Fall Events on the Outer Banks
When the summer months draw to a close and the throngs of beachgoers slowly dissipate, the Outer Banks in North Carolina begins to witness a different kind of transformation as local and visiting folks ready for a lineup of spectacular fall events. The proud, wide sand beaches become less crowded, offering perfect tranquil spotting for lores of locals and visitors who appreciate the slightly slower pace of life when fall begins its course. Let us give you but a taste of the array of exciting activities and gatherings that await you on the captivating coastline of the Outer Banks.
OBX Multihull Sailfest (September)
As the summer ebbs away and the enchanting allure of fall begins to sparkle across the Outer Banks, sailing aficionados and curious onlookers alike gather in anticipation for one of the most awaited maritime spectacles in the region – the OBX Multihull Sailfest.
Over the span of two days, attendees are treated to a magnificent display of multihull sailboats – renowned for their stability and speed, capturing the essence of adventure that defines the Outer Banks’ spirit.
From beginners eager to dip their toes into the world of sailing to seasoned sailors with a passion for multihull vessels, the event offers something for everyone. Expect your days to be filled with hard-fought races that test the skills and resolve of the participants, making every moment on the water a thrilling spectacle to behold. But it’s not just about the competition; it’s also about community and connection. The festival provides ample opportunities for social gatherings, allowing enthusiasts to share stories, tips, and celebrate their love for sailing in a welcoming and engaging environment.
The OBX Multihull Sailfest is more than just a series of races and social events; it’s an educational experience. Attendees have the opportunity to learn more about multihull sailboats, the intricacies of sailing such vessels, and the rich maritime history of the Outer Banks. It’s a chance to immerse oneself in the sailing culture, understand the nuances of the hobby, and maybe even ignite a lifelong passion for the sea and sailing.
OBX Pridefest (September)
OBX Pridefest is a vibrant expression of unity, offering a safe and welcoming space for LGBTQ folks, their supporters, friends, and anyone who believes in love across all spectrums. Spread over three joyous days, this festival unfurls a rich tapestry of culture, music, and fellowship that transcends boundaries and fosters meaningful connections.
OBX Pridefest is not only recognized as a premier gay pride festival but also celebrated as an all-inclusive gathering that encapsulates the spirit of the Outer Banks community. It’s a full-bodied experience brimming with events that cater to a diverse audience, ensuring that everyone, regardless of who they love or how they identify, feels embraced and celebrated.
The crown jewel of OBX Pridefest is the free, family-friendly Pride Festival, happening this year on Saturday, September 14th, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. This daytime extravaganza, hosted at the scenic Roanoke Island Festival Park in Downtown Manteo, NC, promises an unmissable lineup of entertainment and joy. Revel in the sounds of live bands, witness the glamor of drag performances, and enjoy the talents of various entertainers who all come together for this vibrant celebration.
OBX Pridefest also weaves in various fun activities designed to cater to a wide range of interests and age groups. These activities serve as perfect opportunities for making new friends, celebrating diversity, and creating lasting memories amidst the beautiful landscapes of the Outer Banks.
Surfalorus Film Festival (September)
Submerge yourself in the immersive spirit of both surf and cinema with Surfalorus, a distinctive event that seamlessly blends the thrill of wave riding with the cinematic storytelling art form. Surfalorus welcomes attendees to ride the wave of skilled filmmaking reflecting surfing culture and the intimate bond between humankind and the mighty ocean.
The event is a packed three-day schedule featuring an array of creatively curated sections. High-profile film screenings captivate attendees by showcasing stories from the vast realm of surfing and ocean life. These films blend exhilarating surfing stunts, the breathtaking beauty of seascapes, and the fascinating narratives of people connected to the sea, creating a cinematic experience that goes beyond the realm of traditional film festivals.
Surfalorus is more than a traditional film festival. It’s a unique celebration of surf culture, waves, and art. Be sure to check the event’s schedule on their website to plan your immersion in this fantastic blend of surf and cinema.
OBX Jeep Invasion (September)
Jeep enthusiasts, mark your calendars! The OBX Jeep Invasion is back, promising an unforgettable blend of scenic drives, community spirit, competitive showcases, and charitable giving. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Outer Banks, this event is a call to all who love the roar of an engine, the scent of the ocean, and the joy of giving back.
Scheduled to bring together Jeep lovers from all over, this event is packed with activities that cater to all ages and interests.
The OBX Jeep Invasion is packed with additional attractions, including raffles with exciting prizes, live bands providing the perfect soundtrack for the event, and an array of food trucks serving up delicious, local cuisine. It’s a full day of entertainment, excitement, and camaraderie.
Duck Jazz Festival (October)
Mark your calendars for an unforgettable weekend of melody, rhythm, and the soothing sound of waves at the Duck Jazz Festival, presented by PNC Bank. This much-anticipated event transforms the scenic Duck Town Park into a musical haven, celebrating jazz in all its forms. As a staple of early October in Duck, North Carolina, this festival has grown to be a key event for jazz aficionados and newcomers alike.
Prepare to be captivated by a dazzling array of jazz performances over two days. Featuring artists from across the spectrum of jazz styles, the festival promises something for every taste, from the deep roots of traditional jazz to contemporary blends and experimental sounds.
Attendees are encouraged to extend their Outer Banks visit, exploring jazz-themed events, promotions, and celebrations at local businesses. From intimate performances at cozy venues to special offers that celebrate the festival, there’s an abundance of jazz-infused experiences waiting around town.
Outer Banks Seafood Festival (October)
Dive into the essence of seaside flavors and traditions at the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, an annual celebration that honors the region’s deep-rooted fishing heritage through a feast of the freshest seafood, live cooking demonstrations, and an array of oceanic festivities. Held in the heart of the Outer Banks, this festival is not just an event but a commemoration of the bountiful seas and the vibrant community that thrives around it.
At the core of the festival is the promise of indulgence, inviting you to “Eat like a local, drink like a fish.” Participants are treated to the quintessential OBX culinary experience, featuring an expansive menu of seafood dishes cooked to perfection by local chefs. From savory crab cakes and grilled fish to steaming clam chowder, there’s an ocean of flavors to explore. Pair your picks with a selection of fine beverages, celebrating the local spirit with each sip.
As a day of fun-filled activities unfolds, the Outer Banks Seafood Festival stands out as more than just a gathering – it’s a vivid expression of culinary passion, cultural heritage, and community celebration. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast eager to sample every dish, a lifelong learner fascinated by maritime history, or simply looking for a day of music and joy, this festival ensures that every visitor leaves with a satisfied palate and a heart full of coastal serenity.
Join the festivities for a day that promises not just to satisfy your seafood cravings, but to offer a slice of Outer Banks life, where every bite tells the story of the sea and every note sings the tale of its people.
Outer Banks Brewtag (October)
The OBX Brewtag is an extraordinary gathering, inspired by the imaginative spirit of the Red Bull Flugtag, which captures the imagination with a unique twist on flight. Here, at a festival fueled by the vibrant culture of craft beer, competitors undertake a curious challenge: launching empty 1/6 keg barrels to see who can achieve the longest distance. It’s a spectacle of ingenuity and strength, where the sky becomes a canvas for the aspirations of spirited teams.
Hosted by The Rogallo Foundation, which honors Francis Rogallo, the inventor of the flexible wing and a pioneer of modern hang gliding, the OBX Brewtag pays homage to his legacy of flight. The festival transcends traditional boundaries, combining the thrill of competition with the communal joy of a craft beer festival. As teams prepare to catapult their kegs into the air, spectators and participants alike revel in the anticipation of each launch, cheering on as these barrels take flight against the coastal backdrop.
And what’s a celebration of craft beer without the opportunity to taste it? The festival features an impressive selection of breweries, each booth a portal to new flavors and styles. From hoppy IPAs and robust stouts to refreshing ales and lagers, there’s a brew for every palate. Sampling these, attendees can savor the artistry and passion that define the craft beer community.
The OBX Brewtag invites one and all to a day where the ecstasy of flight, the pleasure of craft beer, and the delight of good food and music come together. It’s a unique, entertaining event where creativity flies as high as a keg, communities come together to celebrate, and the spirit of the Outer Banks is on full display. Whether you’re competing, spectating, or simply soaking in the ambiance, the OBX Brewtag promises an unforgettable experience where fun and camaraderie soar to new heights.
Bluegrass Island Music Festival (October)
This exceptional four-day event, located at the historic Pioneer Theater, promises a riveting blend of the genre’s finest tunes, where the rich sounds of banjos, fiddles, and guitars create a melodious backdrop against the serene beauty of the Outer Banks.
The festival proudly hosts a stellar lineup of both revered names in the Bluegrass genre and emerging local talent, ensuring an unforgettable experience for attendees. Each day unfolds with performances that are as diverse as they are captivating, offering something for every aficionado of this age-old music tradition. From the virtuosic plucking of strings to harmonious vocal performances, the festival is a showcase of raw, unfiltered talent and passion for Bluegrass music.
What sets the Bluegrass Island Music Festival apart is not just the quality of its music but the sense of community it fosters. It’s an event where stories are shared, friendships are formed, and the universal language of music unites everyone. It’s an opportunity to kick back, relax, and let the rhythmic strums transport you to a place where music echoes the simplicity and beauty of life.
Tipsy Turkey Beer Mile (November)
Injecting a dose of merriment into the Thanksgiving festivities, the Outer Banks Running Company invites you to participate in the annual Tipsy Turkey 1 Mile Beer Run—an event that both running and beer enthusiasts will love.
The Tipsy Turkey 1 Mile Beer Run offers a unique twist to your conventional road race. The formula is simple—drink, run, repeat; interspersing four quarter-mile runs with the enjoyment of 10 oz beers, leading up to a mile. This fun twist is perfect for those who enjoy a little playful challenge.
Once you’ve completed this uncommon mile, the celebration is far from over. Held at the Outer Banks Brewing Station at 600 S. Croatan Hwy in Kill Devil Hills, NC, the Beer Run is not only about the race but also a backyard party where camaraderie is on tap. Join fellow runners and the Brewing Station crew to keep the Thanksgiving spirit alive!
Kites with Lights (November)
Kites with Lights is a spectacular display that promises a visual feast for attendees, showcasing the beauty and artistry of kites in a way that captures the essence of the holiday season.
Imagine the sky above Jockey’s Ridge State Park, already a sight to behold, becoming even more magical with large kites, ranging from 19 to 30 feet, soaring gracefully. These aren’t ordinary kites; they’re intricately designed and festively adorned with lights that twinkle and dance in the night sky. As darkness envelopes the landscape, these kites light up, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that draws eyes and hearts upwards in awe.
Vacation with Village Realty
Village Realty is renowned for providing access to a range of premium vacation rentals—from oceanfront condos and pet-friendly homes to large estates perfect for the whole family’s retreat. Whether you’re seeking a classic Outer Banks beach house rental or a villa on the fairway, Village Realty offers an accommodation style to suit every preference and requirement.
So, why choose Village Realty for your vacation? Because here, you’re not just booking a stay; you’re unlocking an adventure, a slice of history, and a bounty of unforgettable experiences that await in the Outer Banks. Come, be part of a journey that promises to be extraordinary, with Village Realty as your trusted guide.
