Outer Banks Tours Events - 2026 Schedule

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 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 to participate.

Thrill to front-row views of black bears, deer, and even alligators from the safety of a vehicle with a special Alligator River Guided Open-Air Tram Tour. Held weekly in the summer months, these unique tours present a wild opportunity to check out the local wildlife while learning all about what makes this region wholly unique.

Step inside Ocracoke's rich history during the OPS Historic Homes Tour, a special event presented by the Ocracoke Preservation Society that offers visitors a rare opportunity to explore some of the island's most treasured historic homes. Set within Ocracoke's nationally recognized Historic District, this unique tour celebrates the island's distinctive architecture, maritime heritage, and generations of families who have shaped the community.

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.

Thrill to front-row views of black bears, deer, and even alligators from the safety of a vehicle with a special Alligator River Guided Open-Air Tram Tour. Held weekly in the summer months, these unique tours present a wild opportunity to check out the local wildlife while learning all about what makes this region wholly unique.

Experience the charm of the holiday season in historic downtown Manteo with the annual Holiday Tour of Homes, a beloved Outer Banks tradition presented by the Manteo Preservation Trust. This festive event offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore beautifully decorated homes and historic properties while discovering the architectural character, rich history, and welcoming atmosphere of Roanoke Island.

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 multiple-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.

The OBX Jeep Mutiny brings Jeep enthusiasts from across the country to the Outer Banks for a high-energy weekend filled with custom vehicles, beach-town fun, and coastal adventure. The popular event has become a favorite gathering for Jeep owners and fans who come to the OBX to show off their rides, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of the Outer Banks community.