From November 8 to December 20, 2025, the Vault Gallery will feature a collection of first-edition, framed original photographs by Baxter Miller. The exhibit, Inheritance, examines the liminality of sacred places. Ethereal vignettes of ancestral grounds anchor the photography exhibition by Baxter Miller, a descendant of a Hatteras Island family who arrived in the 1700s. Printed and framed oversized on Hahnemühle watercolor rag, the work stands in stark contrast to traditional depictions of landscape.

The 12 Bars of Christmas return for their third year, bringing 33 days of festive food, drinks, and holiday events across Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, Nags Head, and Manteo. Visit all 12 decorated bars, pick up a passport to support local charities, and collect stamps for a keepsake ornament and a chance to win prizes. This family-friendly holiday celebration runs from November 28 through New Year’s, sponsored in part by the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau.

Experience the magic of the holidays at the Corolla Village Holiday Market on Friday 11/28 4-8 and Saturday 11/29 4-8. Historic Corolla Village comes alive with local artists, craft vendors, twinkling lights, festive music, and the warmth of holiday cheer. Corolla Village BBQ will be open along with another food truck and sweet treat vendor. Christmas music and live music at Corolla Village Inn. This event will be in conjunction with the Currituck Beach Lighthouse 150th anniversary party. The WEVS school will be caroling. There will be a fire pit with S’mores and plenty of hot chocolate from the Kind Cup. Stroll through the sparkling village and shop unique local finds from Corolla Village merchants. This free, family-friendly event is the perfect way to celebrate the season, with something for everyone to enjoy.

The Elizabethan Gardens’ beloved WinterLights celebration returns November 21–December 30, 2025, transforming ten acres of gardens into a glittering holiday wonderland. Visitors can stroll illuminated garden paths from 6–9 p.m. on select evenings, enjoying thousands of sparkling lights, festive décor, and the warmth of an open-air fire. Seasonal plants and unique gifts will be available in the Gift Shop and Nursery, with live entertainment featured on select nights. Timed-entry tickets are sold online only, and the event is weather-dependent. Overflow parking and shuttle service will be available on select weekends. Whether you’re planning a magical family outing or a festive holiday party, WinterLights offers a joyful way to celebrate the season in the heart of the Outer Banks.

Adults: $22; Youth (ages 2 to 17): $14; Child (under 2): FREE; Dog: $6

Get ready to shop, stroll, and soak up the holiday spirit at Dowdy Park! Come for the festive Holiday Markets at Dowdy Park for a celebration of local makers, coastal charm, and community cheer.

Market Dates:
November 8, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
November 29, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
December 13, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Dowdy Park, Nags Head
Enjoy the sights, sounds, and smiles of the season while supporting small businesses that make our community special. Mark your calendar, bring your friends, and let’s make this holiday season merry at Dowdy Park!

From November 8 to December 20, 2025, the Vault Gallery will feature a collection of first-edition, framed original photographs by Baxter Miller. The exhibit, Inheritance, examines the liminality of sacred places. Ethereal vignettes of ancestral grounds anchor the photography exhibition by Baxter Miller, a descendant of a Hatteras Island family who arrived in the 1700s. Printed and framed oversized on Hahnemühle watercolor rag, the work stands in stark contrast to traditional depictions of landscape.

The 12 Bars of Christmas return for their third year, bringing 33 days of festive food, drinks, and holiday events across Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, Nags Head, and Manteo. Visit all 12 decorated bars, pick up a passport to support local charities, and collect stamps for a keepsake ornament and a chance to win prizes. This family-friendly holiday celebration runs from November 28 through New Year’s, sponsored in part by the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau.

This program is FREE to the public. Challenge a ranger to a round of target practice with an atlatl.  This is an example of primitive technology Native Americans and early people worldwide used for thousands of years to survive.  Additional games will be set up for visitors to play. This is a great activity for young explorers and big adventurers!

Recommended for ages 6 and up.  

Activity will take place near the end of the visitor center's boardwalk.