Celebrate the holidays Outer Banks style with twinkling lights, seaside parades, cozy markets, and classic coastal charm that make the season unforgettable.
Already planning the holidays? No matter where you choose to go, among the mountains of Tennessee or along the beaches of Florida and North Carolina, there's one thing that adds an extra layer of magic to your visit: experiencing local Christmas and holiday events.
If the Outer Banks of North Carolina is on your radar, go for it! This beautiful chain of barrier islands, packed with charming towns, hosts several holiday events that will fill your visit with the perfect spirit to wrap up the year on a joyful note.
Here's a sneak peek just for you:
- Hangin' with Santa & Kite Lights (Nags Head): Glowing kites, a solar-powered Christmas tree, and a beachside dose of holiday cheer.
- Winter Lights (Manteo): Elizabethan Gardens transformed into a radiant wonderland of twinkling bulbs and fireside warmth.
- Christmas Tree Lighting & Parade (Manteo): Music, Santa's sleigh, and small-town joy in downtown Manteo.
- Christmas on the North End (Manteo): Step back to the 1800s at Island Farm with historic décor and traditional crafts.
- First Flight Holiday Markets (Kill Devil Hills): Local artisans, baked goods, and handmade holiday gifts.
- Whalehead's Candlelight Christmas Tour (Corolla): A mansion aglow with garlands, piano carols, and vintage holiday magic.
- Jingle Jog Christmas Run (Southern Shores): A festive ocean-view race where Santa cheers you on.
- Mennicucci Family Christmas Light Display (Kill Devil Hills): Dazzling synchronized light show supporting the Beach Food Pantry.
Dreaming of an OBX getaway? Village Realty has been matching beach lovers with the perfect vacation homes for over 25 years. We offer an extensive selection of Outer Banks vacation rentals tailored to meet every need and desire. From stunning oceanfront properties and cozy condos to pet-friendly and newly listed rentals, our diverse portfolio ensures you find the perfect home away from home.
Craving more insider tips? As experts in everything OBX, our destination blog is loaded with fishing tips, the best outdoor adventures, can't-miss foodie finds, and more.
In this guide, I've rounded up the best Christmas and holiday events in the OBX for you to enjoy throughout the season.
Let's jump into the details!
1. HANGIN' WITH SANTA & KITE LIGHTS, Nags Head
Glowing kites and a solar-powered Christmas tree that twinkles under the coastal sky.
Kick off the season with a dash of beachside Christmas magic in Nags Head. This cheerful holiday event at Jockey's Ridge Crossing lights up the dunes with glowing kites and a solar-powered Christmas tree that twinkles under the coastal sky. The atmosphere is festive and relaxed; locals and visitors gather to sip hot cocoa, snap photos, and soak in the lights at one of the OBX's most joyful traditions. Admission is free, and the mood is contagious.
Highlights
- Holiday kites soaring over Jockey's Ridge.
- A glowing solar-powered Christmas tree.
- Complimentary refreshments and family-friendly fun.
- Free admission and easy access from most Nags Head rentals.
2. WINTER LIGHTS, Manteo
Wander through winding garden paths illuminated by thousands of twinkling bulbs.
Each winter, the Elizabethan Gardens in Manteo transform into a glowing wonderland of color and light. Wander through winding garden paths illuminated by thousands of twinkling bulbs, hear festive music floating through the air, and warm your hands by the fire on the Great Lawn. The event offers a cozy mix of nature, artistry, and holiday spirit, all wrapped up in one magical walk.
Highlights
- Spectacular walk-through light displays in the gardens.
- Seasonal music, crackling fires, and festive décor.
- Gift shop and plant sales for holiday treasures.
3. Christmas Tree Lighting & Christmas Parade, Manteo
Streets fill with music, laughter, glowing shop windows, and a vibrant countdown to the tree lighting.
Downtown Manteo is the go-to place for soaking up the holiday spirit thanks to the annual tree lighting and Christmas parade. The streets fill with music, laughter, and glowing shop windows as locals gather for the big countdown to the tree lighting. Later in the weekend, Santa rides through town in the cheerful parade, waving to families along the waterfront.
Highlights
- Festive tree lighting ceremony in the heart of Manteo.
- Live performances and music.
- Santa's arrival by sleigh.
- Evening shopping and waterfront strolls with twinkling boat lights.
- Family-friendly parade filled with small-town charm.
4. Christmas on the North End, Manteo
Step back in time and learn about the holiday traditions of the 1800s.
Step back in time at the Island Farm's "Christmas on the North End," where the holiday traditions of the 1800s come alive. Costumed interpreters share stories of how Roanoke Island families celebrated the season, complete with simple décor, handmade crafts, and hearty food demonstrations. It's a warm, nostalgic way to spend the day in one of Manteo's most historic spots.
Highlights
- Mid-19th-century holiday demonstrations and storytelling.
- Traditional decorations inside the farmhouse.
- Costumed interpreters and St. Nicholas photo ops.
5. First Flight Holiday Markets, Kill Devil Hills
Local makers, bakers, and artists under one roof for a true coastal holiday market experience.
If you love local finds and festive browsing, the First Flight Holiday Markets are a must. Held in Kill Devil Hills, this event gathers local makers, bakers, and artists under one roof for a true coastal holiday market experience. It's the perfect place to shop for thoughtful gifts while supporting the OBX community.
Highlights
- Handmade crafts, baked goods, and locally grown produce.
- Ideal for unique holiday shopping.
- Friendly, community-driven atmosphere.
- Perfect spot to pick up last-minute gifts.
6. Whalehead's Candlelight Christmas Tour, Corolla
Stroll through rooms decked with garlands and trees as carols float from a vintage Steinway piano.
The elegant Whalehead Mansion glows with timeless holiday beauty during its candlelight tours. Walk through rooms adorned with garlands, Christmas trees, and vintage ornaments as soft carols drift from an original Steinway piano. The delightful blend of history and tradition makes this a standout holiday experience on the northern OBX.
Highlights
- Evening candlelight tours through the historic Whalehead Mansion
- Live piano performances and carolers
- Lavish holiday decorations throughout the home
- Admission: $20 per person, reservations required
7. Jingle Jog Christmas Run, Southern Shores
Cheerful race winds through the quiet streets of Southern Shores.
Lace up your sneakers and get festive at the Jingle Jog Christmas Run. This cheerful race winds through the quiet streets of Southern Shores with scenic ocean views and plenty of holiday cheer. Runners of all ages can join, and Santa himself makes an appearance for post-race photos.
Highlights
- Race options: 5K/10K, 1 Mile Jingle Jog, or Little Elf ¼ Mile.
- Scenic oceanside routes through Southern Shores.
- Meet Santa and enjoy refreshments after the run.
8. The Mennicucci Family Christmas Light Display, Kill Devil Hills
A neighborhood tradition featuring thousands of sparkling lights synchronized to holiday music.
This neighborhood tradition brings the magic of the season to life with thousands of sparkling lights synchronized to holiday music. Located at 206 Clamshell Drive in Kill Devil Hills, the display shines nightly and fills the air with festive tunes via local radio. Instead of tickets, the family collects donations for the Beach Food Pantry, a heartwarming touch to a glowing community favorite.
Highlights
- Synchronized light-and-music show tuned to 107.9 FM.
- Runs nightly at dusk until around 9 p.m.
- Free event supporting the Beach Food Pantry.
- A cheerful, feel-good stop for holiday nights in Kill Devil Hills.
Extra Tips on How to Make the Most of the Holiday Season in the OBX
- Catch a sunset by the dunes. Winter skies in the Outer Banks turn fiery orange and pink, and the cooler air makes those moments even more magical.
- Pack cozy layers. The ocean breeze can get chilly in December, especially around dusk and dawn.
- Try local seafood in season. Winter oysters and fresh crab are staples this time of year; order them at local favorites like I Got Your Crabs or Blue Water Grill.
- Book early for popular tours. Candlelight walks and holiday light events tend to sell out quickly.
- Support local makers. Hit the holiday markets and shops in Manteo or Duck for handmade ornaments, pottery, and candles.
- Take a quiet beach walk. The winter months are peaceful, and you might have stretches of shoreline all to yourself.
- Bring a camera. Between glowing lights, festive parades, and sparkling dunes, every corner of the OBX becomes photo-worthy.
- Warm up with local coffee. Waveriders Coffee and Front Porch Café are cozy stops after chilly strolls.
Experience the Best of the Outer Banks
The secret to a great OBX getaway? Finding the perfect place to stay. With Village Realty OBX, you'll have your pick of vacation rentals that keep you close to the beach, the fun, and everything in between.
Our rentals range from oceanfront homes with stunning views to cozy cottages perfect for families or couples. Many properties include amenities like private pools, hot tubs, and fully equipped kitchens, ensuring your stay is as relaxing as it is adventurous.
Booking with Village Realty means you can focus on enjoying everything this North Carolina treasure has to offer while resting easy in a home tailored to your needs. Start your journey by choosing the perfect rental for your outdoor getaway today!