Autumn Adventures on Hatteras Island: 5 Unmissable Fall Festivities

Part of the lovely Outer Banks, Hatteras Island is renowned for its pristine beaches, rolling dunes, maritime forests, and iconic landmarks like the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. The island also has a deep maritime heritage, including shipwrecks and legends of pirates such as Blackbeard. These features make it one of the most popular destinations in North Carolina year-round.

However, if you ask us, we think visiting Hatteras Island during fall is an especially delightful experience. Beyond the mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and excellent fishing conditions, the island hosts several events that will add much fun and memorable experiences to your vacation.

In this blog, we’ve curated a list of the best fall events happening on Hatteras Island for you to make the most of your fall trip to this North Carolina darling.

Before We Dive In: Here’s a Little About Us…

At Village Realty, we offer a curated selection of exceptional vacation rentals in one of the most beautiful coastal destinations in the US: the Outer Banks, North Carolina. From the oceanfront to the sound front, our handpicked rentals provide the perfect home away from home for you. And we are local experts, so for relevant local tips, head to our blog. We cover many topics, from explaining the local seafood culture to all you need to know about fishing, and there’s much more coming.

Now, let’s fall into some fall fun!

TLDR

Here’s a little sneak peek just for you:

• Day at the Docks: Celebrate the history and culture of Hatteras Island’s working watermen in Hatteras Village and much more. 
  
  
• Hatteras Island Surf Fishing Challenge: This surf fishing tournament is perfect for those who love casting your lines along the pristine beaches of Hatteras.
  
  
• Surfin’ Turkey 5K and Puppy Drum Run: Kick off your Thanksgiving celebration with this annual 5K race and fun run.  
  
  
• NCBBA Red Drum Tournament: Enjoy the exceptional fall fishing conditions along the Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
  
  
• Wings Over Water:  Wings Over Water is a weeklong festival at Pea Island National Refuge that features a wide range of educational programs, lectures, and social opportunities for birding enthusiasts.

• Bonus: Other Fall Events in the Outer Banks: Discover more amazing fall events in the Outer Banks.
  
  

1. Day at the Docks 

Honoring Hatteras Island’s working watermen, Day at the Docks is a two-day event held every September in Hatteras Village, usually towards the second week. This event features fresh seafood, live performances, commercial fishing boats, live music, kids’ activities, and much more.

Hatteras Village transforms into a vibrant showcase of authentic life on Hatteras Island. Attendees can watch watermen demonstrate traditional fishing techniques and other integral skills, get an up-close look at the working boats, and learn about their roles in the local fishing industry. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of fresh, locally caught seafood prepared in numerous ways.

Live music performances add a festive atmosphere to the event, while kids’ activities designed to teach them about the local fishing culture make it enjoyable for everyone. The educational aspect of the event emphasizes the importance of sustainable fishing practices and the preservation of the island’s natural resources.

2. Hatteras Island Surf Fishing Challenge

The Hatteras Island Surf Fishing Challenge is an eagerly anticipated event that attracts fishing enthusiasts from all over. Hosted by Fisherman’s Post, this tournament offers a unique opportunity to cast your lines along the pristine beaches of Hatteras Island, a locale renowned for its rich marine biodiversity and breathtaking coastal scenery. Participants get the chance to reel in a variety of game fish while enjoying the camaraderie of fellow anglers, all set against the backdrop of the Atlantic’s rolling waves. With categories for different species and age groups, the event is designed to be inclusive and family-friendly, ensuring that both seasoned fishers and newcomers can have a rewarding experience.

Beyond the thrill of the competition, the Hatteras Island Surf Fishing Challenge also serves as a celebration of the island’s vibrant fishing culture. The challenge not only tests your fishing skills but also provides an opportunity to explore Hatteras Island’s rich history and natural beauty.

3. Surfin’ Turkey 5K and Puppy Drum Run

Presented by the Hatteras Island Youth Education Fund (HIYEF), the Surfin’ Turkey 5K and Puppy Drum Run is a popular annual event held on Hatteras Island, usually at the end of November. It combines fitness, community spirit, and a bit of holiday fun. The event aims to raise funds for educational programs on Hatteras Island while promoting a healthy and active lifestyle within the community.

The race is a traditional 5K run/walk that takes participants through the scenic areas of Hatteras Village. It’s a great way for runners and walkers of all ages and fitness levels to kick off their Thanksgiving celebrations. The Puppy Drum Run is a shorter, more family-friendly event designed for younger participants. It’s perfect for children and those looking for a less intense running experience. For those who don’t feel like running, it’s fun to watch the participants compete while wearing quirky costumes.

After the race, participants can enjoy refreshments, music, and other festivities. Various awards are given to top finishers in different categories, including overall winners and age group winners. There are also fun awards for best costumes and other festive categories.

4. NCBBA Red Drum Tournament 

The NCBBA Red Drum Tournament is a renowned fishing competition held annually at the end of October. This is one of the most anticipated events of the year where participants can enjoy the exceptional fall fishing conditions along the Cape Hatteras National Seashore.

The tournament spans 60 hours of continuous fishing, with participants allowed to fish at their preferred locations within the designated boundaries. More than $10,000 in cash and prizes are awarded, with categories including the largest red drum, most fish caught, and other special recognitions.

NCBBA Red Drum typically ends with a banquet and awards ceremony, celebrating the participants’ achievements. This gathering is a highlight, offering a chance for participants to socialize and share their experiences.

5. Wings Over Water 

Wings Over Water is an annual event held each October that celebrates the Outer Banks as one of the premier bird-watching destinations in the world. Centered around the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, this weeklong festival features a wide range of educational programs, lectures, and social opportunities for birding enthusiasts. Attendees can participate in guided birding trips, art and photography workshops, tram and kayak tours of the National Wildlife Refuge, and visits to ancient maritime forests. Each of these activities provides a deeper understanding and appreciation of the incredible natural environment of the Outer Banks. A detailed schedule of events is available online, and while many programs are free, some require a small participation fee.

The festivities are spread across various locations in the Outer Banks, with a strong emphasis on Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge on Hatteras Island and the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge on the Dare County mainland. This allows festival-goers to join the event from nearly any part of the Outer Banks. Due to limited space in many programs, early online registration is highly recommended to secure a spot in your preferred activities. Wings Over Water is an ideal event for both newcomers and seasoned birders to immerse themselves in the rich natural beauty and wild charm of the Outer Banks. With an array of tours, workshops, and seminars, every nature lover will find a compelling reason to be part of this extraordinary event.

Bonus: Other Fall Events in the Outer Banks 

Nags Head

Outer Banks Seafood Festival: This all-day event celebrates the rich seafood heritage of the Outer Banks with fresh seafood, storytelling, and activities for all ages. It’s a family-friendly outing with plenty of food, music, and entertainment. When: Towards mid-October.

Outer Banks Brewtag: Inspired by the Red Bull Flugtag, this event challenges participants to create flying contraptions out of empty kegs. It’s a fun, family-friendly event with activities for kids, local and regional beer, and great food. When: end of October. 

Kites With Lights: This annual event combines holiday cheer with the natural beauty of the Outer Banks. It features illuminated kites flying over the iconic sand dunes, creating a spectacular visual experience. It’s a perfect way to ignite the holiday spirit​. When: End of November.

Kill Devils Hills

Tipsy Turkey Beer Mile: Kick off your Thanksgiving celebrations with a fun and active event that combines running and beer tasting. Participants run a mile course with beer stops along the way, making it a festive precursor to the holiday feast. When: End of November.

Celebration of Wright Brothers First Flight: This annual celebration honors the Wright brothers’ first successful flight with a day-long event featuring reenactments, educational programs, and family-friendly activities​. When: Beginning of December.

Duck

Outer Banks Pirate Festival: This festival celebrates pirate history with activities for the whole family, including Scallywag school for kids, live music, and pirate-themed games. When: second week of September. 

Duck Jazz Festival: The festival features live jazz performances from both national and regional artists. Multiple stages are set up in the Duck Town Park to accommodate various acts throughout the day. When: Held every Columbus Day weekend in October.

Southern Shores

Flying Falcon Road Race: This lightly competitive road race is open to active visitors of all ages. It’s a great way for residents and vacationers to get into the local spirit while enjoying the scenic sections of the central Outer Banks​. When: Beginning of November.

Manteo

Island Farm Pumpkin Patch: Visit this living history farm for seasonal activities, including pumpkin picking, oxen rides, hot cider, and candle-making crafts. It’s a great way to get into the fall spirit while experiencing a bit of history​. When: Every Saturday in October.

Bluegrass Island Festival: Enjoy some of the best bluegrass music from both national acts and homegrown performers. The festival features acclaimed bands and offers a scenic setting on Roanoke Island​. When: Mid-October.

Wondering where to stay in the Outer Banks, NC?

Booking your stay with Village Realty means staying in one of our exceptional, handpicked homes. From the oceanfront to the sound front, we offer outstanding OBX vacation rentals from South Nags Head to Corolla.

Our number one priority? Your ultimate comfort and happiness. Our local staff will always go the extra mile to make sure you and your family have a special vacation in OBX.

Staying with us, all you have to care about is letting the coastal beauty whisk you away – and you can rest assured it will!