Come to the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Visitor Center Pavillon for a children's program about the sea turtles of the Outer Banks. Learn about sea turtles through interactive games and activities for children of all ages. This program lasts 30 minutes and is free to the public.

Come meet with a Ranger for a guided tour of the 1874 Boat House and 1892 Cook House. Immerse yourself in the rich history of Life Saving Stations on the Outer Banks through captivating stories about this iconic station. Located 3.5 miles north of Avon on the sound side. Please note there are no restrooms available and the presentation and tour last 45 minutes.

First Friday is a fun-filled, family-oriented event held the first Friday of each month, in historic downtown Manteo. The sidewalks pulse with live music, magic, artisans, and much more. The Manteo Stroll featuring celebrations, specials, art openings, sales and more inside Manteo galleries, shops and restaurants also happens during First Friday.

he U.S. Waveski Surfing Championship is an exhilarating competition that brings together the best waveski surfers from across the country & internationally to showcase their skills and compete for the prestigious titles. Come out to Jennette's Pier to watch this exciting event and cheer for the competitors. It's sure to thrill all ages. This event is free to observers.

For those who want to participate in the competition, entry fees are $125 to compete in their first division and $35 for any additional divisions.
Paid divisions are U.S. Open (Men & Women), U.S. Women’s Open, Adaptive Open, Age Categories & Surf Kayak Open
Discounted Hotel Options  are available for event competitors.

Date and Time: Sep 27, 2024, 8:00 AM – Sep 29, 2024, 4:00 PM

Location: Jennette's Pier, Nags Head, 7223 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959, USA

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.

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.

Join wildlife guides for a trip around the Alligator River Wildlife Refuge and learn about the plants and animals. Bring your binoculars and camera! Drinking water and insect repellent are also recommended. The program will not occur when there is lightning, heavy wind, heavy rain, or impassable road conditions. Dress for the weather!

The Alligator River Tram Tour is $10 per adult. Children 12 and under free with one or more paying adults. Reservation required, as tram seating is limited.

Meet at Creef Cut Wildlife Trail parking lot, Hwy 64 and Milltail Road, app. 6 miles west of Manns Harbor. Call 252-216-9464 for reservations.