“Golden Hour” by Robyn Scott is the first exhibit in the 2026 Rotating Art Show series. The exhibit will be on display in the first floor conference room of the Town Hall and open from 9:00 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday (excluding holidays) from January 30-April 23, 2026. Golden Hour is a love letter to the Carolina coast, where the light hits Mother Earth with a gentle glow leading into the peaceful night sky. This collection is meant to celebrate the warm hug offered by our beautiful ocean as we drive up and down the coastal roads, exploring the many beaches and seaside shops. Many of the works feature scenes from Corolla, in particular, some of my favorite hidden soundside spots and stretches of the beach in the offseason.

Experience the magic of butterflies taking flight during the Butterfly Release at The Elizabethan Gardens. Held Wednesdays and Thursdays at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM (April through September), this interactive program allows visitors to watch newly emerged butterflies take their first flight while learning about butterfly life cycles and the plants that attract them to your own garden. Guests can add the experience to their garden admission and enjoy a close-up look at these beautiful pollinators as they are released into the gardens’ butterfly habitat.

Animal lovers are invited to help local pets find their forever homes at Salty Tails of Love Adoption Day, happening April 8, 2026, from 10:00 AM–12:30 PM at Jockey’s Ridge Crossing in Nags Head. Hosted by Kitty Hawk Kites in partnership with the Outer Banks SPCA/Dare County Animal Shelter, this heartwarming community event gives visitors the chance to meet adoptable dogs and cats and support animal rescue efforts on the Outer Banks.

Guests can stop by to adopt a pet, donate needed supplies, or learn more about local animal welfare efforts. Donations for the shelter are encouraged, and purchases of Salty Tails merchandise at Kitty Hawk Kites locations help support the cause—with $1 from each hat or shirt donated to the Outer Banks SPCA.

Whether you’re hoping to welcome a new furry family member or simply want to support a great cause, this family-friendly event offers a meaningful way to give back while enjoying a spring morning on the Outer Banks.

Come to Jockey’s Ridge Crossing to help a furry friend find a fur-ever home on these dates:

April 8th
May 27th
June 24th
July 8th
August 26th

“Golden Hour” by Robyn Scott is the first exhibit in the 2026 Rotating Art Show series. The exhibit will be on display in the first floor conference room of the Town Hall and open from 9:00 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday (excluding holidays) from January 30-April 23, 2026. Golden Hour is a love letter to the Carolina coast, where the light hits Mother Earth with a gentle glow leading into the peaceful night sky. This collection is meant to celebrate the warm hug offered by our beautiful ocean as we drive up and down the coastal roads, exploring the many beaches and seaside shops. Many of the works feature scenes from Corolla, in particular, some of my favorite hidden soundside spots and stretches of the beach in the offseason.

Experience the magic of butterflies taking flight during the Butterfly Release at The Elizabethan Gardens. Held Wednesdays and Thursdays at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM (April through September), this interactive program allows visitors to watch newly emerged butterflies take their first flight while learning about butterfly life cycles and the plants that attract them to your own garden. Guests can add the experience to their garden admission and enjoy a close-up look at these beautiful pollinators as they are released into the gardens’ butterfly habitat.

Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge is home to nearly 400 species of birds that reside here or migrate through. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, you'll enjoy this casual stroll beside North Pond. Field guides, binoculars, sunscreen, and insect repellent are recommended. Some field guides and binoculars will be available for loan. Pea Island Bird Walks are held year-round except during the Wings Over Water Wildlife Festival in October and December. Meet at the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, located on NC Highway 12 approximately 4 miles south of Oregon Inlet and 9 miles north of Rodanthe. The Pea Island Bird Walk is FREE. 

“Golden Hour” by Robyn Scott is the first exhibit in the 2026 Rotating Art Show series. The exhibit will be on display in the first floor conference room of the Town Hall and open from 9:00 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday (excluding holidays) from January 30-April 23, 2026. Golden Hour is a love letter to the Carolina coast, where the light hits Mother Earth with a gentle glow leading into the peaceful night sky. This collection is meant to celebrate the warm hug offered by our beautiful ocean as we drive up and down the coastal roads, exploring the many beaches and seaside shops. Many of the works feature scenes from Corolla, in particular, some of my favorite hidden soundside spots and stretches of the beach in the offseason.

Winter Markets are back with cozy, community-focused gatherings held under the pavilion from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on January 10, February 14, March 14, and April 11. These intimate markets feature local food vendors only, offering seasonal goods, warm treats, and delicious bites in a relaxed winter setting. Bundle up and enjoy shopping local while soaking in the cozy vibes.

The Roanoke Island American Indian Festival & Powwow is a vibrant cultural celebration honoring the heritage of the Algonquian peoples of coastal North Carolina. This family-friendly event brings together tribal members, dancers, drummers, artisans, and community members for a weekend of traditional music, dancing, storytelling, crafts, and Native foods. Visitors have the opportunity to learn about the history and living culture of the Roanoke-Hatteras people while enjoying demonstrations, vendors, and cultural exhibits. See the event website for additional details. The event is FREE and open to the public.

The Roanoke Island American Indian Festival & Powwow is a vibrant cultural celebration honoring the heritage of the Algonquian peoples of coastal North Carolina. This family-friendly event brings together tribal members, dancers, drummers, artisans, and community members for a weekend of traditional music, dancing, storytelling, crafts, and Native foods. Visitors have the opportunity to learn about the history and living culture of the Roanoke-Hatteras people while enjoying demonstrations, vendors, and cultural exhibits. See the event website for additional details. The event is FREE and open to the public.

Head to Jockey’s Ridge State Park for a ranger-led one-mile loop hike along the scenic Soundside Nature Trail. This easy walk takes you through maritime thickets, wetlands, and sandy shoreline habitats, offering an up-close look at the plants and wildlife that thrive at the base of the towering dunes. Along the way, the ranger will share insights into the delicate ecosystems that connect the dunes to the Roanoke Sound and why they are so vital to the Outer Banks. This free, family-friendly program is open to the public. Bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes for a refreshing and educational outdoor experience.

“Golden Hour” by Robyn Scott is the first exhibit in the 2026 Rotating Art Show series. The exhibit will be on display in the first floor conference room of the Town Hall and open from 9:00 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday (excluding holidays) from January 30-April 23, 2026. Golden Hour is a love letter to the Carolina coast, where the light hits Mother Earth with a gentle glow leading into the peaceful night sky. This collection is meant to celebrate the warm hug offered by our beautiful ocean as we drive up and down the coastal roads, exploring the many beaches and seaside shops. Many of the works feature scenes from Corolla, in particular, some of my favorite hidden soundside spots and stretches of the beach in the offseason.