Give a little back to the beach this Labor Day weekend by joining the Surfrider Foundation Outer Banks Chapter for its Labor Day Beach Cleanups, September 5–8. Locals and visitors are invited to help remove litter and debris from Outer Banks beaches while enjoying some time outdoors and helping protect the coastline we all love.

The cleanup effort runs throughout the holiday weekend, with volunteers able to choose from available cleanup opportunities through Surfrider’s online registration. It’s a simple, family-friendly way to make a difference, whether you live on the Outer Banks or are spending the weekend here. Surfrider’s Outer Banks Chapter works year-round to protect local beaches, ocean access and coastal environments through cleanups, conservation programs and community involvement.

Get Labor Day off to an active start with the 3rd Annual Labor Day Lighthouse 5K in Buxton. Runners will make their way through the newly refurbished Cape Hatteras Lighthouse grounds, with scenic views of the iconic lighthouse and a tour through the surrounding park.

The first 200 registered participants receive a commemorative race shirt, eco-friendly reusable cup and finisher medal.

Date: Monday, September 7, 2026
Time: 7:30–9:00 a.m.
Location: Old Lighthouse Beach Access, Buxton, NC 27920
Registration: $40; price increases after August 1 to $45
Registration Required: Yes

Race Perks: The first 200 registrants receive a commemorative shirt, reusable eco-friendly cup and finisher medal.

Start your Labor Day morning with a run through one of the Outer Banks' most recognizable and historic settings.

Step into an immersive outdoor art experience at Dare Arts' Courtyard this summer with Weather the Storm, a captivating mixed-media installation by artist Lara E. Parks. Blending light, shadow, sound, movement, and fabric, the installation transforms with changing weather and natural light, inviting visitors to return throughout the season to experience it in new ways.

Celebrate the opening during First Friday on Friday, July 3, from 6:00–8:00 p.m., where you can meet the artist and enjoy live music by The Blue Crab Boys in the Courtyard. The installation will remain on display through the fall, offering a unique outdoor art experience in the heart of downtown Manteo. Be sure to walk through and enjoy the art!

Give a little back to the beach this Labor Day weekend by joining the Surfrider Foundation Outer Banks Chapter for its Labor Day Beach Cleanups, September 5–8. Locals and visitors are invited to help remove litter and debris from Outer Banks beaches while enjoying some time outdoors and helping protect the coastline we all love.

The cleanup effort runs throughout the holiday weekend, with volunteers able to choose from available cleanup opportunities through Surfrider’s online registration. It’s a simple, family-friendly way to make a difference, whether you live on the Outer Banks or are spending the weekend here. Surfrider’s Outer Banks Chapter works year-round to protect local beaches, ocean access and coastal environments through cleanups, conservation programs and community involvement.

Step into an immersive outdoor art experience at Dare Arts' Courtyard this summer with Weather the Storm, a captivating mixed-media installation by artist Lara E. Parks. Blending light, shadow, sound, movement, and fabric, the installation transforms with changing weather and natural light, inviting visitors to return throughout the season to experience it in new ways.

Celebrate the opening during First Friday on Friday, July 3, from 6:00–8:00 p.m., where you can meet the artist and enjoy live music by The Blue Crab Boys in the Courtyard. The installation will remain on display through the fall, offering a unique outdoor art experience in the heart of downtown Manteo. Be sure to walk through and enjoy the art!

From Sept. 2–4, Artists will take to the outdoors across the Outer Banks during Dare Arts’ Fresh — A Plein Air Event, celebrating the tradition of painting en plein air — or “in the open air.” Participating artists will create works inspired by Outer Banks landscapes, waterways, and coastal scenery.

The finished pieces will be featured in a September exhibit at the Dare Arts Gallery. A free public opening reception will be held during First Friday on Friday, Sept. 4 at 6 p.m., offering visitors a chance to see the freshly created artwork and meet participating artists.

Location: Dare Arts, 300 Queen Elizabeth Ave., Manteo
Event dates: Sept. 2–4
Public opening reception: Friday, Sept. 4 at 6 p.m.
Exhibit: Sept. 5–25, Tues-Fri (10am - 5pm), Sat (10 am - 4 pm), Sun (10 am - 3 pm)
Opening reception admission: Free

New to roller skating or curious about roller derby? The Kill Devil Derby Brigade hosts New Skater Night on the first Tuesday of every month, offering a fun, welcoming introduction to skating basics in a non-contact setting. Sessions run from 6–8 p.m. at Aviation Skate Park in Kill Devil Hills. Full safety gear is required, and loaner gear may be available. No experience needed, just a positive, resilient attitude and a willingness to learn.

Discover the mysterious side of Ocracoke Island on an evening walking tour filled with local legends, fascinating history, and ghostly tales. Choose between the Down Point Tour, featuring stories near the Ocracoke Lighthouse, or the 'Round Creek Tour, exploring the historic Howard Street area. Each tour is led by knowledgeable local guides who bring the island's rich past—and its lingering spirits—to life.

Tours are offered most Tuesdays and Fridays from May 19 through September 29, beginning promptly at 7:30 p.m. and lasting approximately 90 minutes. Advance online reservations are required, and space is limited.

Step into an immersive outdoor art experience at Dare Arts' Courtyard this summer with Weather the Storm, a captivating mixed-media installation by artist Lara E. Parks. Blending light, shadow, sound, movement, and fabric, the installation transforms with changing weather and natural light, inviting visitors to return throughout the season to experience it in new ways.

Celebrate the opening during First Friday on Friday, July 3, from 6:00–8:00 p.m., where you can meet the artist and enjoy live music by The Blue Crab Boys in the Courtyard. The installation will remain on display through the fall, offering a unique outdoor art experience in the heart of downtown Manteo. Be sure to walk through and enjoy the art!

From Sept. 2–4, Artists will take to the outdoors across the Outer Banks during Dare Arts’ Fresh — A Plein Air Event, celebrating the tradition of painting en plein air — or “in the open air.” Participating artists will create works inspired by Outer Banks landscapes, waterways, and coastal scenery.

The finished pieces will be featured in a September exhibit at the Dare Arts Gallery. A free public opening reception will be held during First Friday on Friday, Sept. 4 at 6 p.m., offering visitors a chance to see the freshly created artwork and meet participating artists.

Location: Dare Arts, 300 Queen Elizabeth Ave., Manteo
Event dates: Sept. 2–4
Public opening reception: Friday, Sept. 4 at 6 p.m.
Exhibit: Sept. 5–25, Tues-Fri (10am - 5pm), Sat (10 am - 4 pm), Sun (10 am - 3 pm)
Opening reception admission: Free

Experience the charm and creativity of Hatteras Island at the Tri Villages Market, a beloved weekly community gathering featuring local artists, makers, bakers, farmers, and small businesses. Browse handmade jewelry, artwork, home décor, fresh baked goods, local treats, and unique coastal treasures while supporting the talented entrepreneurs who call the Outer Banks home.

Held at Camp Hatteras Resort in Rodanthe, the market offers a fun and relaxed atmosphere where residents and visitors can shop local, meet vendors, and enjoy a morning on the island.

When: Wednesdays, May 27 – October 14, 2026
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Where: Camp Hatteras Resort, Rodanthe

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.

Looking for a fun way to spend a Wednesday afternoon? Join the team at the Outer Banks Brewing Station for their weekly Brewery Tour & Beer Tasting, held every Wednesday from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Guests will gather on the brewery's mezzanine for a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process, including a guided video tour, an opportunity to see, smell, and learn about the ingredients used to craft their beers, and a live Q&A session. The experience concludes with a guided tasting featuring four 5-ounce samples of the brewery's handcrafted beers. Tours are designed for guests ages 21 and older and are limited to 20 participants. Tickets are $15 per person and include the tasting. Advance registration is recommended.

For reservations and additional information, see the event website.

Start your morning with movement and fresh coastal air at Dynamic Flow on the Green with OBX Fit. This fun and engaging calisthenics-based workout combines mobility, strength, and flexibility exercises designed for all fitness levels—from beginners to seasoned athletes. The natural, practical, and playful class focuses on simple movements that help improve balance, mobility, and overall wellness. Participants are welcome to join in person on the Town Green or online. Thanks to the generous support of Duck’s Cottage Coffee & Books, all classes will also be available on the Town of Duck Facebook page for 30 days after each session. In the event of lightning, the class will be offered via livestream only.

Cost: Free
What to Bring: Water, comfortable workout attire, and a yoga mat or towel if desired.

Step into an immersive outdoor art experience at Dare Arts' Courtyard this summer with Weather the Storm, a captivating mixed-media installation by artist Lara E. Parks. Blending light, shadow, sound, movement, and fabric, the installation transforms with changing weather and natural light, inviting visitors to return throughout the season to experience it in new ways.

Celebrate the opening during First Friday on Friday, July 3, from 6:00–8:00 p.m., where you can meet the artist and enjoy live music by The Blue Crab Boys in the Courtyard. The installation will remain on display through the fall, offering a unique outdoor art experience in the heart of downtown Manteo. Be sure to walk through and enjoy the art!

From Sept. 2–4, Artists will take to the outdoors across the Outer Banks during Dare Arts’ Fresh — A Plein Air Event, celebrating the tradition of painting en plein air — or “in the open air.” Participating artists will create works inspired by Outer Banks landscapes, waterways, and coastal scenery.

The finished pieces will be featured in a September exhibit at the Dare Arts Gallery. A free public opening reception will be held during First Friday on Friday, Sept. 4 at 6 p.m., offering visitors a chance to see the freshly created artwork and meet participating artists.

Location: Dare Arts, 300 Queen Elizabeth Ave., Manteo
Event dates: Sept. 2–4
Public opening reception: Friday, Sept. 4 at 6 p.m.
Exhibit: Sept. 5–25, Tues-Fri (10am - 5pm), Sat (10 am - 4 pm), Sun (10 am - 3 pm)
Opening reception admission: Free

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.

Coyotes have become part of the Outer Banks landscape, and this free community workshop offers a chance to learn more about the animals that now share our barrier islands. Wildlife biologists from the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission and National Park Service will discuss coyote behavior, current research, and management efforts on Cape Hatteras National Seashore, along with practical ways residents and visitors can help prevent conflicts. A Q&A with the wildlife experts will follow. See the event website for additional information

Join Dare County EMS, the Kill Devil Hills Fire Department and local first responders for the annual March to Remember September 11th on Friday, September 11. Registration begins at 7:00 a.m. at Dare County EMS Station 1/Kill Devil Hills Fire Department Station 14, 1628 N. Croatan Highway in Kill Devil Hills, and the march begins promptly at 8:46 a.m., the time American Airlines Flight 11 struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center.

Participants will walk approximately two miles to the Wright Brothers National Memorial, pause to honor those who lost their lives and the first responders and citizens who showed extraordinary courage on September 11, 2001, and then return to the station. The full round trip is about four miles and takes approximately 90 minutes. Attendees are encouraged to wear something meaningful in remembrance, dress comfortably, bring water and make sure they are prepared for the walk. Light refreshments will be available.

The event is open to the public, and community members of all ages are invited to take part in this annual Outer Banks tradition of remembrance. Parking is encouraged at Meekins Park or the Dare Centre, with participants walking to the starting point.

Step into an immersive outdoor art experience at Dare Arts' Courtyard this summer with Weather the Storm, a captivating mixed-media installation by artist Lara E. Parks. Blending light, shadow, sound, movement, and fabric, the installation transforms with changing weather and natural light, inviting visitors to return throughout the season to experience it in new ways.

Celebrate the opening during First Friday on Friday, July 3, from 6:00–8:00 p.m., where you can meet the artist and enjoy live music by The Blue Crab Boys in the Courtyard. The installation will remain on display through the fall, offering a unique outdoor art experience in the heart of downtown Manteo. Be sure to walk through and enjoy the art!

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. 

From Sept. 2–4, Artists will take to the outdoors across the Outer Banks during Dare Arts’ Fresh — A Plein Air Event, celebrating the tradition of painting en plein air — or “in the open air.” Participating artists will create works inspired by Outer Banks landscapes, waterways, and coastal scenery.

The finished pieces will be featured in a September exhibit at the Dare Arts Gallery. A free public opening reception will be held during First Friday on Friday, Sept. 4 at 6 p.m., offering visitors a chance to see the freshly created artwork and meet participating artists.

Location: Dare Arts, 300 Queen Elizabeth Ave., Manteo
Event dates: Sept. 2–4
Public opening reception: Friday, Sept. 4 at 6 p.m.
Exhibit: Sept. 5–25, Tues-Fri (10am - 5pm), Sat (10 am - 4 pm), Sun (10 am - 3 pm)
Opening reception admission: Free

The skies over Jockey’s Ridge State Park in Nags Head will fill with color during the Outer Banks Kite Festival, happening Friday and Saturday, September 11–12, from 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. The free, family-friendly festival brings some of the nation’s top stunt kite pilots to the Outer Banks for two days of impressive aerial displays, synchronized kite performances set to music, and hands-on fun. Visitors can watch massive display kites — including a 100-foot octopus, 80-foot panda and 50-foot fish — soaring above the dunes and take part in free stunt and power kite lessons led by experienced fliers. On Saturday, little ones can join the annual Speedy Sprout Sprint at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., with prizes for the top three participants. The event is held at Jockey’s Ridge State Park, 300 W. Carolista Drive, Nags Head, and admission is free. Leashed pets are welcome.

Athletes take on the Croatan Sound and roads of Roanoke Island during the annual Outer Banks Triathlon. Friday includes packet pickup and race preparation at Fort Raleigh, with racing beginning Saturday morning at the Old Swimming Hole. The Olympic race starts at 7 a.m., followed by the Sprint at 7:10 a.m. Spectators are welcome to come out and cheer on athletes as they swim, bike, and run their way across Roanoke Island. Spectator shuttles operate between the race area and Fort Raleigh Saturday morning. Strollers and pets are not allowed. See the event website for additional information and the full schedule.

Discover the mysterious side of Ocracoke Island on an evening walking tour filled with local legends, fascinating history, and ghostly tales. Choose between the Down Point Tour, featuring stories near the Ocracoke Lighthouse, or the 'Round Creek Tour, exploring the historic Howard Street area. Each tour is led by knowledgeable local guides who bring the island's rich past—and its lingering spirits—to life.

Tours are offered most Tuesdays and Fridays from May 19 through September 29, beginning promptly at 7:30 p.m. and lasting approximately 90 minutes. Advance online reservations are required, and space is limited.

The Town of Nags Head Calendar shows that the movie is playing at Dowdy Park on Friday, September 11, 2026, is National Treasure.
October 9 & 23 (Movies TBA)

Event Details

Time: Starts at 8:00 PM (approximately 30 minutes after sunset at 7:27 PM).

Location: Dowdy Park, 3005 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959.

Cost: Free.

Athletes take on the Croatan Sound and roads of Roanoke Island during the annual Outer Banks Triathlon. Friday includes packet pickup and race preparation at Fort Raleigh, with racing beginning Saturday morning at the Old Swimming Hole. The Olympic race starts at 7 a.m., followed by the Sprint at 7:10 a.m. Spectators are welcome to come out and cheer on athletes as they swim, bike, and run their way across Roanoke Island. Spectator shuttles operate between the race area and Fort Raleigh Saturday morning. Strollers and pets are not allowed. See the event website for additional information and the full schedule.

Experience the freshest flavors of Northeastern North Carolina at Secotan Market, a producer-only farmers market where everything is grown, raised, crafted, or created by local vendors. Held in Wanchese, this community-focused market brings together farmers, bakers, artisans, and makers offering an impressive selection of seasonal produce, pasture-raised meats and eggs, honey, flowers, herbs, teas, mushrooms, […]

Step into an immersive outdoor art experience at Dare Arts' Courtyard this summer with Weather the Storm, a captivating mixed-media installation by artist Lara E. Parks. Blending light, shadow, sound, movement, and fabric, the installation transforms with changing weather and natural light, inviting visitors to return throughout the season to experience it in new ways.

Celebrate the opening during First Friday on Friday, July 3, from 6:00–8:00 p.m., where you can meet the artist and enjoy live music by The Blue Crab Boys in the Courtyard. The installation will remain on display through the fall, offering a unique outdoor art experience in the heart of downtown Manteo. Be sure to walk through and enjoy the art!

From Sept. 2–4, Artists will take to the outdoors across the Outer Banks during Dare Arts’ Fresh — A Plein Air Event, celebrating the tradition of painting en plein air — or “in the open air.” Participating artists will create works inspired by Outer Banks landscapes, waterways, and coastal scenery.

The finished pieces will be featured in a September exhibit at the Dare Arts Gallery. A free public opening reception will be held during First Friday on Friday, Sept. 4 at 6 p.m., offering visitors a chance to see the freshly created artwork and meet participating artists.

Location: Dare Arts, 300 Queen Elizabeth Ave., Manteo
Event dates: Sept. 2–4
Public opening reception: Friday, Sept. 4 at 6 p.m.
Exhibit: Sept. 5–25, Tues-Fri (10am - 5pm), Sat (10 am - 4 pm), Sun (10 am - 3 pm)
Opening reception admission: Free

Spend a Saturday morning exploring the Downtown Market in Manteo, a lively open-air market in the heart of Manteo's charming waterfront district. Browse a variety of local vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, handmade crafts, artwork, jewelry, and other unique treasures while enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of one of the Outer Banks' most picturesque towns. […]

The skies over Jockey’s Ridge State Park in Nags Head will fill with color during the Outer Banks Kite Festival, happening Friday and Saturday, September 11–12, from 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. The free, family-friendly festival brings some of the nation’s top stunt kite pilots to the Outer Banks for two days of impressive aerial displays, synchronized kite performances set to music, and hands-on fun. Visitors can watch massive display kites — including a 100-foot octopus, 80-foot panda and 50-foot fish — soaring above the dunes and take part in free stunt and power kite lessons led by experienced fliers. On Saturday, little ones can join the annual Speedy Sprout Sprint at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., with prizes for the top three participants. The event is held at Jockey’s Ridge State Park, 300 W. Carolista Drive, Nags Head, and admission is free. Leashed pets are welcome.

Celebrate community, inclusion, and the Outer Banks at the 15th Annual OBX Pride Festival on Saturday, September 12, from 12:00–6:00 p.m. at Roanoke Island Festival Park, 1 Festival Park in Manteo. The festival is free, family-friendly, and open to the public, with an afternoon of live music, drag performances, food vendors, arts and crafts, souvenir […]

Step into an immersive outdoor art experience at Dare Arts' Courtyard this summer with Weather the Storm, a captivating mixed-media installation by artist Lara E. Parks. Blending light, shadow, sound, movement, and fabric, the installation transforms with changing weather and natural light, inviting visitors to return throughout the season to experience it in new ways.

Celebrate the opening during First Friday on Friday, July 3, from 6:00–8:00 p.m., where you can meet the artist and enjoy live music by The Blue Crab Boys in the Courtyard. The installation will remain on display through the fall, offering a unique outdoor art experience in the heart of downtown Manteo. Be sure to walk through and enjoy the art!

From Sept. 2–4, Artists will take to the outdoors across the Outer Banks during Dare Arts’ Fresh — A Plein Air Event, celebrating the tradition of painting en plein air — or “in the open air.” Participating artists will create works inspired by Outer Banks landscapes, waterways, and coastal scenery.

The finished pieces will be featured in a September exhibit at the Dare Arts Gallery. A free public opening reception will be held during First Friday on Friday, Sept. 4 at 6 p.m., offering visitors a chance to see the freshly created artwork and meet participating artists.

Location: Dare Arts, 300 Queen Elizabeth Ave., Manteo
Event dates: Sept. 2–4
Public opening reception: Friday, Sept. 4 at 6 p.m.
Exhibit: Sept. 5–25, Tues-Fri (10am - 5pm), Sat (10 am - 4 pm), Sun (10 am - 3 pm)
Opening reception admission: Free

Help keep your pets healthy and protected at the Coastal Humane Society Vaccination Clinic on Sunday, September 13, from 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. in front of Good Dog Retreat in Manteo. Dr. Burkart of Roanoke Island Animal Hospital will serve as the clinic veterinarian. No appointments are needed; the clinic is first come, first served, and families should be prepared for a possible wait.

The dog vaccination package includes Rabies, Distemper/Parvo and Bordetella for $36, with heartworm testing available for $20. The cat package includes Rabies and FVRCP for $23. Vaccines may also be purchased individually. Payment is accepted by cash, check or Venmo. Dogs must be on leashes and cats must arrive in carriers.