Vacation Resources
- RI Festival Park
- Dare County Arts
- Elizabethan Garden
- Marshes Light
- RI Walking Tour
  & Guidebook
- OBX® Marathon

Maps & Guides

Cameron House Inn

The entries in the following sections are listed in alphabetical order.

View all Roanoke Island Attractions I All Summer Long I RI Festival Park I
Performances | Special Events I Tours I Wanchese I Annual Events

Back to top

Back to Recreation

Roanoke Island Festival Park / Elizabeth II
1 Festival Park, Across from the Manteo Waterfront
(252) 475-1500
Did you know that the first Roanoke Island settlements predate the Jamestown settlement of 1607? The Roanoke Island settlements took place 20 years earlier, between 1585 and 1587. Though the Roanoke Island colonies didn’t prove successful as far as longevity, they were the foundations of English-speaking life in America and provided much-needed information about the New World that helped the later colonies succeed. Roanoke Island Festival Park is the place to learn about these first English settlements.

The centerpiece of the park is the 69-foot Elizabeth II, a representative 16th-century sailing ship. Costumed interpreters speaking Old English greet visitors to the ship and answer questions about 16th-century seafaring. Discover a New World at Roanoke Island Festival Park, an interactive family attraction that celebrates the first English settlement in America. The state-run park and cultural center is just across the bridge from the downtown Manteo Waterfront on its own 25-acre island. Be prepared for a day of fun, as there is a lot to do and see here.

Pavilion — The outdoor Pavilion and surrounding grounds offer a perfect place to enjoy a picnic and concert. Events are scheduled year round. See the listing for NCSA Summer Performance Festival in our Performances section below.

Fossil Search — Find ancient treasures, including shark’s teeth and coral, from a time long before the colonists arrived.

Roanoke Adventure Museum — The Roanoke Adventure Museum features highly interactive, multi-sensory hands-on exhibits and experience on 400 years of Outer Banks history. The exhibits invite interaction, especially the dress-up trunk of Elizabethan clothing and the duck hunting station. Watch as history comes alive for children of all ages in the hands-on exhibits.

Gallery — Located in the Administration Building, the Gallery features a different art exhibit every month, with most of the artwork done by local artists. Sometimes other important works of art are brought to this distinguished gallery.

Film Theater — The film The Legend of Two-Path is shown several times a day in the 242-seat Film Theater. This 50-minute film, produced by the School of Film Making at North Carolina School of the Arts, tells the Native Americans’ perspective of how the arrival of the colonists changed their lives. The Summer Children’s Performance Series, Bloody Mary and the Virgin Queen and many other special performances are also held here year round.

Elizabeth II — The Elizabeth II is a representation of a particular 16th-century English merchant ship, Elizabeth, one of seven in Sir Walter Raleigh’s 1585 expedition to establish England’s first New World colony. Living history interpreters engage guests with sea tales, legends and historical facts. The Elizabeth II’s tender, the Silver Chalice, is 24 feet long and carries up to 15 crew members.

Settlement Site – The Settlement Site is where guests get to interact with costumed interpreters portraying the colonist men and women as they settled into life in the New World. Visitors can try their hand at blacksmithing, woodworking, colonial games and more. See how the first English settlers lived when they arrived in the New World. Try on some of their armor, learn some 16th-century warfare techniques and some of the arts and crafts needed to make life tolerable on Roanoke Island 400 years ago.

American Indian Town and Cultural Education Center – Roanoke Island Festival Park’s newest feature, schedule to open in late summer 2008, is this exciting education center featuring interactive, family-oriented opportunities for guests to learn about the heritage and traditions of the American Indians. It features structures, role-play environments and a variety of activities such as constructing dwellings, building a dug-out canoe, working a fish trap, food preparation and more.

History Garden – A wooded clearing, this is the intimate setting for special events, such as the History Garden Programs held during the summer season. Costumed interpreters tell about the men and women who ventured to the New World.

Boardwalks & Grounds — Enjoy wildlife in a natural setting while walking the Boardwalk that runs throughout the park. Along the landscaped walks, native shrubs and flowers thrive in the sound and marsh. The Boardwalk joins the Roanoke Voyages Trail, which bisects Roanoke Island. Please feel free to park on the site and enjoy the island at a slower pace.

Outer Banks History Center —The Outer Banks History Center, (252) 473-2655, is a public research facility with a friendly staff that is willing to help you find something interesting. The library includes books, magazines, journals, microforms and other published materials on a wide array of topics relevant to the history of the Outer Banks. Archival holdings include personal and organizational papers, manuscripts, photographs, maps, oral history tapes and ephemera.

back to top

Performances

Bloody Mary and the Virgin Queen
Roanoke Island Festival Park’s Film Theatre
(252) 473-1061
This outrageous musical farce is based on the fact that Queen Elizabeth I and her half-sister Mary Tudor absolutely loathed one another during their lives, yet they were buried in the same tomb at Westminster Abbey. The show, set in present day, begins when the tourists have left the Abbey, allowing the ghosts to start their vocal bantering and arguing. The dialogue is a blend of contemporary issues and political satire about world and Roanoke Island events. This production is recommended for ages 14 and up. Admission is included in the price of general admission to Roanoke Island Festival Park. The play is performed on Wednesdays June 4, 11 and 18 and on August 6, 13 and 20 at 3 p.m. The play lasts about an hour.

Diary of Adam and Eve
The Elizabethan Gardens’ Theatre
(252) 473-3234
The Diary of Adam & Eve is a one-act play from the Broadway musical The Apple Tree. Performances are held in the air-conditioned theater at The Elizabethan Gardens on Tuesdays at 2:30 p.m. from July 8 through August 12. Based on a short story by Mark Twain and set to words and music by the team of Harnick and Bock who created Fiddler on the Roof, this light comedy is the perfect story for a garden setting. Younger family members can enjoy a concurrent program, A Snake in the Grass, if they choose not to see the play. Admittance to the play is free with paid admission to The Elizabethan Gardens.

Elizabeth R
Roanoke Island Festival Park’s Film Theatre
(252) 475-1500
Miss Barbara Hird gives a commanding performance as Queen Elizabeth I in this one-woman, internationally acclaimed show. Hird is committed to authenticity in this interpretation of the character of Queen Elizabeth I. In the hour-long performance, the Queen spills the intimate details of her life, including her likes and dislikes, the reasons for making her decisions and information about her parents, her lovers and Sir Walter Raleigh's colonies. This production is recommended for ages 14 and up. It runs Tuesdays June 3, 10 and 17 at 3 p.m. Admission is included in the general admission ticket price to the park. Tickets can be ordered in advance.

Shepherd of the Ocean
Roanoke Island Festival Park
(252) 475-1500
This whimsical comedy about the relationship between Queen Elizabeth I and Sir Walter Ralegh (“Ralegh” is actually the historically accurate spelling, say the show’s creators). The play premiered in 2006 at the international Sir Walter Ralegh Festival in Youghal, Ireland, receiving rave reviews during its three-week run. Set primarily in a time warp, the play is a flashback of Ralegh’s most cherished moments with Queen Elizabeth. The 50-minute show is best suited for ages 14 and older. It runs Thursdays June 5, 12, 19 and August 7, 14 and 21 at 3 p.m. Admission is included in the general admission ticket to the park.

The Lost Colony Children’s Theater Presents Sleeping Beauty
Waterside Theatre, 1409 National Park Drive (off U.S. Highway 64)
(252) 473-3414
The Lost Colony cast puts on a fantastic version of Sleeping Beauty with singing and dancing that is fun for the whole family. Face-painting and balloon-sculpting also entertain the children. Performances are held Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. from June 19 to August 14 in Waterside Theater. Tickets cost $5 per person.

The Lost Colony Special Productions
Waterside Theatre, 1409 National Park Drive
(252) 473-3414 or (252) 473-2127
The Lost Colony production brings a vast talent pool to the Outer Banks every summer — singers, dancers, actors, choreographers, wardrobe designers and more. They use that talent to do more than entertain in The Lost Colony; they also put on some other great shows. Call for ticket prices and to reserve lower-priced advance tickets. Tickets are also available at the door. In 2008, they will present three special shows:

Into the Woods – This Broadway show will be held June 29 and July 13 at 8:15 p.m.

A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum – Another Broadway show will be held on August 3 and 10 at 8:15 p.m.

Reaching for the Stars – A Spectacle of Song and Dance – A showcase of original dances and live music will be held August 16 at 8:15 p.m.

NCSA Summer Performance Festival
Roanoke Island Festival Park Pavilion & Film Theater, across from the Manteo Waterfront.
(252) 475-1506
What a great way to spend a summer evening! From June 24 through August 2, bring a blanket or folding chairs, spread out on the lawn in front of the picturesque Pavilion and watch talented artists and performers from the prestigious North Carolina School of the Arts. Performances vary each of the six weeks and include music, drama, dance and movies. Believe it or not, these high-caliber shows are free! Evening shows are held at 8 p.m., Tuesday through Friday, with family-friendly films outdoors on Saturday nights. In case of rain, all shows are moved indoors to the Film Theatre stage. Picnics are encouraged, and you can pick them up to go from Manteo's eateries (see Restaurants).

The NSCA Summer Performance Festival also features Afternoon Classics, live music performances at 2 p.m. Tuesday through Friday in the air-conditioned climate of the Festival Park Film Theatre. New this summer, don’t miss Classics for Kids on Thursdays at 2 p.m. to include a musical petting zoo, Rockin’ with Mozart and Sid, the Serpent. On Wednesdays at 7 p.m., relax on the Manteo waterfront as NCSA musicians Rock the Boat! on board the Elizabeth II.

Summer Children’s Performance Series
Roanoke Island Festival Park, Across from the Manteo Waterfront
(252) 475-1500
The Summer Children's Performance Series features world-class entertainment for all ages, but it's especially geared to children. From plays to storytellers to comedians and a mini-circus, the performers delight and excite the young audience. This series is very popular so arrive early to ensure a seat. The series is held in the Film Theatre at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday through Friday from June 24 through August 1. Admission is included in the Park's general admission ticket price and is free for Friends of the Elizabeth II.

Back to top

Back to Recreation

Tours

Manteo Self-Guided Walking Tour Book
Manteo is much more than a modern vacation resort. It’s a place with an interesting past. In the downtown and waterfront area, you can see remnants of days gone by — and a great way to experience this history is with One Boat Guides’ Manteo Walking Tour. The book features an easy-to-follow map and format that guides you through Manteo, showing historic photographs, pointing out historical details and landmarks and relating anecdotes along the way.

One Boat Guides also features walking and driving tours to Corolla, Nags Head, Hatteras Island and Ocracoke Village. The books are available on the Outer Banks in bookstores, gift shops, grocery stores, attractions and specialty shops. Or you can call (252) 473-1111 to order a copy in advance of your visit and have it shipped to you. Look for their distinctive covers with historic photographs. Have fun exploring the history of the Outer Banks!

Historic Manteo Candlelight Walking Tour
Downtown Manteo
(252) 441-4124, (877) FLY-THIS
The historic old Manteo candlelight walking tour is an excellent, entertaining way to learn about the history of Manteo. Walk the streets of historic downtown Manteo by lamplight as your tour guide shares local history, folklore and ghost stories. The tour focuses on Manteo as it was from 1886 to 1924. The tour begins on Queen Elizabeth Street, directly across from the old county courthouse. Call for details.

Weaving Studio at Endless Possibilities 105 Budleigh Street (252) 475-1575 Come see weaving artists and volunteers at work on the colorful looms at Endless Possibilities, then learn to weave yourself. Volunteering here is free and includes a weaving lesson. They can teach anyone to weave in about 15 minutes, and then you have the rest of the day to perfect your craft. If you’d like to keep what you make you can pay a fee. Just call ahead to secure a loom. Endless Possibilities is also a great shopping destination with lots of unique handmade goods. All proceeds from the shop go to Outer Banks Hotline, a local nonprofit crisis intervention and prevention center. See our Shopping page.

Dare County Arts Council Gallery 104 Sir Walter Raleigh Street (252) 473-5888 This great little gallery showcases the work of Dare County artists, and artwork for the General Member Art Shows is refreshed monthly. You'll find paintings, prints, pottery and jewelry. There are bins of local artists' unframed art too. You have to check out the cool Art-o-mat machine where you can buy cellophane-wrapped packages of original artwork by North Carolina artists. This is the place to get any information you need about the arts in Dare County, as it is also the office of the Dare County Arts Council.

back to top

Back to Recreation

Special Events

First Friday
Downtown Manteo
First Friday is a family-oriented downtown festival held in the evening from 6 to 8 p.m. on the first Friday of every month from April through December. Downtown Manteo’s sidewalks come alive and the streets are festive on these nights. Several shops and restaurants do an individual celebration of some sort, such as live music, special sales and hors-d’oeuvres. It’s a great time to explore downtown Manteo.

Manteo Farmers Market
George Washington Creef Park, Manteo Waterfront
On Saturday mornings from June 14 to September 27, the Farmers Market features home-grown, home-baked and homemade goods for sale. Pick up fresh produce or flowers, buy some local artwork or buy some sweets, all in a beautiful waterfront setting next to the Maritime Museum. This makes a great family outing as there’s a playground next to the market area and kids love to play on the waterfront. The market is held from 8 am to noon. For more information visit www.townofmanteo.com.

Tea with the Queen
Waterside Theater
(252) 473-3414
This might be your only chance to meet the Queen of England. Tea with the Queen allows you to visit with The Lost Colony’s Queen Elizabeth and her royal court for a sumptuous dessert and iced tea, along with some delightful antics, at Waterside Theatre. After tea, a behind-the-scenes tour of Waterside Theatre is included. The event is held from 3 to 5 p.m. on the following dates: June 26, July 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 and August 7 and 14. Advance reservations are required.

Waterside Art Tuesday
Waterside Craft Wednesday
Waterside Theatre
(252) 473-3414
To entertain your 7 to 12 year olds in the afternoon, come to Waterside Theatre for art classes and craft workshops. On Tuesday from 1 to 2:30, youth can create watercolor drawings like those John White made of Roanoke Island in 1585. On Wednesdays, youth can create Native American beadwork. Activities include a video, instruction and time to create. Supplies and snacks are included on both days. Cost is $10 per person.

back to top

Back to Recreation

Wanchese

For a true taste of island living, visit the village of Wanchese at the south end of the island. To get there, head down N.C. Highway 345 from the main intersection at the south end of the island. The village is not particularly walkable, but you can drive around at a Sunday-afternoon pace, soaking up local flavor and wishing you had a simpler life. This historic fishing village is truly untouched by tourism, which is exactly why it’s so charming to tourists. Though there’s no welcome mat laid out for tourists, the residents of the village are friendly.

Drive through the neighborhoods, but also head down to the end of Mill Landing Road to the harbor where you’ll see all sorts of fishing vessels and relics tied up at the docks. Have a meal at Queen Anne’s Revenge or Fisherman’s Wharf (see Restaurants) or buy some fresh seafood from one of the markets. Gray Beard’s on Mill Landing Road and O’Neals Sea Harvest on Harbor Road both offer fresh local seafood. If you’d like to go fishing yourself, head down to Broad Creek Fishing Center or Thicket Lump Marina where there are a variety of boats for charter (see Fishing).

Back to top

Back to Recreation

Annual Events

Roanoke Island is the special events capital of the Outer Banks. No matter what time of year you visit, most likely you will find some kind of event or festival happening on Roanoke Island. The summer months are jam-packed with events; be sure to see our section called ALL SUMMER LONG – Manteo’s Summer Events for a complete rundown of fun things to do here in the summer.

February

The Elizabethan Rendezvous
Penguin Isle Restaurant, Nags Head
(252) 473-1061
Produced by Elizabeth R and Company and The Lost Colony, this popular annual event is a fun-filled gala of evening and feasting, Elizabethan style. It re-creates the atmosphere of an Elizabethan feast that would have been held for Queen Elizabeth I. Professional revelers are on hand. Reservations are required.

Back to Annual Events

March

The Vagina Monologues
Various locations
These local productions of Eve Ensler’s popular and moving play are performed by local actors every other March on Roanoke Island. Look for ads giving details of locations and tickets.

Annual Priceless Pieces Quilt Show
Roanoke Island Festival Park, Manteo
(252) 475-1500
A popular quilt show Priceless Pieces features old and new quilts with some kind of connection to Dare County. There are quilt-related activities and demonstrations planned throughout the month. Call for details.

Roanoke Island 1682 - A Civil War Living History Weekend
Roanoke Island Festival Park
(252) 475-1500
The annual Civil War Living History Weekend commemorates the anniversary of The Battle of Roanoke Island. The event features many interactive opportunities for both children and adults including a recruiting station, gun drills, blacksmithing, a 19th-century toy display, crafts, boat history, soap carving, capture the flag games, woodworking, music, a living history encampment with 19th-century cooking, a drawing table interpreting the use of art as a communication tool during the Civil War, lectures and more.

Back to Annual Events

April

Land of Beginnings Festival
April 4-12
Various locations
(252) 473-2127
This is a week-long festival of activities across the Outer Banks and celebrating the diverse cultural sites of the area. A black-tie gala is the highlight of the event.

Dare County High Schools Art Show
April 7-28
Roanoke Island Festival Park, Manteo
(252) 475-1500
This annual show features artwork of students from Manteo, First Flight and Cape Hatteras high schools. There are many talented young artists in the area, and the work is in a variety of media such as photography, paintings, sculpture and pottery.

Earth Day
April 19
North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island
(252) 473-3494
The aquarium observes Earth Day with special workshops and events and fun for all ages. Special “Year of the Frog” activities are planned in 2008.

Outer Banks Triathlon
April 26
Downtown Manteo
(252) 599-0911
This sprint or Olympic Triathlon is held on the downtown Manteo Waterfront. Course and registration information is available at www.obxtri.com. There’s also a kids’ triathlon

Back to Annual Events

May

Annual Mollie Fearing Memorial Art Show
May 5 - 27
Roanoke Island Festival Park, Manteo
(252) 473-5558, (252) 475-1500
The Dare County Arts Council presents this show honoring its founder, Mollie Fearing. The show features local artwork including sculpture, paintings, stained glass, photography and more.

March of Dimes: Walk America
May 17
Roanoke Island Festival Park, Manteo
(757) 361-0000, (800) 732-7097
The March of Dimes sponsors this event. The 5-mile walk loops through historic Manteo and is followed by a picnic. Registration is at 8 a.m. and the walk begins at 9 a.m.

OBX Music Festival
May 25
Roanoke Island Festival Park
(252) 475-1888
A selection of beach music bands perform in the Outdoor Pavilion. Food and beverages are available.

The Lost Colony Preview Night
May 29
(252) 473-3414
This is the final dress rehearsal before opening night. Tickets are sold at a special price.

Roanoke Island House and Garden Tour
May 29
(252) 473-3234
The Elizabethan Gardens and Roanoke Island Garden Club invite you to tour island homes and their gardens and to attend special programs at The Elizabethan Gardens. All proceeds benefit The Elizabethan Gardens.

Back to Annual Events

June
Most of the events in June are events that last all summer. See our ALL SUMMER LONG section.

North Carolina Symphony
June 5
Roanoke Island Festival Park, Manteo
(252) 475-1500
What better way to enjoy the North Carolina Symphony than on a summer evening, gazing up at the stars? This event is free and open to the public. All seating is on the lawn, but you can bring blankets, lawn chairs and picnics. The Dare County Tourism Board funds the event. The symphony begins at 8 p.m.

Dare Day
June 7
Downtown Manteo/Waterfront
(252) 475-5629
Outer Banks locals and a ton of visitors gather on the Manteo waterfront for the annual Dare Day festival on the first Saturday in June. This wonderful, homespun festival features all-day entertainment, from dance troupes and cloggers to nationally known bands and barbershop quartets. Food vendors serve up festival treats like fried seafood and cotton candy, and arts and crafts booths are set up along the waterfront boardwalk. Children’s activities provide for even more fun. It all begins at 9 a.m. and lasts well into the evening.

World Ocean Day
June 8
North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island
(252) 473-3494
Come to the Aquarium for ocean-related activities for all ages.

Hurricane Week
June 9-13
North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island
(252) 473-3494
Learn about hurricanes with special events at the Aquarium.

Into the Woods
June 29
Waterside Theatre
(252) 473-3414
The Lost Colony Company performs this Broadway musical in the outdoor setting of Waterside Theatre at 8:15 p.m. Don’t miss it!

Back to Annual Events

July
Most of the events in July are events that last all summer.

Independence Day Celebration
July 4
Downtown Manteo and Roanoke Island Festival Park
(252) 475-1500
The Town of Manteo really does it up for the Fourth of July. There’s always a live show in front of the old courthouse, plus there are vendors of all sorts selling food and drinks. The Wacky Hat contest and decorated bike contest are winners with children and adults. Around 9:30 p.m., the town sponsors a professional fireworks show, set off at Roanoke Island Festival Park. Prior to the fireworks, at 8 p.m., music is provided by students from the North Carolina School of the Arts as part of the NCSA Summer Performance Festival.

Into the Woods
July 13
Waterside Theatre
(252) 473-3414
The Lost Colony Company performs the Broadway classic Into the Woods in Waterside Theatre at 8:15 p.m.

6th Annual One Design Regatta
July 26
North Carolina Maritime Museum, Manteo Waterfront
(252) 475-1750
Whether you want to participate or watch, this is a fun summer event. Sailboat races are held for adults and youth.

Back to Annual Events

August
Most of the events in August are events that last all summer.

A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum
August 3 & 10
Waterside Theatre
(252) 473-3414
The Lost Colony Company will perform this Broadway classic in Waterside Theatre at 8:15 p.m.

Amphibian Week
August 4-8
North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island
Special events related to frogs and amphibians will be held at the aquarium this week.

Herbert Hoover’s Birthday Celebration
August 11
Manteo Booksellers, 101 Sir Walter Raleigh Street, Manteo
(252) 473-1221
Manteo Booksellers has celebrated Herbert Hoover’s August 10 birthday for more than 20 years. The party for the 31st president’s birthday includes book signings, music, trivia contests, birthday cake and punch.

Annual Roanoke Island American Indian Cultural Festival & Powwow
August 9 & 10
Airport Pavilion Lawn, Airport Road, across from N.C. Aquarium
(757) 477-3589
Come and enjoy this wonderful native experience as tribes gather on ancestral grounds to celebrate and share our culture on the west side of Roanoke Island along the tranquil waters of the Croatan Sound. This is a wholesome family activity that features a gathering of American Indian tribes from across the nation dressed in tribal regalia, traditional and contemporary American Indian music, dance, visual arts, storytelling and much more. Educational displays exhibit artifacts used and items traded by the American Indians. American Indian foods as well as other festival foods are available for purchase.

Reaching for the Stars: A Spectacle of Song and Dance
August 16
Waterside Theatre
(252) 473-3414
Enjoy a showcase of original dance and live music performed by The Lost Colony Company in Waterside Theatre at 8:15 p.m.

New World Festival of the Arts
August 13 & 14
Manteo Waterfront
(252) 473-2838
More than 80 artists show and sell work at this wonderful waterfront art show. It’s always held mid-week, on a Wednesday and Thursday, in mid-August. Park the car and stroll amongst the booths in historic Manteo to see a variety of art works for sale.

Virginia Dare Faire
August 18
Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, Elizabethan Gardens, The Lost Colony
(252) 473-2127
Virginia Dare was the first child born in America to English parents. A member of the 1587 “Lost Colony,” Virginia was born on August 18, 1587, right here on Roanoke Island. You can celebrate her 421st birthday with special events at Fort Raleigh National Historic Site. The Lost Colony commemorates the event by featuring cameos by local infant actors in its performance that night. There are also free activities with music, fun and games for the whole family during the day.

Labor Day Concert
August 31
Roanoke Island Festival Park Outdoor Pavilion
Enjoy live music on the lawn from noon to 7 p.m. This event is fun for the whole family.

Back to Annual Events

September

Paint Out in The Gardens
September 20 & 21
The Elizabethan Gardens
(252) 473-3234
Paint Out is a non-juried en plein air event open to amateur and professional painters of all ages, followed by a wet sale of artwork.

Roanoke Island Freedmen's Colony Celebration
September 26
Cartwright Park
(252) 473-2753
This celebration honors the memory of the Freedmen’s Colony, a colony of escaped and former slaves that formed on Roanoke Island during and following the Civil War. Hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Back to Annual Events

October

Elizabethan Tymes: A Country Faire
October 4 and 5
Roanoke Island Festival Park
The faire is held 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday and features many Elizabethan-style events and festivities.

Wildfest
October 18
College of the Albemarle, Manteo
(252) 987-1118
Wildfest is a family-oriented event with wildlife exhibitors, live animal shows, plenty of activities and wildlife-related vendors. It’s a MUST for families with elementary and middle school-aged children! It’s held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Harvest Heyday
October 26
The Elizabethan Gardens
(252) 473-3234
You’ll enjoy this fun-filled family event with square dancing, games and a hayride. It’s the perfect autumn activity.

Trick or Treat Under the Sea
October 30
North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island
(252) 473-3494
Celebrate Halloween at the Aquarium. Kids can trick or treat at booths set up by local businesses. Tickets are $5.

Back to Annual Events

November

OBX® Marathon, Gateway Bank Half-marathon & Kelly Hospitality Group Fun Run
November 8 and 9
If you’re a runner or walker, you don’t want to miss this event on a flat course with awesome scenery and the spirited residents of the Outer Banks cheering for you all along the way. On Sunday, November 9, 2008, you can participate in the third annual OBX Marathon, the Gateway Bank Half-Marathon. The Kelly's Hospitality Group Fun Run is held on November 8. The course for the marathon begins in Kitty Hawk, travels on through Kill Devil Hills and around the Wright Memorial, goes through Nags Head and ends on Roanoke Island. The Gateway Bank Half-Marathon in Nags Head and ends on Roanoke Island. Walkers are welcome, so there’s no excuse not to be involved. The finish line and marathon village are located in Manteo. For information and to register, go to: www.obxmarathon.com, but register early because this event will sell out.

Wings Over Water Festival
November 4-9
Various Outer Banks locations
Celebrate Outer Banks flora and fauna during this fun and educational week-long event. The program includes nature-oriented field trips, seminars and programs including kayak excursions, red wolf howlings, bear watching and Gulf Stream treks. There is a very full schedule of events in this early November program.

Back to Annual Events

December

Holiday Open House
December 3
The Elizabethan Gardens, The Lost Colony and Fort Raleigh
Enjoy good food and good spirits at Fort Raleigh’s attractions and find special deals and great decorations in The Gardens’ gift shop.

Manteo Rockfish Rodeo
December 5 and 6
(252) 473-6644
This fishing tournament is sponsored by the Manteo Rotary Club. Fishing is in the sounds, and the registration and awards ceremonies are held at Roanoke Island Festival Park’s Outdoor Pavilion.

Town of Manteo Christmas Tree Lighting Festivities
December 5 and 6
Downtown Manteo
(252) 473-2133
The lighting of the town tree is a special event in Manteo. There are Christmas carols and other music, a pageant that recounts tales through the years on Roanoke Island plus a Yule log and hot beverages for all. The event starts about 6 p.m. in front of the historic courthouse on Queen Elizabeth Avenue.

Town of Manteo’s Annual Christmas Parade with Santa
December 6
Downtown Manteo
(252) 473-2133
The parade begins at 11 a.m., starting at the Manteo High School and winding its way along the waterfront and through downtown. This is an event that has people from all over Dare County lining the streets, with the children exuberantly scrambling for the candy that gets tossed from lots of the floats.

Manteo Preservation Trust’s Holiday Tour of Homes
December 14
Downtown Manteo
(252) 473-5548
This annual event, held the second Sunday of December, is your chance to see inside some of the wonderful island homes, which are decorated beautifully for the holiday season, and to enjoy hors d’oeuvres and festive goodies. The tour is held from 2 to 7 p.m. Tickets usually cost $15, and proceeds benefit the Manteo Preservation Trust.

Elizabethan Christmas
December 27
Roanoke Island Festival Park
Visitors to the park can get a taste of 16th-century holiday traditions from 2 to 5 p.m. as they make decorations, learn dances, sing songs, discover food and drink of the season and indulge in merriment. It’s held on Saturday, December 27 from noon to 5 p.m.

Back to Annual Events

Back to top

Back to Recreation

Home l Accommodations l Attractions l Fishing l Getting Here l History l Real Estate l Recreation
Restaurants l Shopping l Wedding Sites l Wedding Services l Roanoke Links l Contact

OTHER OUTER BANKS GUIDES: OBX Guides l Corolla l Duck l Hatteras l Nags Head l Ocracoke l Roanoke Island