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 the magic of summer evenings in Duck as Duck Unplugged returns to the Duck Amphitheater. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Currituck Sound, this free concert series features intimate acoustic performances as the sun sets and the sound comes alive with music.

2026 Upcoming Performers:
• August 31 – Adam Nixon
• September 14 – Graham Outten
• September 21 – Monte Hooker
• September 28 – Natalie Wolfe
• October 7 – Devin Frazier with Laura Martier

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.

Dates: Thursday, September 17 – Saturday, September 19, 2026
Main Event: Friday & Saturday, September 18–19
Location: The Soundside Event Site, 6800 S. Croatan Highway, Nags Head, NC; additional activities take place throughout the Outer Banks.

Description:
The 6th Annual OBX Jeep Mutiny brings Jeep enthusiasts together for a weekend of coastal adventure, competitions, live entertainment and community fun. The event includes beach crawls, an Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge guided trail ride, Vendor Village, Blackbeard’s Run, off-road demonstrations, Show & Shine and sound competitions, live music, raffles and more.

The weekend begins Thursday evening with a pirate-themed kickoff party and costume contest at Jolly Roger Restaurant & Bar in Kill Devil Hills. The main event site at The Soundside opens at 10:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday. Saturday concludes with the Sunset Lighthouse-to-Lighthouse Toy Run & Ride beginning at Bodie Island Lighthouse.

Event Schedule:
Thursday, Sept. 17: Kickoff Party, 5:30–8:30 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 18: Main event site, 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.; after-party 7:00–10:00 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 19: Main event site, 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.; Lighthouse-to-Lighthouse Toy Run begins at 5:00 p.m.

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

Dates: Thursday, September 17 – Saturday, September 19, 2026
Main Event: Friday & Saturday, September 18–19
Location: The Soundside Event Site, 6800 S. Croatan Highway, Nags Head, NC; additional activities take place throughout the Outer Banks.

Description:
The 6th Annual OBX Jeep Mutiny brings Jeep enthusiasts together for a weekend of coastal adventure, competitions, live entertainment and community fun. The event includes beach crawls, an Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge guided trail ride, Vendor Village, Blackbeard’s Run, off-road demonstrations, Show & Shine and sound competitions, live music, raffles and more.

The weekend begins Thursday evening with a pirate-themed kickoff party and costume contest at Jolly Roger Restaurant & Bar in Kill Devil Hills. The main event site at The Soundside opens at 10:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday. Saturday concludes with the Sunset Lighthouse-to-Lighthouse Toy Run & Ride beginning at Bodie Island Lighthouse.

Event Schedule:
Thursday, Sept. 17: Kickoff Party, 5:30–8:30 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 18: Main event site, 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.; after-party 7:00–10:00 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 19: Main event site, 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.; Lighthouse-to-Lighthouse Toy Run begins at 5:00 p.m.

Date: Friday, September 18, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Location: Various galleries and creative spaces from Rodanthe to Hatteras Village

Description:
Celebrate Hatteras Island’s creative community during the 14th Annual Rock The Cape Art Gallery Tour. The free, family-friendly event is a self-guided tour of 11 creative spaces stretching from Rodanthe to Hatteras Village.

Participating galleries and businesses will feature combinations of local art, visiting artists, live demonstrations, make-and-take activities, music, sales, raffles, refreshments and opportunities to meet the artists. Stops include Island Art House, Pea Island Art Gallery, Studio 12, Swell Art, Artistic Treasures, Buxton Village Books, Empty Nest Studio & Gallery, Red Drum Pottery, Blue Lagoon, Family Jewels and Blue Pelican Gallery. For a full list of all participating galleries click here: Rock the Cape Art Galleries .

Good to Know:
The event is free, and there is no single starting point or required route—visitors can explore participating locations at their own pace.

Dates: Friday & Saturday, September 18–19, 2026
Location: Hatteras Village Waterfront and other Hatteras Village locations

Description:
Day at the Docks celebrates the working watermen, maritime heritage and community spirit of Hatteras Island. The festival began following Hurricane Isabel in 2003 as a celebration of the “Spirit of Hatteras” and continues with seafood, working boats, demonstrations, competitions, live entertainment, educational exhibits, vendors and children’s activities.

Friday's events include a Hurricane Preparedness Forum and the ticketed Seafood Under the Stars dinner. Saturday brings the main waterfront festival with boat tours, local seafood, the Seafood Throw Down cooking competition, live music, children’s activities, vendors, the Fishy 5K and Dock Dash, youth fishing tournament, Hatteras Island Cancer Foundation Chowder Cook-Off and the traditional Blessing of the Fleet.

Times:
Friday, Sept. 18: Hurricane Preparedness Forum begins at 1:00 p.m.; Seafood Under the Stars dinner at 6:30 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 19: Fishy 5K activities begin in the morning 7:30 a.m. Main waterfront festival approximately 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., with additional activities surrounding the festival.

Good to Know:
The main waterfront festival is community-oriented and family-friendly and free to attend.

Seafood Under the Stars requires advance registration and is $60 without wine pairing or $80 with wine pairing. Individual festival activities may have separate fees or registration requirements.

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.

Dates: September 18–27, 2026
Location: Theatre of Dare, 3848 N. Croatan Highway, Kitty Hawk, NC

Description:
Theatre of Dare opens its 36th season with Happy Birthday, Wanda June, Kurt Vonnegut Jr.’s darkly comedic and unconventional satire exploring war, heroism, masculinity and what happens when the past unexpectedly returns.

The story centers on famed hunter and adventurer Harold Ryan, who returns home after being presumed dead for eight years and expects to resume his former life—only to discover that his wife, family and the world around him have changed. Vonnegut’s trademark absurdity and dark humor mix with scenes from the afterlife and a sharp look at the conflict between violence and peace. The production is directed by Kim Plyler.

Performance Times:
Sept. 18, 19, 24, 25 & 26 – 7:30 p.m.
Sept. 19 – Special 1:00 p.m. matinee
Sept. 20 & 27 – 2:00 p.m. matinees

Good to Know:
Individual performance tickets are on sale through Theatre of Dare. Because of the play’s dark satire and adult themes, parents may want to review the production information when considering it for younger children.

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.

Dates: Friday & Saturday, September 18–19, 2026
Location: Hatteras Village Waterfront and other Hatteras Village locations

Description:
Day at the Docks celebrates the working watermen, maritime heritage and community spirit of Hatteras Island. The festival began following Hurricane Isabel in 2003 as a celebration of the “Spirit of Hatteras” and continues with seafood, working boats, demonstrations, competitions, live entertainment, educational exhibits, vendors and children’s activities.

Friday's events include a Hurricane Preparedness Forum and the ticketed Seafood Under the Stars dinner. Saturday brings the main waterfront festival with boat tours, local seafood, the Seafood Throw Down cooking competition, live music, children’s activities, vendors, the Fishy 5K and Dock Dash, youth fishing tournament, Hatteras Island Cancer Foundation Chowder Cook-Off and the traditional Blessing of the Fleet.

Times:
Friday, Sept. 18: Hurricane Preparedness Forum begins at 1:00 p.m.; Seafood Under the Stars dinner at 6:30 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 19: Fishy 5K activities begin in the morning 7:30 a.m. Main waterfront festival approximately 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., with additional activities surrounding the festival.

Good to Know:
The main waterfront festival is community-oriented and family-friendly and free to attend.

Seafood Under the Stars requires advance registration and is $60 without wine pairing or $80 with wine pairing. Individual festival activities may have separate fees or registration requirements.

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. […]

Dates: Thursday, September 17 – Saturday, September 19, 2026
Main Event: Friday & Saturday, September 18–19
Location: The Soundside Event Site, 6800 S. Croatan Highway, Nags Head, NC; additional activities take place throughout the Outer Banks.

Description:
The 6th Annual OBX Jeep Mutiny brings Jeep enthusiasts together for a weekend of coastal adventure, competitions, live entertainment and community fun. The event includes beach crawls, an Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge guided trail ride, Vendor Village, Blackbeard’s Run, off-road demonstrations, Show & Shine and sound competitions, live music, raffles and more.

The weekend begins Thursday evening with a pirate-themed kickoff party and costume contest at Jolly Roger Restaurant & Bar in Kill Devil Hills. The main event site at The Soundside opens at 10:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday. Saturday concludes with the Sunset Lighthouse-to-Lighthouse Toy Run & Ride beginning at Bodie Island Lighthouse.

Event Schedule:
Thursday, Sept. 17: Kickoff Party, 5:30–8:30 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 18: Main event site, 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.; after-party 7:00–10:00 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 19: Main event site, 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.; Lighthouse-to-Lighthouse Toy Run begins at 5:00 p.m.

Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026
Time: 12:00–4:00 p.m.
Location: The Elizabethan Gardens, 1411 National Park Drive, Manteo, NC

Description:
The Elizabethan Gardens celebrates its 75th anniversary with the second annual Autumn Ale Faire, a family-friendly fall festival set throughout the Gardens’ 10-acre waterfront property. This year’s “Restoration” theme celebrates the Gardens’ history while raising funds for restoration of the Gatehouse and conservation of the historic statuary in the Sunken Garden.

The afternoon includes regional craft beer, wine, cider and non-alcoholic beverages, food catered by Red Sky, live music by Face 2 Face, garden access and a Kids Zone with crafts, lawn games, a bounce house and slide.

Admission:
Adults ages 13+: $49
Youth ages 6–12: $19
Children 5 and under: Free
Well-behaved dogs: $6

Good to Know:
Food is included with admission. Alcoholic beverages are sold separately and valid photo ID is required to purchase alcohol. The event is rain or shine. Leashed, well-behaved dogs are welcome with a dog admission ticket. Guests may bring blankets and lawn chairs. Outside alcohol and coolers are not permitted.

Dates: Saturday & Sunday, September 19–20, 2026
Location: Outer Banks Brewing Station, 600 S. Croatan Highway, Kill Devil Hills, NC

Description:
Outer Banks Brewing Station puts a coastal spin on Oktoberfest with two days of German-inspired food, beer, live music and festival activities.

Saturday – Oktoberfest by the Sea
September 19, 12:00–4:00 p.m.
Saturday features $5 house drafts, an oyster roast, an Oktoberfest-inspired seafood menu, local vendors at the Brew and Arts Market and live music from We Jam Band from 1:00–4:00 p.m. No ticket is required for Saturday’s event.

Sunday – Oktoberfest
September 20, 12:00–3:00 p.m.
Sunday’s ticketed celebration includes a traditional German buffet, live oompah music and Oktoberfest games. The buffet and beer portion runs from noon–1:30 p.m., followed by a stein-holding competition, keg relay, cornhole tournament and best lederhosen contest from 1:30–3:00 p.m.

Admission:
Saturday: Free admission; food and drinks available for purchase.
Sunday: $25 general admission, plus applicable gratuity/service fee.

Good to Know:
Bring a valid ID if purchasing alcoholic beverages. House drafts are $5 throughout the weekend.

Dates: September 18–27, 2026
Location: Theatre of Dare, 3848 N. Croatan Highway, Kitty Hawk, NC

Description:
Theatre of Dare opens its 36th season with Happy Birthday, Wanda June, Kurt Vonnegut Jr.’s darkly comedic and unconventional satire exploring war, heroism, masculinity and what happens when the past unexpectedly returns.

The story centers on famed hunter and adventurer Harold Ryan, who returns home after being presumed dead for eight years and expects to resume his former life—only to discover that his wife, family and the world around him have changed. Vonnegut’s trademark absurdity and dark humor mix with scenes from the afterlife and a sharp look at the conflict between violence and peace. The production is directed by Kim Plyler.

Performance Times:
Sept. 18, 19, 24, 25 & 26 – 7:30 p.m.
Sept. 19 – Special 1:00 p.m. matinee
Sept. 20 & 27 – 2:00 p.m. matinees

Good to Know:
Individual performance tickets are on sale through Theatre of Dare. Because of the play’s dark satire and adult themes, parents may want to review the production information when considering it for younger children.

Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026
Cook-off Event Time: 3:30–5:30 p.m.
Tasting: 4:00–5:30 p.m. (Cost: $10)
Location: Ocracoke Community Center, Ocracoke, NC

Description:
Taste your way through one of Ocracoke’s favorite island traditions at the Ocracoke Community Pool Association’s 3rd Annual Clam Chowder Cook-Off. Approximately a dozen chowders are expected, with entries competing in two categories: traditional Ocracoke-style chowder and innovative chowder.

Traditional Ocracoke chowder is made with clams, potatoes, onions and salt meat or bacon, while entries in the innovative category can take a more creative approach as long as clams remain a prominent ingredient. Guests sample the chowders and cast People’s Choice ballots to select the winners.

Admission: $10 per person for chowder tasting.

Good to Know:
The event also includes a raffle and Ocracoke Community Pool Association T-shirts for sale. Proceeds support the organization’s efforts to establish a community swimming pool on Ocracoke.

Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026
Time: 5:00 p.m. (Tickets required.)
Location: Jockey’s Ridge State Park Visitor Center, 300 W. Carolista Drive, Nags Head, NC

Description:
Celebrate the history and preservation of Jockey’s Ridge during a special Dune Days evening concert featuring Outer Banks musician Mojo Collins and special guests.

Dune Days commemorates the courage and determination of Carolista Baum, whose efforts helped save Jockey’s Ridge from development and preserve the landmark for future generations. A portion of ticket proceeds supports Friends of Jockey’s Ridge and its work to protect and promote the state park.

Admission: $40 per person. Tickets required to attend.

Good to Know:
Tickets are required and seating is limited, so advance ticket purchase is recommended. Purchase tickets on the event website.

Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026
Time: 6:30–8:30 p.m.
Location: Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum, 59200 Museum Drive, Hatteras, NC

Description:
Keep the Day at the Docks celebration going into the evening with Graveyard After Hours at the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum. Guests can enjoy the museum after hours along with live music by Jackie Burns, beer, wine and hors d’oeuvres.

Admission: $5 suggested donation.

Good to Know:
Proceeds benefit the Friends of the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum, the nonprofit organization that supports the museum and its programs.

Dates: September 18–27, 2026
Location: Theatre of Dare, 3848 N. Croatan Highway, Kitty Hawk, NC

Description:
Theatre of Dare opens its 36th season with Happy Birthday, Wanda June, Kurt Vonnegut Jr.’s darkly comedic and unconventional satire exploring war, heroism, masculinity and what happens when the past unexpectedly returns.

The story centers on famed hunter and adventurer Harold Ryan, who returns home after being presumed dead for eight years and expects to resume his former life—only to discover that his wife, family and the world around him have changed. Vonnegut’s trademark absurdity and dark humor mix with scenes from the afterlife and a sharp look at the conflict between violence and peace. The production is directed by Kim Plyler.

Performance Times:
Sept. 18, 19, 24, 25 & 26 – 7:30 p.m.
Sept. 19 – Special 1:00 p.m. matinee
Sept. 20 & 27 – 2:00 p.m. matinees

Good to Know:
Individual performance tickets are on sale through Theatre of Dare. Because of the play’s dark satire and adult themes, parents may want to review the production information when considering it for younger children.

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

Dates: Sunday, September 20–Saturday, September 26, 2026
Time: Competition is scheduled to begin around 8:00 a.m. daily; exact heats and daily schedules depend on surf and weather conditions.
Location: Jennette’s Pier, 7223 S. Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC

Description:
Some of the East Coast’s top amateur surfers return to Nags Head for the Eastern Surfing Association’s Easterns Surfing Championship. The week-long competition at Jennette’s Pier is the season finale for the Eastern Surfing Association and brings qualifying surfers together to compete in youth and adult shortboard and longboard divisions.

Good to Know:
Spectating is free and open to the public. The competition schedule is highly dependent on surf and weather conditions. The ESA’s tentative schedule places many adult divisions early in the week and youth divisions throughout the Monday–Friday period, but divisions may be moved to different days as conditions require.

Dates: Saturday & Sunday, September 19–20, 2026
Location: Outer Banks Brewing Station, 600 S. Croatan Highway, Kill Devil Hills, NC

Description:
Outer Banks Brewing Station puts a coastal spin on Oktoberfest with two days of German-inspired food, beer, live music and festival activities.

Saturday – Oktoberfest by the Sea
September 19, 12:00–4:00 p.m.
Saturday features $5 house drafts, an oyster roast, an Oktoberfest-inspired seafood menu, local vendors at the Brew and Arts Market and live music from We Jam Band from 1:00–4:00 p.m. No ticket is required for Saturday’s event.

Sunday – Oktoberfest
September 20, 12:00–3:00 p.m.
Sunday’s ticketed celebration includes a traditional German buffet, live oompah music and Oktoberfest games. The buffet and beer portion runs from noon–1:30 p.m., followed by a stein-holding competition, keg relay, cornhole tournament and best lederhosen contest from 1:30–3:00 p.m.

Admission:
Saturday: Free admission; food and drinks available for purchase.
Sunday: $25 general admission, plus applicable gratuity/service fee.

Good to Know:
Bring a valid ID if purchasing alcoholic beverages. House drafts are $5 throughout the weekend.

Dates: September 18–27, 2026
Location: Theatre of Dare, 3848 N. Croatan Highway, Kitty Hawk, NC

Description:
Theatre of Dare opens its 36th season with Happy Birthday, Wanda June, Kurt Vonnegut Jr.’s darkly comedic and unconventional satire exploring war, heroism, masculinity and what happens when the past unexpectedly returns.

The story centers on famed hunter and adventurer Harold Ryan, who returns home after being presumed dead for eight years and expects to resume his former life—only to discover that his wife, family and the world around him have changed. Vonnegut’s trademark absurdity and dark humor mix with scenes from the afterlife and a sharp look at the conflict between violence and peace. The production is directed by Kim Plyler.

Performance Times:
Sept. 18, 19, 24, 25 & 26 – 7:30 p.m.
Sept. 19 – Special 1:00 p.m. matinee
Sept. 20 & 27 – 2:00 p.m. matinees

Good to Know:
Individual performance tickets are on sale through Theatre of Dare. Because of the play’s dark satire and adult themes, parents may want to review the production information when considering it for younger children.

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

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.