Discover the plants, animals, and ecosystems that make the Outer Banks such a unique coastal environment during Nature on the Boardwalk, a free guided nature program presented by the Town of Duck.

Led by a knowledgeable naturalist, this interactive morning walk takes participants along the Duck Boardwalk to explore local wildlife, native vegetation, marsh habitats, and the natural history of the Currituck Sound. Each program offers opportunities to observe birds, learn about coastal ecology, and gain a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty that surrounds Duck.

Perfect for nature enthusiasts, families, visitors, and residents alike, this educational program provides a fun and engaging way to connect with the environment while enjoying a scenic stroll along the waterfront.

2026 Dates & Times
Mondays, June 1 – August 24, 2026
8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

Event Series: Rotating Art Show, “Between Tides,” by Kate Leal is the next 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 May 1 – July 29, 2026.

As part of the nationwide celebration of America's 250th anniversary, the Town of Duck presents Racing the Night, a powerful new mini-musical that tells the remarkable true story of Susanna Bolling, a 16-year-old girl whose bravery helped shape the course of the American Revolution.

Set in Revolutionary-era Virginia, Racing the Night follows Susanna's daring midnight ride to deliver critical intelligence to the Continental Army while evading British forces. Featuring a dynamic musical score, compelling storytelling, and an all-teen cast, this inspiring production shines a light on one of the Revolutionary War's lesser-known heroes and celebrates the impact of youthful courage, determination, and patriotism. Please note: Dates, times, performers, and program details are subject to change. Visit the Town of Duck event calendar for the latest event information.

Event Series: Rotating Art Show, “Between Tides,” by Kate Leal is the next 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 May 1 – July 29, 2026.

Escape the busy beaches and explore the quiet marshes, creeks, and islands of Pamlico Sound on this guided canoe tour through Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge. This peaceful paddle offers a unique opportunity to experience the refuge's natural beauty and wildlife from the water. When: Tuesdays, June 3 – August 7, 2026 Time: 9:00 a.m. […]

Tuesdays | June 23 – August 4, 2026 | 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.Aviation Park, Kill Devil Hills Shop local and discover the best of the Outer Banks at the FIrst Flight Farmers Market, a popular summer tradition featuring more than 60 local vendors, food trucks, and occasional live music. Held weekly at Aviation Park, […]

Family Fun Times takes place Tuesdays from June 16 through August 11 and Fridays from June 5 through August 14, from 9:00–10:30 a.m. The program is designed to provide engaging, educational fun while making the most of a summer morning on the Outer Banks.

Dowdy Park
3005 S. Croatan Highway, Nags Head

Free Admission

Dive into the rich maritime history and culture of the Outer Banks at the Salty Dawgs Lecture Series at the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum in Hatteras. Held every Tuesday at 11:00 a.m. from May 19 through August 18, this free summer series features historians, authors, park rangers, musicians, and researchers sharing fascinating stories about shipwrecks, lifesaving history, local legends, music, and coastal heritage. No reservations are required.

Turtle Talk at Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge Discover the fascinating world of turtles during this free educational program at Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge. Learn the differences between sea turtles and land turtles, explore the challenges facing endangered sea turtle populations, and find out how conservation efforts are helping protect these gentle giants. Perfect […]

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.

Event Series: Rotating Art Show, “Between Tides,” by Kate Leal is the next 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 May 1 – July 29, 2026.

Soundside Summer Market Returns to Nags Head for a Fourth Season

Spend your Wednesday mornings shopping local at the Soundside Summer Market Series, returning for its fourth season at the Soundside Event Site in Nags Head. Held weekly from June 17 through August 26, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., the market brings together talented local artists, makers, crafters, and vendors from across the Outer Banks.

Visitors can browse unique handmade goods, enjoy live music, sample local food, and soak up beautiful soundside views while supporting small businesses. Whether you're searching for one-of-a-kind gifts, fresh local products, or simply a fun way to spend a summer morning, the Soundside Summer Market offers something for everyone.

When: Wednesdays, June 17 – August 26, 2026
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Where: Soundside Event Site, Nags Head

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

Take a trip around the Alligator River Refuge and learn about the wild lands and wildlife. Bring your binoculars and camera! Drinking water and insect repellent are also recommended. The program will proceed, except in the event of lightning, heavy wind, rain, or impassable road conditions. Dress for the weather! Meet at Creef Cut Wildlife Trail parking lot, Hwy 64 and Milltail Road, approximately 6 miles west of Manns Harbor. Call 252-216-9464 for reservations.

Alligator River Refuge Tram Tour $10 per adult. Children 12 and under are free with one or more paying adults. Reservations required. Tram seating is limited.

Market Series returns to the Soundside Event Site in Nags Head, bringing together some of the most talented local artists, makers, creators, food vendors, and small businesses the OBX has to offer. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Roanoke Sound, the market is the perfect place to spend a summer morning shopping, strolling, and […]

Prepare to Be Amazed at the OBXTreme Magic Show in Duck. Get ready for a morning of mind-bending illusions, laughter, and family-friendly entertainment as world-renowned illusionist Clive Allen returns to Duck for another season of the popular OBXTreme Magic Show.

A longtime favorite among Outer Banks families and visitors, Clive Allen combines incredible magic, audience participation, and comedy to create an unforgettable experience for all ages. Whether you're seeing the show for the first time or returning for another year of amazement, you'll be entertained by a fast-paced performance filled with surprises and interactive fun.

The series is presented with support from Kellogg Supply and The Cottage Shop and takes place at the Duck Amphitheater in the heart of Duck Town Park. See the event website for specific details.

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.

Discover why Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge is home to one of the largest populations of black bears in the eastern United States during this free educational program. Learn about black bear behavior, habitat, and conservation during a 30-minute presentation, then explore the refuge on your own to search for bears and other wildlife. Maps […]

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.

Join Amy for a relaxing, all-levels yoga class on the beach, sponsored by Outer Banks Health. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced yogi, everyone is welcome.

📅 Thursdays
June 4 – August 27, 2026

🕢 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.

📍 North Beach at Jennette's Pier
7223 S. Virginia Dare Trail
Nags Head, NC

💲 FREE

✔ Open to all skill levels
✔ No RSVP required
✔ Weather permitting

Bring:
• Yoga mat or beach towel
• Water bottle
• Positive vibes

📞 Questions? Call 252-449-4529

The Dowdy Park Summer Market runs from mid-June through mid-August. To maintain a positive experience for vendors and visitors, the market is intentionally capped at approximately 50 vendors per event, with limited date overlap. Market dates and capacity are driven by the local school calendar, as the market has grown to a size that requires the use of the school parking lot for vendor and visitor parking.

The first market day will be Thursday, June 11th, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

Event Series: Rotating Art Show, “Between Tides,” by Kate Leal is the next 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 May 1 – July 29, 2026.

Paddle deep into the heart of Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge on this guided canoe adventure through scenic blackwater canals. Along the way, participants will learn about the area's natural and cultural history while watching for birds, turtles, alligators, and other wildlife. Canoes, paddles, life jackets, and guides are provided. When: Thursdays, June 3 – […]

Shop local and experience the flavors of the Outer Banks at the Dowdy Park Farmers Market in Nags Head. Held every Thursday throughout the summer, this popular community market features fresh local produce, baked goods, handmade crafts, artisan products, and more from a variety of local farmers, makers, and small businesses. Whether you're looking for […]

Why choose between story time and creative play when you can enjoy both? The Town of Duck's Story Time and Chalk the Walk combines engaging children's stories with a colorful outdoor art activity, making it a perfect summer morning for young readers and budding artists.

The event begins on the steps of the Paul F. Keller Meeting Hall, where local partners from Island Bookstore and Duck's Cottage Coffee & Books share entertaining stories for children and families. After story time, participants head over to Duck Town Hall to create colorful sidewalk masterpieces during Chalk the Walk. Sidewalk chalk is provided—just bring your imagination! Be sure to bring water and dress for warm weather. Please note: Dates, times, locations, and program details are subject to change. Check the Town of Duck event calendar for the latest information.

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.

Step back in time and experience one of the Outer Banks' most fascinating living history demonstrations. Each Thursday during the summer, volunteers at the historic Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station recreate the famous Beach Apparatus Drill, showcasing how members of the U.S. Life-Saving Service rescued shipwreck victims long before helicopters, rescue boats, and modern technology. The demonstration […]

Turtle Talk at Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge Discover the fascinating world of turtles during this free educational program at Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge. Learn the differences between sea turtles and land turtles, explore the challenges facing endangered sea turtle populations, and find out how conservation efforts are helping protect these gentle giants. Perfect […]

Celebrate Independence Day island-style during Ocracoke's beloved three-day Fourth of July celebration. From fireworks over Silver Lake Harbor to a hometown parade, sand sculpture contest, square dancing, and a community beach fire under the stars, this annual tradition offers family-friendly fun and small-town charm for visitors and locals alike. Thursday, July 2 Kick off the […]

Join refuge volunteers for a customized wildlife-viewing adventure through Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge. With room for just six participants, this intimate tour offers excellent opportunities to search for black bears, river otters, bald eagles, alligators, turtles, and even the endangered red wolf. Every tour is different, making each experience unique. When: Thursdays, June 3 […]

Concert on the Green Returns to Duck for Summer 2026

Spend your Thursday evenings enjoying live music under the open sky at the Town of Duck's popular Concert on the Green series. Held on the Town Green, these free concerts feature a variety of local and regional musicians performing everything from classic covers and country favorites to original songs and beach music.

Bring lawn chairs, blankets, picnics, and coolers and settle in for an evening of family-friendly entertainment in one of the Outer Banks' most scenic soundside settings. Concerts take place every Thursday evening from June through August.

When: Thursdays, June 11 – August 27, 2026 | 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Where: Duck Town Green, Duck, NC
Cost: Free

Please note: Performers, dates, times, and locations are subject to change without notice. Check the Town of Duck for the latest event information.

4 for the 4th: Four Mile Run & 1776 Family Fun Run

Celebrate America's 250th birthday with a patriotic morning of fitness, community, and fun at the annual 4 for the 4th Four Mile Run and 1776 Family Fun Run in Avon on Friday, July 3.

This special America 250 edition begins with a patriotic opening ceremony featuring local vocalist Leslie Buck performing the National Anthem, God Bless America, and her original rendition of God Bless Hatteras. The Avon Volunteer Fire Department will present the colors, and Dare County officials will help kick off the race festivities.

Participants can challenge themselves with the four-mile run or enjoy the family-friendly 1,776-foot Fun Run, designed for runners and walkers of all ages. Following the races, participants are invited to enjoy complimentary refreshments, including fruit, breakfast sandwiches, and protein bars.

The event also shines a spotlight on local nonprofits, including the Hatteras CERT Team, Hatteras Island Meals, and Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station. This year's race will also collect donations for Mighty Milly, a six-year-old Buxton warrior currently battling B-cell leukemia.

Whether you're running, walking, or cheering from the sidelines, this patriotic community event is a great way to kick off Independence Day weekend while supporting important local causes.

When: Friday, July 3, 2026
Where: Kinnakeet Shores, Avon
Events: Four Mile Run & 1776 Family Fun Run

Register at BarrierIslandGroup.com.

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. 

Celebrate Independence Day island-style during Ocracoke's beloved three-day Fourth of July celebration. From fireworks over Silver Lake Harbor to a hometown parade, sand sculpture contest, square dancing, and a community beach fire under the stars, this annual tradition offers family-friendly fun and small-town charm for visitors and locals alike. Thursday, July 2 Kick off the […]

Kick off your Independence Day weekend with one of the Outer Banks' most unique and challenging races. The annual Killer Dunes 2-Mile Run invites participants to run, walk, or simply conquer the towering sands of Jockey's Ridge, the tallest natural sand dune system on the East Coast. The course may be just two miles long, […]

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!

Event Series: Rotating Art Show, “Between Tides,” by Kate Leal is the next 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 May 1 – July 29, 2026.

Take a trip around the Alligator River Refuge and learn about the wild lands and wildlife. Bring your binoculars and camera! Drinking water and insect repellent are also recommended. The program will proceed, except in the event of lightning, heavy wind, rain, or impassable road conditions. Dress for the weather! Meet at Creef Cut Wildlife Trail parking lot, Hwy 64 and Milltail Road, approximately 6 miles west of Manns Harbor. Call 252-216-9464 for reservations.

Alligator River Refuge Tram Tour $10 per adult. Children 12 and under are free with one or more paying adults. Reservations required. Tram seating is limited.

Family Fun Times takes place Tuesdays from June 16 through August 11 and Fridays from June 5 through August 14, from 9:00–10:30 a.m. The program is designed to provide engaging, educational fun while making the most of a summer morning on the Outer Banks.

Dowdy Park
3005 S. Croatan Highway, Nags Head

Free Admission

Let your child's creativity set sail at Maritime Crafts for Kids at the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum in Hatteras! This free weekly program invites children of all ages to create fun, hands-on crafts inspired by the unique coastal environment and rich maritime heritage of the Outer Banks. Best of all, the museum provides all the supplies—just bring your imagination!

Held on Fridays from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., this family-friendly activity is a great way to enjoy a creative morning while learning about the coast through art and hands-on exploration.

Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum
59200 Museum Drive, Hatteras
Free Admission | All Ages Welcome

Enjoy a full day of interactive activities, hands-on exhibits, and presentations for all ages. Families can participate in "The Ironclad Countdown" and other children's activities led by educator Kyra Burlingame of The Mariners' Museum and Park. At 1:00 p.m., maritime archaeologist Tane Casserly will present "Ironclad Legacy: Celebrating 50 Years of NOAA's Monitor National Marine Sanctuary," highlighting the latest discoveries and ongoing research surrounding one of America's most iconic shipwrecks.

Wednesday, July 1, 2026
11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum
59200 Museum Drive, Hatteras
Free Admission, All Ages Welcome

Enjoy an evening under the string lights during the First Friday Vendor Market at the historic Pioneer Theater Garden in downtown Manteo. Beginning at 5:00 p.m., the open-air market features local artisan and craft vendors, food trucks, a beer and wine bar, and live local music in a relaxed garden setting. Held every First Friday from March through December, it’s a lively way to shop local, grab a bite, and enjoy music in the heart of Manteo. Attendance is free and open to the public.

Friday, March 6, kicks off the 2026 First Friday season in downtown Manteo. We will have Joe Mapp playing live music on the front porch of the Gallery starting at 6:00 pm.

There will also be live music by The Conch Shells at Poor Richard's, The Bar Cats Duo at NouVines, and DJ Night at Lost Colony Brewery.

The First Friday Manteo Stroll, where restaurants and shops in downtown Manteo stay open late with specials, live music, sales, and events at their locations, will also be happening from 6:00pm to 8:00pm. 

Step into a world where art changes with every glance. The Perception Project is a captivating solo exhibition by artist, educator, and design strategist Emily Holmes, featuring interactive mixed-media works that explore the fascinating ways perception shifts through movement, light, texture, layering, and visual illusion. Visitors will discover vibrant paintings, stained glass, collage, optical effects, […]

Discover the heart of rural North Carolina through the lens of ten talented photographers in Southern is Feeling: A Visual Telling of Rural NC at Dare Arts' Courtroom Gallery in Manteo. This compelling photography exhibition explores themes of community, heritage, landscape, and identity, capturing the people and places that define rural life across the state. The exhibit invites visitors to experience North Carolina beyond its destinations, revealing the stories, traditions, and emotional connections woven into its small towns and landscapes.

The exhibition opens with a free public reception on Friday, July 3, from 6:00–8:00 p.m. during Manteo's First Friday celebration, where guests can meet the photographers and explore the collection.

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.

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!

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. […]

Celebrate Independence Day island-style during Ocracoke's beloved three-day Fourth of July celebration. From fireworks over Silver Lake Harbor to a hometown parade, sand sculpture contest, square dancing, and a community beach fire under the stars, this annual tradition offers family-friendly fun and small-town charm for visitors and locals alike. Thursday, July 2 Kick off the […]

Experience art that changes the way you see the world at The Perception Project, a solo exhibition by artist, educator, and design strategist Emily Holmes at Dare Arts' Vault Gallery in downtown Manteo. Exhibit Dates: July 4 – August 1, 2026, T-F 10 am - 5pm, Sat 10am - 4 pm, Sun 11am - 3 pm

Opening Reception: Friday, July 3,  6:00–8:00 PM
Location: Dare Arts – Vault Gallery, Manteo
Admission: Free

Discover the heart of rural North Carolina through the lens of ten talented photographers in Southern is Feeling: A Visual Telling of Rural NC at Dare Arts' Courtroom Gallery in Manteo. This compelling photography exhibition explores themes of community, heritage, landscape, and identity, capturing the people and places that define rural life across the state. The exhibit invites visitors to experience North Carolina beyond its destinations, revealing the stories, traditions, and emotional connections woven into its small towns and landscapes.

The exhibition opens with a free public reception on Friday, July 3, from 6:00–8:00 p.m. during Manteo's First Friday celebration, where guests can meet the photographers and explore the collection. The exhibit remains on display July 4 through August 29, T-F 10 am - 5 pm, Sat 10 am - 4 pm, Sun 11 am - 3 pm.

Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy the festivities from George Washington Creef Park, the downtown waterfront, or Roanoke Island Festival Park for one of the best fireworks shows on the Outer Banks.

Saturday, July 4, 2026
Festivities begin at 6:00 p.m. | Fireworks at approximately 9:30 p.m.
George Washington Creef Park & Downtown Manteo Waterfront
Free Admission

Bring a beach chair or blanket, find a spot on the sand near the Nags Head Fishing Pier, and enjoy an unforgettable evening as colorful fireworks are launched from the pier over the ocean. The display begins at 9:00 p.m. and lasts approximately 25 minutes, creating a spectacular finale to your Fourth of July celebration. A rain date is scheduled for Sunday, July 5.

Saturday, July 4, 2026
Fireworks begin at 9:00 p.m.
Nags Head Fishing Pier, Mile Post 11.5, Nags Head
Free Admission

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!

Experience art that changes the way you see the world at The Perception Project, a solo exhibition by artist, educator, and design strategist Emily Holmes at Dare Arts' Vault Gallery in downtown Manteo. Exhibit Dates: July 4 – August 1, 2026, T-F 10 am - 5pm, Sat 10am - 4 pm, Sun 11am - 3 pm

Opening Reception: Friday, July 3,  6:00–8:00 PM
Location: Dare Arts – Vault Gallery, Manteo
Admission: Free

Discover the heart of rural North Carolina through the lens of ten talented photographers in Southern is Feeling: A Visual Telling of Rural NC at Dare Arts' Courtroom Gallery in Manteo. This compelling photography exhibition explores themes of community, heritage, landscape, and identity, capturing the people and places that define rural life across the state. The exhibit invites visitors to experience North Carolina beyond its destinations, revealing the stories, traditions, and emotional connections woven into its small towns and landscapes.

The exhibition opens with a free public reception on Friday, July 3, from 6:00–8:00 p.m. during Manteo's First Friday celebration, where guests can meet the photographers and explore the collection. The exhibit remains on display July 4 through August 29, T-F 10 am - 5 pm, Sat 10 am - 4 pm, Sun 11 am - 3 pm.

Give back to the beautiful shores of the Outer Banks at the Surfrider Foundation Spring Beach Cleanup on April 19, 2026, from 4:00–5:00 PM in Nags Head. Hosted by Kitty Hawk Kites in partnership with the Surfrider Foundation Outer Banks Chapter, this community event invites locals and visitors alike to help keep OBX beaches and waterways clean.

Volunteers will meet at the Soundside Road public access near Jockey's Ridge State Park to check in and receive gloves and cleanup bags before spreading out along the shoreline to collect litter. Participants are also encouraged to log what they find using the Marine Debris Tracker app, helping support ongoing environmental research and conservation efforts.

This free, family-friendly event welcomes volunteers of all ages (pets included—just keep them leashed). It’s a simple but meaningful way to enjoy the outdoors while helping protect the fragile coastal ecosystems that make the Outer Banks so special.

Additional Dates:

April 19th at 4:00 PM
July 5th at 5:00 PM
September 20th at 4:00 PM