Outer Banks Annual Events - Outdoor & Nature

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.

Think you’re pretty brave? Put it to the ultimate test with the Number 1 haunted attraction on the Outer Banks. The Wicked Woods Haunted Trail is 20-minute trek of terror in the depths of the Outer Banks darkest woods in remote East Lake. Don’t bother trying to conquer old fears in future visits – each year’s trail embraces a different theme with new monsters, new attractions and new nightmares.

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.

Wave Riding Vehicles supports one of the East Coast’s most popular surfing competitions each year. The event is held at Jennette’s Pier, which makes an excellent vantage point for watching the surfers out in the water. WRV Outer Banks Pro attracts professional surfers from all over the globe, so you’ll get to see a variety of talent. All ages are welcome at this Outer Banks event that’s usually held the last weekend in August and possibly runs into September.