Wings Over Water (WOW) is an annual national wildlife refuge fundraising event that has grown from a few activities in 1997, to over 70 birding, paddling, photography, art & natural history programs. The festival takes place in 6 national wildlife refuges over 6 northeast North Carolina counties. It is one of the premier east coast wildlife festivals. Locally, many activities take place on National Park Service property, specifically Cape Hatteras National Seashore, one of the Festival partners. See the event website for a full list of all the programs and activities offered during this festival. There is certain to be something for everyone in the family.

In October, the Vault Gallery will feature mixed media by Virginia artist Andy Harris. SUN-MADE is an exhibition of new, original collage works that explore the dual role of the sun, highlighting its power to nurture life through photosynthesis with simultaneously eroding the vibrancy of pigments. The process in which the paintings were created mirrors the balance between creation and destruction inherent in nature.​ SUN-MADE is free and open to the public. It will be on display in the Vault Gallery from October 4-26, 2024.

The 15th Annual NCBBA Red Drum Tournament will be held OCTOBER 23-26. 2024. It is open to the first 500 anglers who wish to enter. It is not an invitational tournament but is an individual tournament with a team component. There will be 60 hours of fishing on the Hatteras Island beaches between Ramp 23 and possibly to ramp 45 (South Beach). See the event website for a full schedule of events. Registration is required with fees beginning at $130.

Come to Hatteras Island from October 26 to November 2, 2024, for OBX Wind, one of the largest windsurfing competitions on the East Coast! This thrilling event brings together windsurfing enthusiasts of all skill levels to compete in various categories, from slalom racing to freestyle events, against the stunning backdrop of the Outer Banks. Whether you’re a seasoned windsurfer or a spectator, OBX Wind offers an exciting week of high-speed action, camaraderie, and unforgettable coastal views. Don’t miss the chance to experience the adrenaline and energy of this premier windsurfing competition!

Giant Jellies, by artist Carol Willett, are sculptures on display in Dare Arts Center. This display will be in the outdoor courtyard from September 6 through mid-November. 

There is something exquisite about the simplicity of jellies. Their color, shape and size are mesmerizing. This trio of Giant Jellies were created to spark curiosity about these magical creatures. The bells were sculpted over exercise balls, then drilled, sanded, painted and sealed. The colorful tentacles are made from deconstructed bath sponges and recycled beads. The reefs and their creatures are built out of expanding foam and wet sand, plus polymer clay and up-cycled plastic bottles. Electrical conduit, bicycle wheels and plywood make up the armatures.

THE SECRET IS OUT!! The 13 Nights of Halloween Island event running from October 19th - October 31st in the Downtown Manteo Social District! Enjoy 13 nights of spooky fun around the Walking Waterfront. This TRICK-OR-TREATING…FOR ADULTS!

Enjoy Halloween treats and drinks at local businesses including That Art Place, Lost Colony Tavern, Olives, Poor Richard's, 1587 Lounge, Vineyards on the Scuppernong, NouVines, Old Tom's, The Pioneer Theater, Kiiind Cocktails, Ortega'z, and Outer Banks Distilling as you stroll around the Social District enjoying the Manteo Waterfront Marina decorated for the Halloween season.

Bring your friends and family to celebrate the arrival of fall at Island Farm! On Saturdays in October, Island Farm will host its 13th annual Pumpkin Patch event. There will be no shortage of memories made while finding the perfect pumpkin in the patch to participating in fall games, making dolls and candles. In addition to the farm’s activities, there will be breakfast biscuits, as well as a variety of local art vendors and locally-grown produce for purchase on site. This event will take place on October 5, 12, 19, and 26 from 9 am until 3 pm Admission for visitors ages four and older is $10. Children 0-3 years old are admitted for free.