Outer Banks Annual Events — January

The Elizabethan Gardens transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. Walk outside along the whimsical path lit by Christmas lights and cheery holiday characters, and you’ll pull your coat a little tighter around you because there’s no way you’re going inside yet. This is your chance to revel in the beauty of the holiday season. The gardens are embellished with thousands of twinkling lights, topiaries, displays and more. Decorations in the gardens range from traditional to alternative, and they all work together to create a magical experience. In the center of all the decorations you’ll find a crackling open-air fire on the Great Lawn, perfect for warming your hands and maybe roasting a marshmallow. Special events are held throughout the duration of WinterLights, with offerings such as Dinner with Santa and Thank You Notes to Santa. In late November and early December, WinterLights is held Tuesday through Saturday nights from 6 to 9 p.m. In January it's held on Friday and Saturday nights from 6 to 9 p.m. See the website for more information.