines a spotlight on a unique art form that’s centuries old, but which fits in perfectly with the Outer Banks landscape. Fish Printing for Kids is a special class that is hosted by the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education, and which is sure to further a love of art, nature, and all-things-coastal for visiting and local creative kids alike.

Young and old visitors alike will be fascinated with this special educational session that’s held at one of the most scenic destinations along the Outer Banks – the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education in the heart of Corolla. Dragon Hunters will lead explorers on an expedition for the beloved dragonflies that frequent the wild landscape, and will be an unforgettable and fun event that visitors of all ages will adore.

Half the fun of discovering the diverse wildlife of the Outer Banks is capturing your memories for years to come, and this unique class will show visitors the joys of the traditional art of nature journaling. Utilized by explorers and adventurers of centuries ago, nature journaling is a fun and educational way to keep track of your wild explorations – both on the Outer Banks, and at home long after a vacation is over.

Head to mainland Currituck for one of the most delicious festivals off the beach. The Crabdaddy Seafood Festival at Sanctuary Vineyards partners an abundance of locally caught crabs with wine, beer, vendors, hayrides, live music, and a wealth of other activities to make this a delicious event for seafood lovers of all ages.

At the annual Artrageous Art Extravaganza, everyone can enjoy a little hands-on creativity with lots of interactive displays, live demos, and fun artistic activities for the young and the young at heart. The family-friendly environment features regionally acclaimed artists showing and selling their works, as well as plenty of food vendors and live music throughout the event. Proceeds from the day-long festival go to benefit the Artrageous Scholarship Fund, cultural arts programs in the Outer Banks community, and art education programs in the Dare County Schools. For a celebration that is sure to appeal to all the art lovers In the family, the Artrageous Art Extravaganza is not to be missed.

Discover a bygone era of Hatteras Island beauty with this stunning collection of watercolors, photographs, and more, that will be on display throughout the summer season and beyond at the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum.

Take advantage of an opportunity to learn about a little-known group of heroes during World War II at this special presentation that’s part of the acclaimed Salty Dawg Lecture Series at the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum.

Head to the heart of downtown Manteo for a shopping experience that highlights the talented artists and craftsmen of the region. The Tuesday Craft Fair at the Magnolia Market Place is a summertime event that is held every week, and which features an array of unique crafts and artworks that are a celebration of the coastal Outer Banks environment.

Enjoy an opportunity to learn all about the fascinating and centuries-long history of Ocracoke Island with this special tour that is led by lifelong locals who know all the secrets of this unique southern Outer Banks Island. The Ghost & Historic Walking Tour is a unique tour that is held throughout the summertime and early fall months, and which showcases the mysterious legends and stories that this island is famous for.

Fishing has a long and ingrained heritage on the Outer Banks, and the region’s newest and youngest visitors can help pass down this tradition for future generations through this special class that will show young visitors just how fun fishing can be. Designed for ages 4-7, “Fish Sticks” is a free, hands-on event that will create plenty of memories for kids and parents alike, and which is sure to help foster a love of fishing for years to come.

The Currituck Sound is a prime destination for fishing in the Outer Banks, and new anglers can learn all about the different catches that frequent these waters via this hands-on event that is hosted by the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education. Fishing the Sound is open to all visitors ages 7 and up, and is an engaging fishing session that will inspire inexperienced and seasoned visitors alike to discover just how fun fishing on the Outer Banks can be.

Creative and curious kids alike will love attending this session that shines a spotlight on a unique art form that’s centuries old, but which fits in perfectly with the Outer Banks landscape. Fish Printing for Kids is a special class that is hosted by the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education, and which is sure to further a love of art, nature, and all-things-coastal for visiting and local creative kids alike.

Young and old visitors alike will be fascinated with this special educational session that’s held at one of the most scenic destinations along the Outer Banks – the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education in the heart of Corolla. Dragon Hunters will lead explorers on an expedition for the beloved dragonflies that frequent the wild landscape, and will be an unforgettable and fun event that visitors of all ages will adore.

Spend a fun morning off the sand and getting creative with this unique weekly event that’s designed for crafty kids on Hatteras Island. Held at the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum, the “Maritime Crafts for Kids” event features a special maritime-themed craft every week for a free session of getting creative at one of the most unique attractions on the Outer Banks.

Enjoy a little extra insight into one of the most tumultuous time periods in both local and national history with this special presentation on the Civil War on Hatteras Island that’s held at the inspiring Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum.

Visitors and locals can get their game on and test their luck at this popular weekly Bingo Night which is hosted by the Cape Hatteras Anglers Club. Featuring a regular bevy of cash prizes, with proceeds benefitting great local causes, this bingo night serves as a lightly competitive and engaging night out for anyone looking for a little fun on Hatteras Island.

Visitors and locals who have always wanted to learn a new sport and a new skill will enjoy this class which shines a spotlight on the fundamentals of archery. Open for kids ages 8-13, this short but thorough session on archery will teach all the basics of this healthy and fun exercise, and is sure to be a highlight of any vacation for young explorers who adore a little adventure.

Let your family’s youngest members have a blast learning all about the diverse wildlife that calls the Outer Banks home at this fun session that’s designed for visitors ages 2-7. Combining a world of stories, crafts, and even area explorations, “Fish Scales & Crabby Tales” is a great introduction to the local environment that will foster a lifelong love of the unique ecosystems of the Outer Banks.

Take a break from the beach and enjoy a ton of laughs and plenty of grins with this special performance by Rob Brackenridge with Joy Julian at the Comedy Club of the Outer Banks. This one-night-only show gives visitors and locals alike an opportunity to shake off the cares of the day, and enjoy an evening of amazing entertainment at one of the most fun nightlife destinations along the central OBX.

Crabbing is a big part of life on the North Carolina coastline, and new explorers of all ages can learn all about the fundamentals, techniques, and tricks that are involved in this generations-old practice that’s alive and well on the Outer Banks. This Crabbing class is open to visitors of all ages, and is a great way to discover a unique aspect of the OBX fishing scene while enjoying a hands-on activity that will be a memorable part of any coastal vacation.

Visitors who are new to the Outer Banks fishing scene can learn all the fundamentals - (with an emphasis on “fun”) - at this engaging session that is hosted by the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education. Family Fishing is a free and unique event that will show anglers of all ages the basics of fishing in the area waters, and which will hopefully foster a lifelong love of fishing for generations to come.

Let the kids enjoy a morning of fun and exploring at this special and free program that’s offered by the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuges. The Preschool Young Naturalist Program incited the youngest visitors and locals to discover something new about the local Outer Banks environment through hands-in activities, a light area walk, and a lot of fun and learning.

Fall is an ideal time to start plotting a sunny spring garden and a stunning overall landscape, and gardening enthusiasts can enjoy deep discounts on everything they need to get to get their hands dirty at this Big Fall Plant Sale that is held at one of the best places for local blooms, the Elizabethan Gardens.

Join this special run through a scenic section of the Outer Banks while promoting the awareness of breast cancer. Serving as an official event in the Outer Banks Hospital’s “Get Pinked!” campaign. This fall 5k / 10k run will appeal to runners, joggers, and anyone who wants to boost awareness of a very worthy cause.

Head to the Avon Pier to show the area anglers how it’s really done with this special fishing tournament that puts girls and women in the spotlight. The “Fish Like A Girl” event is an all-women’s charity fishing tournament that lets the ladies show off their stuff at one of the best destinations on Hatteras Island for fishing in the Atlantic Ocean.

The annual Jim Mulford Memorial Red Drum Tournament is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 30 from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Try your luck at catching the longest RED DRUM! Additional fall species will also be judged. Lines in the water 8 a.m. to noon. One line per angler. Awards and prizes immediately following final judging.

Fall is an ideal time to start plotting a sunny spring garden and a stunning overall landscape, and gardening enthusiasts can enjoy deep discounts on everything they need to get to get their hands dirty at this Big Fall Plant Sale that is held at one of the best places for local blooms, the Elizabethan Gardens.

Enjoy an evening of music, conversation, and a few delicate refreshments at this opening reception for an acclaimed and talented artist who is landing on the Outer Banks. The Opening Reception of Adele Castillo's Portrait Exhibit is hosted by the Dare County Arts Council, and is an opportunity for art lovers to get a first peek at a new exhibit that will run all October long.

Head to the cool porch of the Bluegrass Island Trading Co for this special performance that will have Patriotic music fans everywhere grinning and tapping their toes along to the music. The United States Navy Band will take to the stage – or rather, the shaded porch – to provide the evening’s entertainment at this wholly unique and enjoyable concert in the heart of Downtown Manteo.

An introduction to a collection of some of the best and most acclaimed artists on the Outer Banks is waiting at this eclectic art show that puts a range of talents in the spotlight. Held at Glenn Eure's Ghost Fleet Gallery, this October art show serves as a fine opportunity to discover some new talents, while taking in the beauty and the inherently coastal influences of the Outer Banks art scene.

Music lovers everywhere have started to flock to the Outer Banks in the fall for this “New” tradition that adds a roster of acclaimed bands with one of the prettiest venues along the North Carolina coastline. The Outer Banks Bluegrass Festival has quickly become one of the most highly anticipated events of the year, and this year’s event is no exception, with a number of regionally and nationally famous bands already signed up to perform in the multi-day event.

Enjoy a little extra insight into one of the most tumultuous time periods in both local and national history with this special presentation on the Civil War on Hatteras Island that’s held at the inspiring Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum.

Visitors and locals can get their game on and test their luck at this popular weekly Bingo Night which is hosted by the Cape Hatteras Anglers Club. Featuring a regular bevy of cash prizes, with proceeds benefitting great local causes, this bingo night serves as a lightly competitive and engaging night out for anyone looking for a little fun on Hatteras Island.

Discover a veritable treasure trove of homes that are scattered along 60 miles of pristine barrier island coastline with this special annual event that attracts thousands of visitors from all across the region who want to see what’s new and amazing on the Outer Banks home front. The Outer Banks Parade of Homes is a four-day event that visitors can explore at their leisure to discover new structures, new builders, or just to be inspired for their own coastal residence by the sea.

Discover a remarkable collection of historic residences throughout the Outer Banks with this special tour that highlights some of the town’s most eye-catching and historic beach homes. Orchestrated by the Historic Landmarks Commission, visitors can explore an array of unique homes that can be a century or more old during this fall tour that truly captures the history that’s alive and well around every corner of the Outer Banks.

Manteo’s vibrant downtown scene is on full display during this monthly event that highlights the area’s businesses, restaurants and galleries that makes this central Outer Banks community so unique. The First Friday in Manteo is held every month on the initial Friday of the month, and is a street festival that will make any new visitor fall in love with this charming coastal community.

Unwind after a long and busy day at the beach with a little live music in one of the most inviting atmospheres in Southern Shores with this special performance by favorite local artist Scott Sechman.

Let the kids enjoy a morning of fun and exploring at this special and free program that’s offered by the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuges. The Preschool Young Naturalist Program incited the youngest visitors and locals to discover something new about the local Outer Banks environment through hands-in activities, a light area walk, and a lot of fun and learning.

Discover how beautiful the local beaches of Hatteras Island can be in the fall, while meeting and greeting with tons of other Teardrop owners who love life on the road as much as you do, by attending this special annual rally that’s held over the picturesque Columbus Day Weekend.

The Duck Jazz Festival is quickly becoming one of the most beloved music events in the northern Outer Banks, and this October’s event promises to be better than ever with a great line-up of talented jazz musicians from all across the region and beyond.

Celebrate the fall season at one of the prettiest outdoor attractions in the heart of Roanoke Island with this special weekly event that has become a favorite activity for locals and fall visitors alike. Pumpkin Patch Saturdays are a fantastic opportunity for kids and adults to pick up their own Halloween pumpkins while exploring a myriad of activities and attractions found within the Island Farm.

As the summer winds down and the temperatures start to cool, it’s an ideal time to get out to the garden and to start planning your fall landscapes. During this special workshop that’s held at the Elizabethan Gardens, visitors will learn all about how to make the most out of the shoulder season weather, and to start planning a beautiful backyard, front porch, or other area that will stay pretty throughout the season.

Enjoy a breezy fall outing that starts with a light run or jog and ends with plenty of food, fun, and live music at this annual event that goes to benefit a very worthy local cause, the Hatteras Island Cancer Foundation. The HICF Positively Pink 5K is a great outing that’s open to visitors and locals of all ages, and which shows just how fun the Outer Banks can be in the fall when everyone comes together to help out a favorite community organization.

Fall is an ideal time to start plotting a sunny spring garden and a stunning overall landscape, and gardening enthusiasts can enjoy deep discounts on everything they need to get to get their hands dirty at this Big Fall Plant Sale that is held at one of the best places for local blooms, the Elizabethan Gardens.

Discover how beautiful the local beaches of Hatteras Island can be in the fall, while meeting and greeting with tons of other Teardrop owners who love life on the road as much as you do, by attending this special annual rally that’s held over the picturesque Columbus Day Weekend.

Celebrate the fall season at one of the prettiest outdoor attractions in the heart of Roanoke Island with this special weekly event that has become a favorite activity for locals and fall visitors alike. Pumpkin Patch Saturdays are a fantastic opportunity for kids and adults to pick up their own Halloween pumpkins while exploring a myriad of activities and attractions found within the Island Farm.

Get your holiday season off to a jolly and naturally beautiful start with this workshop that focuses on one of the favorite plants of the season – the Christmas Cactus. Held on the grounds of the Elizabethan Gardens, this special class will highlight all there is to know about the Christmas Cactus, while providing invaluable instruction on how to grow – and maintain – this pretty staple of the season.

Enjoy an evening show that centers on a familiar tale with a new twist with this special performance by local favorite Dorothy Papadakos. During this event, Dorothy Papadakos will kick off her Halloween Horror Tour by offering a special screening of the "The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.” Held in Southern Shores, this unique movie showing combines live music and entertainment to deliciously spooky results.

Visitors and locals who have always wanted to master the sport of windsurfing can hone their skills at this special fall camp that’s designed to turn newcomers into water-riding pros. The ABK Board Sports Windsurfing Fall Camp takes place over the course of a few days, and is a great opportunity to learn windsurfing from the ground up, with instruction provided by some of the best boarders on the scene.

The Outer Banks, and the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge in particular, is known as one of the best bird watching destinations in the world, and the annual Wings Over Water celebrates this distinction like no other local festival. The weeklong event, which is being held each October, features a wide range of educational programs, lectures, and opportunities to meet and greet with fellow birders. During this year's festival, attendees will also have the opportunity to go on guided birding trips, attend art and photography workshops, take a tram or kayak tour of National Wildlife Refuge, visit an ancient maritime forest, and much, much more. A complete schedule can be found online at the organization's website, and attendees should note that some programs do cost a small fee of roughly $20 - $25 dollars.

Unwind after a long and busy day at the beach with a little live music in one of the most inviting atmospheres in Southern Shores with this special performance by favorite local artist Scott Sechman.

The group which hosts the tournament, Capitol City Four Wheelers, is based out of Virginia and is always looking for new members who love and promote safe 4WD accessible driving. For an October surf fishing tournament that revolves around driving along the incredible beaches of Hatteras Island, the Capitol City Surf Fishing Tournament is certainly one to watch.

The Outer Banks Seafood Festival is rapidly becoming one of the highlights of the fall season, with plenty of fresh seafood, storytelling, and activities to keep everyone fully entertained. This all-day event takes place at the waterfront Event Site in Nags Head, and is a family-friendly outing that will make anyone fall in love with this staple of the Outer Banks’ culinary cuisine.

Celebrate the fall season at one of the prettiest outdoor attractions in the heart of Roanoke Island with this special weekly event that has become a favorite activity for locals and fall visitors alike. Pumpkin Patch Saturdays are a fantastic opportunity for kids and adults to pick up their own Halloween pumpkins while exploring a myriad of activities and attractions found within the Island Farm.

Enjoy a day at the Manteo waterfront and see wooden boats displayed in the water and on the grounds of the Roanoke Island Maritime Museum at this special event that pays homage to the region’s deep ties to maritime history and culture.

Open to everyone, and historically one of the most popular and well-loved surf fishing tournaments on the beach, the original Red Drum Tournament may have a new name and a new organizer, but it is still one of the best reasons for anglers in-the-know to make an October visit to the Outer Banks.

Get your Halloween off to a deliciously spooky start with this unique film festival that’s celebrating its 2^nd year on the Outer Banks. The Halloween International Film Festival is a multi-day event that features a wide array of independent movies from all over the region and the world, and which caps off each series of films with a wealth of spooky activities that will get everyone into the seasonal spirit.

Come to Ocracoke Island for a Pirate Halloween! The Ocracoke Pirate Jamboree is an annual, two-day event that is highlighted by a family friendly Pirate Encampment by Blackbeard's Pirate Crew on Ocracoke Island.

Visitors and locals of all talents and abilities are invited to come down to one of the southern Outer Banks most beloved attractions to help out on a project that will benefit everyone in the area community and beyond. Volunteer Days at the Frisco Native American Museum focuses on a special new outdoor project and exhibit at the museum, and is a great way for friends to come together for a worthy cause in the heart of the Outer Banks.

Any local or visitor who has ever wondered what’s true and what’s legend when it comes to the Outer Banks’ First settlement will adore this unique weekend that brings a collection of experts together to help shape the story. The OBX History Weekend features a group of 13 distinguished British and US speakers at a free public symposium, which will connect the dots about the initial Roanoke colony of 1584 and the fate of the infamous 1587 Lost Colony.

Celebrate the fall season at one of the prettiest outdoor attractions in the heart of Roanoke Island with this special weekly event that has become a favorite activity for locals and fall visitors alike. Pumpkin Patch Saturdays are a fantastic opportunity for kids and adults to pick up their own Halloween pumpkins while exploring a myriad of activities and attractions found within the Island Farm.

Join in the fun of the biggest art celebration of the year by attending the always magical and charming Black Opal Masquerade Ball. Held in October and renowned as one of the largest fundraising events for the Dare County Arts Council, this ball is a glittering evening of music, food, and miles of fun.

Costumes, ghouls, beer, and a little run through the OBX – if this fits your idea of a cool Halloween celebration, then you’ll want to join in the fun of the “The Beer Witch Project,” which is a one-mile beer run that’s hosted by the Outer Banks Brewing Station in the heart of the central Outer Banks.

Get into the spooky Halloween spirit with this event that is quickly becoming a favorite holiday celebration in the central Outer Banks and beyond. The 4th Annual Outer Banks Halloween Parade of Costumes is a celebration of all things scary and fun, with a myriad of activities and corresponding events that will make anyone want to join in the seasonal fall fun.

Enjoy an evening of history, mystery, and a few spooky surprises along the way at this Halloween-themed event that takes place at the Roanoke Island Maritime Museum, and which will be a wonderfully scary and engaging event for “kids” of all ages.

Discover just how spirited that Hatteras Island and the southern Outer Banks can be during the fall holidays with this special event that will delight local and vacationing kids and their families alike. Trunk or Treat is becoming a favorite annual Halloween celebration, and is a great opportunity for kids to load up on candy in a safe, central, and wonderfully convenient location.

Beach-loving anglers who love an excuse to check out the incredible fishing conditions of Hatteras Island in the fall will want to make a date to attend this iconic fishing tournament that is now in its 60^th year. Sponsored by the Cape Hatteras Anglers Club, the annual Invitation Surf Fishing Tournament & Bob Bernard Open Individual Tournament is one of the most highly anticipated fishing tournaments along the Outer Banks coastline, and is a fantastic introduction to how incredible fishing can be when the temperatures drop on Hatteras Island.

Manteo’s vibrant downtown scene is on full display during this monthly event that highlights the area’s businesses, restaurants and galleries that makes this central Outer Banks community so unique. The First Friday in Manteo is held every month on the initial Friday of the month, and is a street festival that will make any new visitor fall in love with this charming coastal community.

The historic Island Farm in Manteo takes on a spooky new appearance during this Halloween season event that will send chills down anyone’s spine. Highlighting this local attraction from an entirely new after-hours perspective, these spooky tours are sure to be a thrilling addition to any off-season Outer Banks vacation.

Warm up on a cool November evening by discovering a talented regional artist who puts the landscape of the Outer Banks in a beautiful new light. The Opening Reception of Marcia Cline's Painting Exhibit is an event that is sponsored and hosted by the Dare County Arts Council, and is a prime opportunity to discover a new talent while mingling with other art fans, and enjoying an evening of conversation and light refreshments.

Early November is an exceptional time to clear out a front yard or backyard landscape, and to start gearing up for a crop of wintertime foliage and blooms that will add a little color to a chilly day. During this special workshop at the Elizabethan Gardens, gardeners of all skill levels will learn how to make the most out of their seasonal landscape, and how to plant flora and fauna that will survive and even thrive in the upcoming winter months.

Enjoy an invigorating climb to the top of the largest sand dune on the East Coast while supporting a very worthy cause with this late fall adventure that will be a fun outing for visitors and locals alike. The Climb to Conquer Cancer Outer Banks is a non-competitive event that will raise money to conquer cancer while treating participants to some of the most stunning views along the North Carolina coastline.

Indulge your taste buds with some of the best local flavor around with this annual competition that is quickly becoming a foodie favorite on the Outer Banks. The Outer Banks Shrimp Cook-off is an appetizing competition that challenges chefs from all across the coastal region to put their skills to the test, and spectators will be treated to all the delicious results along the way.

Discover how incredible the fishing off the local Hatteras Island beaches can be with this annual tournament that launches from one of the most popular destinations for fall fishing, the Avon Pier. The PBR Classic Fishing Tournament is quickly becoming one of the most highly anticipated fishing tournaments of November, and is a great chance to cash in on plenty of prizes and bragging rights while discovering just how amazing fishing on the Outer Banks can be when the temperatures cool down.

Just because the weather has turned chilly doesn’t mean that a local landscape can’t shine, even in the middle of the winter. During this special workshop, gardeners will learn how to make the most out of the cooler weather by planting festive containers gardens that will sparkle throughout the holiday season.

Enjoy an evening of literary insight into one of the world’s most famous authors with this unique lecture that’s part of the Outer Banks-wide Don and Catharine Bryan Cultural Series. During this engaging talk that’s hosted by John Noffsinger, book lovers will learn a lot about the role of women in Dicken’s arsenal of famous works, and will enjoy a fascinating afternoon that’s a perfect complement to any book club.

Ring in the holiday season with a little local color at this special holiday event that will appeal to flora and fauna fans everywhere. Poinsettia Week serves as a fantastic opportunity for visitors and locals alike to get a jump start on their holiday season by purchasing special gifts, adding a little color to their holiday décor, and just enjoying the bright flowers that are a hallmark of the holidays.

Start a Thanksgiving holiday by participating in one of the Northern Outer Banks’ favorite traditions – the Annual ADVICE 5K Turkey Trot. This event which is now in its 22^nd year attracts visitors and locals alike who want to run, walk or “trot” before diving into their afternoon Thanksgiving feast.

Get your Turkey Day celebration off to a fun and fast-paced start with this annual event that is quickly becoming a highlight of the Thanksgiving Holiday. The Surfin' Turkey 5k and Puppy Drum Run is presented by the Hatteras Island Youth Education Fund (HIYEF), and is a great opportunity to support a favorite local cause while enjoying miles of fun in the heart of Hatteras village.

Cap off a delicious Thanksgiving holiday on the beach with this special two-day event that is held at one of the Outer Banks’ favorite historic attractions. The “Garden To Hearth; Heritage Cooking And Food Preservation” event focuses on food, family, and history with a myriad of activities and cooking-related traditions that will make a visit to the Island Farm even more special, and more memorable.

Get a head start on the holiday season with this post-Thanksgiving event that offers a world of fun for visitors of all ages. Held at the flagship Kitty Hawk Kites store in Nags Head, this two-day event features amazing shopping, activities, demos and displays, and - of course - a visit by old St. Nick himself to allow kids to get a jump start on their Christmas lists.

Get into the holiday spirit while perusing a far-reaching range of arts and crafts that are delightfully one-of-a-kind with this seasonal event that always attracts locals and visiting shoppers alike. The Hatteras Island Arts and Craft Guild Holiday Show showcases a wide variety of talented regional artists and craftsmen, and is a favorite destination for holiday shoppers of all tastes who love to find those perfect coastal gifts and treasures.

Ignite your holiday spirit with this special annual event that combines the natural beauty of the Outer Banks with twinkling Christmas lights for an unforgettable display and seasonal experience. The Kites with Lights event is hosted by the flagship Kitty Hawk Kites store that’s just across the street from Jockey’s Ridge State Park, and the beautiful landscape of twinkling kites with the iconic massive sand dunes of the park in the background will be a sight that spectators won’t soon forget.

Oyster season heats up in the fall and early winter, and visitors can toast this delicious time of year at the Big Curri-Shuck at Sanctuary Vineyards. Ideal for hungry visitors, this festival combines a wealth of local seafood and regional fare to tempt visitors of all tastes, as well as plenty of activities to ensure that everyone in the family has a bushel of fun.

Ring in the holidays island-style with this seasonal parade that takes place on the waters that surrounds Ocracoke village. The Ocracoke Parade of Boats is a celebration of life on the water, and this annual procession of ships of all shapes and sizes is sure to make anyone fall in love with the coastal scene and community that calls Ocracoke Island home.

Enjoy a leisurely start to your holiday shopping adventures with this special event at one of the most beloved attractions on the Outer Banks. Ladies' Night at the Gardens allows visitors to linger, socialize, and get a jump start on holiday presents and gifts with a fun and relaxed tour of the Elizabethan Gardens on Roanoke Island.

Head to the heart of quiet downtown Manteo for this annual tradition that illuminates the beginning of the holiday season in the central Outer Banks. The Manteo Christmas Tree Lighting is a favorite holiday event for residents and visitors of all ages, and is a great way to enjoy a dose of holiday spirit in one of the most charming communities along the North Carolina coastline.

Back by popular demand, the Town of Duck invites visitors and locals alike to help them ring in the holiday season with this weekend-long celebration of all things festive. Local shops and merchants will keep their doors open late for holiday shoppers, and local restaurants will sponsor a Tapas crawl, in addition to an array of activities that are designed to ring in the season with style.  

Ring in the holiday season with style with this special class that’s designed for gardening fans and festive visitors alike. Deck The Halls with Christmas Greenery is a two-hour workshop that will brighten your upcoming holiday through a myriad of ideas that transform local flora and fauna into stunning additions to any decoration scheme.

Enjoy a traditional holiday feast before exploring the brilliant display of Winter Lights at the Elizabethan Gardens with this special one-night-only event that will appeal to foodie family members of all ages. During the Holiday Feast & Winter Lights event, guests will be treated to a huge holiday buffet dinner before taking a stroll through one of the most stunning destinations on the Outer Banks during the holidays.

Get your Outer Banks holiday off to a glittering start with this annual parade that is sure to delight visitors and locals alike. The Manteo Christmas Parade is a time-honored tradition that attracts both participants and spectators from all across the Outer Banks, and which is sure to entice anyone to get into the holiday spirit.

Poinsettias are a staple of the holiday season, and during this special workshop that’s held at the Elizabethan Gardens, visitors will learn all about this colorful plant – while enjoying a free Poinsettia plant to take home as a special gift.

The holidays and the history of Ocracoke Island are deliciously combined in this annual tour that shines a spotlight on some of the most distinctive and unique properties in Ocracoke village. The Historic Home Tour, which is presented by the Ocracoke Preservation Society, gives locals and visitors alike an opportunity to peek into some of the most stunning homes on the island, while enjoying a little local flavor and history, and a wealth of spirited holiday décor.

Everyone should have an opportunity to get into the holiday spirit – even the furry members of the family. So bring everyone in the party along for this special event that’s open to parents, kids, friends, and even dogs at the Elizabethan Gardens. On the night of WOOFstocking at Winter Lights, dogs are allowed to join in the fun and enjoy the twinkling scene of the gardens, and there are plenty of treats and surprises along the way to keep everyone in the family smiling.

Visitors who missed the annual Wings Over Water festival - or who just want a second opportunity to admire the hundreds and thousands of birds that flock to the Outer Banks – won’t want to miss this special weekend where these feathered visitors are once again in the spotlight. The Wings Over Water Encore event is a weekend-long celebration of the many wintering waterfowl that are found at the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge and beyond, and is a great way for birders to discover the off-season beauty of the OBX.

Join in the fun of one of the most festive celebrations on Hatteras Island with this annual Christmas parade that has become a decades-long tradition for locals and holiday visitors alike. The Hatteras Island Christmas Parade combines local businesses, fire departments, the US Coast Guard, and non-profit organizations in a joyful parade that will inspire anyone to get into the holiday spirit.

Kids can meet the legendary elf himself while parents can capture some amazing photos in the interior of a warm, fire-lit farmhouse at this special event that rings in the holiday season with style. Held at the Island Farm in Roanoke Island, this afternoon Meet and Greet with Santa will be a treat for family members of all ages, with tons of activities and beautiful seasonal displays to put everyone in a holiday mood.

With the holiday season just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to start planning those festive centerpieces that will be the highlight of every family meal throughout the season. Visitors who want to brighten their interior décor scheme will find a lot of tips, tricks and practical applications for making their table-scapes shine through this special program that’s hosted by the Elizabethan Gardens.

Crafting the perfect holiday wreath is a true art form, and during this special workshop, students of all ages can learn from the pros at the Elizabethan Gardens to create a piece of décor that will brighten their door all holiday long.

Follow a couple wooded roads to the heart of Kill Devil Hills to take in one of the most spectacular holiday light displays in coastal North Carolina. The annual “Poulos Family Christmas” lights display has become one of the most beloved Christmas traditions for many Outer Banks locals, and everyone is welcome to discover this expansive holiday display in person to see what all the fuss is about.

Follow a couple wooded roads to the heart of Kill Devil Hills to take in one of the most spectacular holiday light displays in coastal North Carolina. The annual “Poulos Family Christmas” lights display has become one of the most beloved Christmas traditions for many Outer Banks locals, and everyone is welcome to discover this expansive holiday display in person to see what all the fuss is about.

Follow a couple wooded roads to the heart of Kill Devil Hills to take in one of the most spectacular holiday light displays in coastal North Carolina. The annual “Poulos Family Christmas” lights display has become one of the most beloved Christmas traditions for many Outer Banks locals, and everyone is welcome to discover this expansive holiday display in person to see what all the fuss is about.

Toast the holiday season with lots of down-home flavor and big piles of seafood with this annual event that has attracted locals and visitors with great tastes for more than a decade. The Working Watermen's Oyster Roast, Shrimp Steam and Seafood Stew Fundraiser is held in between Christmas and New Year’s, and is a perfect opportunity for off-season visitors to experience all the delicious coastal fare this small community is known for.

Couples who have always dreamed about a romantic wedding on the Outer Banks will want to attend this special off-season expo that shines a spotlight on all the different wedding vendors that this scenic coastline has to offer. Sponsored by the Outer Banks Wedding Association, this two-day event has become the go-to festival for visitors from all over the country who want to discover how magical it can be to get married on the OBX.