Outer Banks Annual Events - Outdoor & Nature

If you’re a windsurfing fiend or have a serious appreciation for the sport, the annual Hatteras Wave Jam is an Outer Banks event that shouldn’t be missed. The Wave Jam is part of the U.S. East Coast Windsurfing Competition and Tour featuring the top national and international windsurfers. There are all different levels of competition to add variety to the event. Hatteras is one of the premiere windsurfing spots on the East Coast thanks to the wind and water conditions on the barrier islands. This advantageous environment makes Hatteras windsurfing an awesome sport for athletes and spectators alike. The Outer Banks is proud to host this week-long annual event where you can watch the pros put their talent to the test. For more information or questions, get in touch through the event's Facebook page.

Ocracoke celebrates its sweetest tradition in early August with the annual Ocracoke Fig Festival sponsored by Ocracoke Preservation Society. Local vendors provide fresh figs, fig preserves, local cookbooks and other fig-tastic items. Learn about Ocracoke’s fig history and culture and bring the kids for old-fashioned crafts and games. The showpiece of the Fig Festival is the Fig Cake Bake-Off on Saturday, but look for events all weekend long.

The Ocrafolk Festival is one of the most beloved Outer Banks annual events and traditions. On the first weekend in June, storytellers, musicians and artists bring themselves and their trades to Ocracoke Island for a three-day festival. You can shop directly from artisans and crafters, watch art demonstrations, listen to established and up-and-coming musicians and be absorbed by thrilling tales about Ocracoke Island and North Carolina. Ocrafolk Festival’s music is live and features regional and national bands and solo musicians. As you’re walking around the village during the festival, you can always hear banjos, fiddles, guitars or voices filling the air. Proceeds from Ocrafolk Festival ticket sales support critical student and community programs.

Kitty Hawk Surf Company's annual Outer Banks Kayak Fishing Tournament is held in mid-September. This is a great way to explore the scenic waterways of the Outer Banks. Where else can you gently float near a heron while also reeling in a fish? After garnering your bounty of fish, head back to land to enjoy a cookout and awards ceremony. The registration fee can be paid online or at any of the four Kitty Hawk Surf Company shop locations along the Outer Banks.

It’s time to put your physical prowess to the test with one of Outer Banks athletes’ most anticipated events – the Outer Banks Triathlon. Whether you’re an individual athlete, part of a relay team or even a cheering spectator, this two-day event on Roanoke Island brings excitement and fitness inspiration to everyone involved. If you’re participating, get ready to swim in the Old Swimming Hole, bike through scenic Mashoes and run around the north end of Roanoke Island. It’s fun for people of all athletic abilities. Spectators and volunteers are always welcome – after all, where would these participants be without the much-needed cheers and encouragement? Get training and join in the Sprint, Olympic or Half distances. The Triathlon is held in mid-September. For information go to Outer Banks Sporting Events website.