Manteo Events - 2019 Schedule

The history of our modern America began here…experience it in an entirely new way. The Lost Colony is thrilled to present this interactive theatrical experience! Step back in time with us as we uncover the mysteries of Roanoke Island through firsthand encounters with the ghosts of those who lived here. You will be guided by Trevor Janzen, Founder of Astral Plane Investigations, on an interactive adventure exploring paranormal activity hotspots, around the grounds of the Waterside Theatre and Fort Raleigh National Historic Site. Through ghostly encounters, you’ll learn about Elizabethan history, early colonial exploration and the importance of these expeditions to the English and other European nations, the Native Americans that lived here, and the 1587 colony.

Grab a mint julip and don your best and most elaborate hat for this fun and truly southern event that takes place at one of the most enchanting destinations on the Outer Banks. The Kentucky Derby Party is a festive celebration that is held at the famed Elizabethan Gardens, and which features a host of revels and embellishments to coincide with the annual race, and which will benefit a number of worthy local causes.

The history of our modern America began here…experience it in an entirely new way. The Lost Colony is thrilled to present this interactive theatrical experience! Step back in time with us as we uncover the mysteries of Roanoke Island through firsthand encounters with the ghosts of those who lived here. You will be guided by Trevor Janzen, Founder of Astral Plane Investigations, on an interactive adventure exploring paranormal activity hotspots, around the grounds of the Waterside Theatre and Fort Raleigh National Historic Site. Through ghostly encounters, you’ll learn about Elizabethan history, early colonial exploration and the importance of these expeditions to the English and other European nations, the Native Americans that lived here, and the 1587 colony.

Grab a mint julip and don your best and most elaborate hat for this fun and truly southern event that takes place at one of the most enchanting destinations on the Outer Banks. The Kentucky Derby Party is a festive celebration that is held at the famed Elizabethan Gardens, and which features a host of revels and embellishments to coincide with the annual race, and which will benefit a number of worthy local causes.

Guests will be entertained with a fashion show, program highlights as well as artwork in the form of jewelry, sculptures, paintings and pottery, created by College of The Albemarle students, alumni and instructors. Tickets are available for $75 a person and includes heavy hors d’oeuvres, champagne, wine and beer. Live music and a silent auction will round out the evening. This fund has the potential to help so many students — requirements are only that the student be a Dare County resident, maintain a 2.0 grade-point average and demonstrate financial need. Even part-time students are eligible. The more money in the fund, the more students that can be helped. Thank you for your support!

Grab a mint julip and don your best and most elaborate hat for this fun and truly southern event that takes place at one of the most enchanting destinations on the Outer Banks. The Kentucky Derby Party is a festive celebration that is held at the famed Elizabethan Gardens, and which features a host of revels and embellishments to coincide with the annual race, and which will benefit a number of worthy local causes.

Children & Youth Partnership for Dare County will hold its 12^th Annual KidsFest on Friday, May 3, 2019 from 9:30am-12:30pm at Roanoke Island Festival Park in Manteo. This annual event is a FREE and fun-filled day where children, ages five and under, can enjoy face painting, bubbles, ice cream and snowballs, arts and crafts, music, large vehicles, and much more!

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.

Head to Roanoke Island in the scenic month of May to enjoy some of the best music of the year at the popular Bluegrass Island Festival. This annual festival has rapidly blossomed into one of the most anticipated music events along the Outer Banks, and attendees will be treated to a wealth of acclaimed bands, from legendary national acts, to homegrown bluegrass performers who will have everyone’s toes tapping.

Toast the beginning of the 2019 season for one of the country’s most acclaimed outdoor dramas, The Lost Colony, with this special opening performance at the famed Waterside Theater in the heart of Downtown Manteo. The Lost Colony is the longest-running outdoor drama in America, and is an acclaimed production that tells the story of the first colonists to arrive from England to the “New World,” eventually creating a settlement just steps away from where the performance takes place.

Enjoy one of the most scenic corners of the Outer Banks while joining in the fun of one of the longest running festivals in Manteo by attending the 44th annual Dare Day Festival. This full-day event is held along the downtown waterfront, and features a wide array of activities and attractions that shine a spotlight on the local Manteo culture. Live music will kick off at around 11:00 a.m., with the original Rhondels – a famed soul and beach music band - on the Downtown stage. Throughout the day, there will also be a number of events designed for water and OBX lovers of all ages, including the now famous Hogway Speedway Racing Pigs, the locally beloved “Anything that Floats but a Boat” Race, the Raingutter Regatta, a Kids Zone, and the annual competition for the best cake and pie in Dare County with a coveted blue ribbon prize.

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.

Crowder & Colton Dixon Concert at Festival Park. VIP ticket $75 includes early entry at 5:30pm, Meet & Greet with Crowder and Colton Dixon from 5:30 – 6:30pm, and up front reserved seating (chair included). Priority Ticket $45 includes early entry at 5:30pm, up front seating

The Outer Banks has a rich sailing culture that seemingly begins and ends in Manteo, and young visitors who want to join in the fun, and who want to get their toes wet in a new sport, can sign up for the weekly Summer Youth Sailing Camp which is held every Friday all summer long.

The Outer Banks has a rich sailing culture that seemingly begins and ends in Manteo, and young visitors who want to join in the fun, and who want to get their toes wet in a new sport, can sign up for the weekly Summer Youth Sailing Camp which is held every Friday all summer long.

The Town of Manteo will host an incredible display of fireworks over the water on 4^th of July that will make any Independence Day celebration truly memorable. Launched over the Roanoke Sound and Shallowbag Bay, visitors can find a spot along the downtown docks or a seat at the famed Roanoke Island Festival Park to catch an incredible show with a stunning backdrop.

Take a step back in time to the Outer Banks of the mid-1800s, and celebrate Independence Day in a historical fashion, with a visit to The Island Farm. Located in the heart of Manteo, The Island Farm is a unique attraction that takes visitors on a tour of what life was like for island residents more than 150 years ago. Featuring a wealth of historic homes with period artifacts, live farm animals, and costumed interpreters who explain what life was like for these original locals, The Island Farm is both an educational and utterly fascinating attraction for visitors of all ages.

Enjoy the fireworks display with a rousing roster of patriotic music with a special performance by the 208th Army Band. The concert is free to the public, and visitors will enjoy fantastic music in addition to amazing fireworks over the water when the skies get dark.

The Outer Banks has a rich sailing culture that seemingly begins and ends in Manteo, and young visitors who want to join in the fun, and who want to get their toes wet in a new sport, can sign up for the weekly Summer Youth Sailing Camp which is held every Friday all summer long.

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 Outer Banks has a rich sailing culture that seemingly begins and ends in Manteo, and young visitors who want to join in the fun, and who want to get their toes wet in a new sport, can sign up for the weekly Summer Youth Sailing Camp which is held every Friday all summer long.

The Outer Banks has a rich sailing culture that seemingly begins and ends in Manteo, and young visitors who want to join in the fun, and who want to get their toes wet in a new sport, can sign up for the weekly Summer Youth Sailing Camp which is held every Friday all summer long.

Young visitors can enjoy a full week of fishing at some of the hottest spots in the central Outer Banks at this day camp that’s designed for budding anglers. The Fisherman’s Camp, which is orchestrated by the North Carolina Aquarium at Roanoke Island, will feature a full week of fishing from local piers, the surf, and the sound waters, and will hopefully result in plenty of great “fish stories” for everyone involved.

Join in the fun of one of the summer’s most highly anticipated fishing tournaments while supporting a wonderful local cause by signing up for the Carolina Boat Builders Tournament. Held during the end of July – which is a prime time of year for exceptional fishing – this tournament that celebrates its 19th year in 2019 combines multiple days of angling action with some exceptional events that highlight the best of the Outer Banks.

The Outer Banks has a rich sailing culture that seemingly begins and ends in Manteo, and young visitors who want to join in the fun, and who want to get their toes wet in a new sport, can sign up for the weekly Summer Youth Sailing Camp which is held every Friday all summer long.

The town of Manteo has a rich history that’s connected to sailing and life on the water, and competitive sailors and spectators alike can celebrate this heritage with the Annual One-Design Regatta.

The Outer Banks has a rich sailing culture that seemingly begins and ends in Manteo, and young visitors who want to join in the fun, and who want to get their toes wet in a new sport, can sign up for the weekly Summer Youth Sailing Camp which is held every Friday all summer long.

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.

Let the young anglers in your family enjoy a day of fun and fishing on the water by taking part in the 4th Annual Youth Fishing Tournament in the heart of downtown Manteo.

The Alice Kelly Memorial Tournament has been a tradition on the Outer Banks for 30 years, and is one of the most famous offshore fishing tournaments where only the ladies are allowed to compete.

Head to the waterfront docks of Manteo to take part in one of the biggest offshore fishing tournaments of the year at the annual Pirates Cove Billfish Tournament.

The Alice Kelly Memorial Tournament has been a tradition on the Outer Banks for 30 years, and is one of the most famous offshore fishing tournaments where only the ladies are allowed to compete.

Head to the waterfront docks of Manteo to take part in one of the biggest offshore fishing tournaments of the year at the annual Pirates Cove Billfish Tournament.

The two day festival is open to artists from throughout the country. The juried show will exhibit original works from 75 artists from throughout the east coast. Over a dozen artists are new to the show this year and are extremely excited to be a part of such a unique and established Festival. Exhibitors include watercolors, oil & acrylic, graphics, drawings, photography, jewelry, sculpture, and pottery. The Festival provides artists and opportunity to display and sell their creative work and compete for awards.

The Elizabethan Gardens celebrates the birth of Virginia Dare, the first English child born in the New World, with special discounted rates on admission to the gardens, as well as a wealth of activities that will delight young and old visitors alike. On Virginia Dare's Birthday, the rate to enter the gardens will drop with $2 off admission to commemorate Virginia's 431st birthday in 2019. 

Once a year, The Lost Colony holds a special performance that commemorates the birthday of the first English Child born in the New World, Virginia Dare, and over the years this unique event has come to be known locally as Virginia Dare Night.

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.

Triathletes train for months to achieve their dream. Come to the Outer Banks Triathlon and experience the enthusiam, inspiration and skill! The Sprint Triathlon distance is perfect for those beginner triathletes. Move up to the Olympic Triathlon distance or choose the Half Triathlon distance and see if you have what it takes!

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.

Food, drink, and history are all deliciously combined at The Lost Colony Wine & Culinary Festival – a unique afternoon event that features plenty of decadent tastes and fun for foodies of all varieties.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

Through arts, music, and miles of fun, the Outer Banks celebrates visiting and local veterans alike through this special event that has a wealth of ways to stay entertained while discovering the heart of the islands’ cultural scene. OBX Veterans Week is an annual event which honors veterans and their families through live concerts, cool activities and arts in downtown Manteo, and so much more.

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.

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.

Through arts, music, and miles of fun, the Outer Banks celebrates visiting and local veterans alike through this special event that has a wealth of ways to stay entertained while discovering the heart of the islands’ cultural scene. OBX Veterans Week is an annual event which honors veterans and their families through live concerts, cool activities and arts in downtown Manteo, and so much more.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Ring in the New Year in the spot where the New World began at this fun and family-friendly celebration that takes place in the heart of Downtown Manteo. The New Year in The New World is a perfect destination for a family-oriented New Year’s Eve that visitors won’t soon forget, and it features a wealth of activities, attractions, and other fun to start 2020 off with a bang.