Annual Outer Banks Events

Give thanks for the enthusiastic and supportive local running community that’s made possible by the Outer Banks Running Club. The Outer Banks Running Club’s main fundraiser, the OBX Gobble 5K and Fun Run, is an annual Thanksgiving event that the entire family is invited to enjoy. The courses take participants through Nags Head, making it hard not to feel thankful for the environment’s natural beauty. This family friendly event is open to all runners, joggers and walkers. Runners who want to include younger participants with them are encouraged to bring baby strollers, jogging strollers and wagons. Runners who aren’t enticed by the length of the 5K can opt for the Fun Run, which has a 9/10 mile course. All who finish the race receive a finisher’s award. This annual event is held on Thanksgiving morning with the 5K first, followed by the Fun Run. Go to the Outer Banks Running Club’s website to register in advance.

It’s no secret that some of the world’s tastiest shrimp are found in Outer Banks restaurants. Have you ever wondered where you can find the cream of the crop when it comes to local shrimp dishes? Many of us have, and each year we turn to the Outer Banks Shrimp Cookoff to see which restaurants’ shrimp dishes stand out from the others. Top chefs from local restaurants bring their culinary expertise to Ocean Boulevard Bistro and Martini Bar, and they battle for the title of best shrimp on the beach. The best part is that you get to judge the contenders. Sample the gourmet shrimp creations and vote for your favorite. There’s also the opportunity to leave with goodies from the silent auction and the raffle, made of items and offers donated by local businesses and organizations. The event ends with an awards ceremony determining the Chef’s Choice, Judge’s Choice and People’s Choice for the dishes.

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.

Soon-to-be-wed couples have a great time at this annual Outer Banks event that includes a traditional wedding expo as well as a wedding tour. Every year hundreds of Outer Banks wedding vendors present their wares and services to help attendees create the wedding ceremonies of their dreams. On the tour, couples will have the opportunity to visit and tour some of the East Coast’s most popular wedding venues, ranging from picturesque beaches to woodsy vineyards. You’ll also receive discounts to local restaurants, hotels and other businesses that will make your special day that much better. The Outer Banks Wedding Weekend and Expo is held at First Flight High School and Middle School. Be sure to enter for a chance to win the Outer Banks Dream Wedding and Dream Honeymoon giveaways!

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.