Experience OBXmas Weekends: Festive Holiday Events on the Outer Banks

Join the holiday spirit on the Outer Banks with our annual OBXmas Weekends. From Thanksgiving through Olde Christmas on January 6, immerse your family in over a month of joyful activities and celebrations. View our list of restaurant hours and openings for the winter season. Discover signature December events below. For the complete schedule, visit our events page or enjoy the Holiday Edition: OBX Daydream playlist.

OBXmas & New Year's Celebrations on the Outer Banks

• Winter Lights Spectacle: Tuesdays through Saturdays in December; Fridays and Saturdays in January (closed December 24, 25, 31, and January 1). Stroll enchanted garden paths at The Elizabethan Gardens, transformed into a winter wonderland with dazzling holiday lights, traditional décor, and magical displays.
• Annual Wright Brothers First Flight Celebration: December 17. The First Flight Society and National Park Service honor Wilbur and Orville Wright's historic achievement. Details forthcoming.
• First Flight Holiday Markets: Shop homegrown, homebaked, and handmade goods at Aviation Park on November 20 & 23, and December 7 & 18. Saturdays 10 AM-2 PM; Tuesdays 4-7 PM.
• Jingle Jog Christmas Run: December 18, starting oceanside in Southern Shores. Choose the 10K loop, 5K out-and-back, Little Elf ¼ Mile, or Jingle Jog 1 Mile. Features unique trophies, chip timing, event T-shirts, finisher medals, Santa photos, and post-race refreshments.
• Hang with Santa at Kitty Hawk Kites: November 26-27 in Nags Head. Free photos, elf fun, classic toys, and holiday sales to spread cheer.
• New Year's Eve Celebration in Manteo: December 31. Downtown streets close for live music, family activities, early ball drop, food vendors, open restaurants/bars, and North Carolina's largest fireworks show. Catch Pickin' on the Porch with Breaking Grass at Pioneer Theater from 10 PM.