Activities & Events
Seasons of the Outer Banks

Winter

"Nutmegs and ginger, cinnamon and cloves,
And they gave me this jolly red nose." - Thomas Ravenscroft

   Winter's chilliest days bring the heartiest of souls to the Outer Banks and Roanoke Island because they know this is the time to experience the area as only those that have lived on these shores know it. Crisp, sunny days accented with occasional, howling winds, raging surf or a good ol' nor'easter! It is truly a great time of the year where ones' experiences are limited by Mother Nature' intensity.

   It can be one of the best times to walk the beaches all bundled up in search for treasures tossed up by the winter sea! At days end, return to sit by a warm fire and feast on deliciously prepared desserts served with a cup of hot coffee, chocolate or cider.

   This is also the time of year for celebrating. Roanoke Island offers many wonderful events and festivities during this time of the year. History and tradition are important to this community and so many of the events are centered around it's English heritage in addition to it's history. The month of December is filled with special activities that include: Lighting of the town Christmas tree and parade, an historic homes tour, and Christmas Eve carolers strolling and singing through the streets of Manteo. New Years Eve is celebrated on the Waterfront with the community coming together to begin a new year. And, of course, Valentines is always a special time for lovers and romantics to get away to a place where they can begin or renew their relationships.

   All in all, this is the season that is often overlooked for coming to the Outer Banks. But, look again - it may be just the right time for you.

Notable Events:

December . . .

   The Littlest Angel by The Tarradiddle Players, Roanoke Island Festival Park, Film Theatre, 252-475-1506.

   Annual Lighting of the Town Christmas Tree & Christmas Parade, Manteo Waterfront, 252-475-5629. On the first weekend in December, Manteo gets ready for the holiday season. Friday night is the lighting ceremony features caroling, a yule log, cake, hot chocolate and loads of townspeople who gather in the holiday spirit. On Saturday morning the parade features floats, dancers, bands and Santa.

   5th Annual Holiday Tour of Homes, Manteo Preservation Trust's, Manteo, 252-473-5548. The 4th Annual Holiday Tour of Homes will feature 9 homes located within easy strolling distance in the historic downtown waterfront area of Manteo. All homes are beautifully decorated for the season.

   101st Annual 1st First Flight Celebration, Wright Brothers National Memorial. 252-441-7430.

January . . .

   26th Annual Frank Stick Memorial Art Show, Nags Head. 252-473-5888 or 441-6584.

February . . .

   Roanoke Island 1862 - A Civil War Living History Weekend. Roanoke Island Festival Park, Outdoor Pavilion, (252) 475-1506. A two-day festival with re-enactors, living history, crafters, demonstrations, presentations and more.

March . . .

   Theatre of Dare Winter Production, "Life Goes On," Manteo, 441-6726.

    7th Annual Priceless Pieces Past & Present Quilt Extravaganza, Roanoke Island Festival Park, Manteo. (252) 475-1500. A popular quilt show organized by the Teacup Quilters, Past and Present features old and new quilts belonging to Dare County Residents.

For full listing of all Activities & Events and Information
on the Outer Banks of North Carolina
The Outer Banks Visitors Bureau
The Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce
The North Carolina Department of Tourism

The bees are stirring - birds are on the wind -
And Winter slumbering in the open air,
Wears on his smiling face a dream of Spring!
- Samuel Taylor Coleridge