The Wings Over Water Wildlife Festival takes place October 14–19, 2025, across six national wildlife refuges in northeastern North Carolina. This celebrated event offers more than 60 programs designed to connect people with the natural beauty and wildlife of the Outer Banks and surrounding areas. Activities include birding trips, paddling excursions, photography workshops, and guided nature walks, all led by expert naturalists and local guides. The festival promotes conservation and education through the Coastal Wildlife Refuge Society and attracts nature enthusiasts from across the country. This year’s keynote speaker is Brian Patteson, who will present “Pelagic Seabirds off Cape Hatteras,” sharing striking images and insights from his many offshore birding adventures. An additional Wings Over Water Encore event will be held December 5–7, 2025, for participants who want to experience more of the region’s winter wildlife. 

See the event schedule at https://wingsoverwater.org/event-schedule/ for a list of daily events and cost(s). Events take place at multiple locations.

Fall 2025 Installation: Souvenir by artist Todd Hale will be on display in The Courtyard Fall of 2025. The mixed media installation will open at 6:00 pm on Friday, September 5 and remain on display through mid-November. More information on this installation below.​​​​​

On First Friday, October 3, Halloween Island kicks off with 13 Nefarious Nights of 13 Halloween Bars, each uniquely themed with its own unique Halloween name and theme. Pick up a HALLOWEEN ISLAND PASSPORT at any of the 13 Halloween Bars and creep your way through Manteo for an exclusive Passport Completion Reward!

Along the way, check out the zombie-themed food & drink menus at GORTEGA’Z, a Zombie Apocalypse Bar by Ortega'z Southwestern Grill!
Halloween Island runs every Thursday through Saturday throughout the month of October, and is brought to you by The Outer Banks Visitors Bureau along with support from our many other local sponsors. Bus services are available through Outer Banks Adventures, the Official Transportation Partner of HALLOWEEN ISLAND!

In October our Vault Gallery will feature paintings by Willow Rea Temple. The month-long exhibit, "Little Worlds and Ephemeral Life", is a nod to the bittersweet notes of nostalgia. This series of paintings was inspired by vintage photos of local life with many photo references being sourced from the Outer Banks History Center and others found in friends and family photo albums.

Willow uses a variety of mediums and bold colors to weave new tales into past life, making each image a timeless reminder of the brevity of youth. As you look at each character depicted, imagine all the different “little worlds” they live in. Many of our life experiences are unique, but most of them are shared, connecting us all to each other.

There will be an opening reception on Friday, October 3 from 6pm to 8pm, where visitors can meet Willow and view her work. The opening reception is during downtown Manteo's First Friday festivities, and is free and open to the public.

Little Worlds and Ephemeral Life will be on display in the Vault Gallery October 3 - November 1, 2025.

Dare Arts cordially invites you to participate in The Great Art Heist. Bidding will begin at 6:00pm on Friday, October 3 in Dare Arts’ Courtroom Gallery and online on the button below.

The Great Art Heist will showcase pieces by local and regional visual artists plus experiences by performing artists. This special event will serve as Dare Arts' annual fundraiser.

Registration to bid will be open in October on the button below. Advance registration is encouraged, so that you can get straight to bidding once the auction is open. Please note that even if you visit The Great Art Heist in-person, you still have to bid online.

If you can't make it to opening night, plan a private viewing of The Great Art Heist with a group of friends during the month. To schedule a private viewing, please email Dare Arts Executive Director Jessica Sands at DareArtsInfo@gmail.com. 

The auction will be open for bidding until 8:00pm on Thursday, October 23.

Artisans bring forth a delightful array of trinkets and treasures that whisper stories of love and creativity. From soothing teas and enchanting candles to captivating home decor, handbags, and accessories, there is something to inspire every heart.  Delight in the whimsical world of kids' toys and explore charming figurines that add character to any space. Adorn yourself with exquisite jewelry, or find the perfect keychain to keep your keys grounded in positivity. Each handcrafted item radiates unique energy, fostering connection and joy.

Each market, offers craft sessions inside the shop that cater to all ages! Immerse yourself in a world of creativity and connection as you explore various projects designed to spark your imagination and nurture your spirit.
Celebrate the spirit of community the second Saturday of every month.

The 14th Annual Outer Banks Bluegrass Island Festival returns in 2025 with three full days of top-tier bluegrass music and community spirit. Held October 16-18, the gates open each day at 11:00 AM, and performances run into the evening. Headlining acts include Rhonda Vincent & The Rage, Malpass Brothers, The Steeldrivers, PAM Tillis, Ricky Skaggs, Steep Canyon Rangers, and many more. The festival also offers a VIP experience with reserved seating, backstage lounges, early entry, a daily lunch buffet (featuring local seafood, BBQ, fried chicken, and more), and access to meet the artists. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer to bluegrass, this festival offers something for everyone—from stunning performances to good food and camaraderie in a beautiful Outer Banks setting. See the event website for a full schedule and to purchase tickets. Ticket prices start at $101.12. Children 10 & under are FREE with a paid adult.