Outer Banks Annual Events - Outdoor & Nature

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.

The annual Pirates Cove Billfish Tournament, based out of Pirate's Cove Marina in Manteo, is one of the most anticipated fishing tournaments on the Outer Banks. It’s a week of fishing, friends and fun – in fact, it’s like a festival and fishing tournament combined. There will be food, beverages, live music and plenty of fishing, everything that you could possibly need. You’ll start the week with a party to meet the competitors and socialize, spend the next several days on the water and come back at the end of each day for a party. It’s pure fun, and it helps fund charitable organizations. For more information or to register, go to www.pcbgt.com.

Come out to Pirate’s Cove Marina and spend a pleasant summer day engaged in a family-friendly fishing tournament. The Small Fry Tournament is one of the Outer Banks' only annual fishing tournaments that’s just for kids. There are two age groups: 3 to 8 and 9 to 15. The participants spend the day putting their fishing skills to the test, and the event concludes with awards being presented for the biggest catches from each age group. It’s a great chance to expose children to competitive fishing as well as meet others their own age. This Outer Banks event is usually held in late June. For information check the website.

These two races helped put the Outer Banks on the map as an athlete’s paradise! The varying terrain, mild weather and scenic route attract top runners every year. But there’s more to it than just a marathon and half-marathon – the guest speakers, clinics, expo, family activities, surrounding events and more have helped shape this into one of the most popular running events in North Carolina. Participants run through the village of Kitty Hawk, historic Kill Devil Hills, the maritime forest in Nags Head, over a bridge and into the charming town of Manteo. It’s an up-close way to do a little sightseeing on the Outer Banks. After crossing the finish line, athletes can check out all the hotspots they ran past, including restaurants, attractions and the beach, and enjoy beer, food, live bands, medal ceremonies and fun! These races, held on Veterans Day weekend, benefit Dare Education Foundation and Outer Banks Relief Foundation.

Up for a sophisticated evening activity? Check out Whalehead Wednesdays Wine and Beer Festivals happening from June through the end of September. Every Wednesday evening during the summer months you can sample a variety of wines and beer along with fruit and cheese while you watch the sun set over the Currituck Sound. Different solo artists and bands provide live music every week, so you’ll get a taste of local talent in addition to the wine and beer. Wine is provided by Sanctuary Vineyards, Whalehead Gallery, Vineyards on the Scuppernong and Corolla Wine, Cigar and Gourmet. There'll also be a beer tasting, featuring samples from the Weeping Radish Brewery and Northern Outer Banks Brewing Company. This Outer Banks event is family friendly with activities that children can enjoy too. Admission includes a tasting glass, and nondrinkers are admitted free.