The 12 Bars of Christmas in the Outer Banks, North Carolina, is a popular annual event that combines holiday cheer with a festive pub crawl. The event takes place at 12 local bars and restaurants, each offering a different holiday-themed drink, dish and/or special activity for the occasion. It's a fun way for both locals and visitors to celebrate the season while enjoying the vibrant bar scene of the Outer Banks. Eleven of the bars double as family-friendly restaurants. We plan many special events for kids such as cookie decorating, crafts, trivia, and character dining. All the stops offer a holiday kids menu with festive drinks and desserts. This year, the event introduces Christmas Island Kids Quest! See the event website for participating restaurants and additional information.

Children grades Kindergarten through 7th will enjoy the "Hooked on Books Club" in the Manteo Library Meeting Room. Join Ms. Tammy to receive a copy of the current Book Club book. There will be a Trivia Game about the book and prizes! Come Get Hooked on Books!

Join a park Ranger for an exciting dune hike. This guided hike will take you on a one mile loop hike along the Soundside Nature Trail.  Learn more about the environment found at the base of the dunes, including the Roanoke Sound and the unique ecosystem at Jockeys Ridge. Observe plants and learn about the wildlife at Jockey’s Ridge. This hike will take approximately 45 minutes and will meet at the Visitor’s Center Pavilion. Please wear appropriate shoes, sunscreen, and bring water! This is free and open to the public.