#United States #Outer Banks #OBXmas #WinterLights #Dare County

Experience the Magic of OBXmas

The Outer Banks Visitors Bureau is thrilled to announce OBXmas, an enchanting holiday event that runs from Thanksgiving through New Year's Eve, inviting families and travelers to the scenic shores of North Carolina. According to Lee Nettles, the Executive Director, "The Outer Banks transforms during the holiday season, offering visitors a unique blend of coastal serenity and festive cheer." This annual celebration blends the region's rich maritime heritage with fun-filled seasonal festivities.

A Winter Wonderland

As part of OBXmas, visitors can look forward to the much-anticipated Kites with Lights event at Jockey's Ridge State Park in Nags Head, taking place on November 30 from 4 PM to 7 PM. This remarkable event features an impressive display of vibrantly lit kites soaring against the night sky above the tallest sand dune on the East Coast, collaboratively sponsored by Kitty Hawk Kites.

Additionally, the magic continues at the WinterLights event in The Elizabethan Gardens where guests can experience a wonderland of illuminated native plants, adorned historic gardens, and captivating holiday decorations that create a magical evening experience.

Manteo also shines as the historic waterfront becomes a festive gathering space. Here, attend the Town’s Christmas Tree Lighting alongside a Christmas Parade, where the spirit of the holiday season fills the air, while down on Hatteras Island, the Village Christmas Parade showcases coastal holiday traditions. Don’t miss The Duck Yuletide Celebration, which unites communities with its tree lighting and carol singing along the picturesque soundfront.

Dining and Entertainment

For food lovers, OBXmas offers special dining experiences which add a spirited touch to the holiday season. Families can enjoy the 12 Bars of Christmas pop-up restaurant concept and partake in the Misfit Island Bar Crawl—a unique way to savor local flavors while soaking in the festive atmosphere. As the year comes to a close, be sure to witness Manteo’s mesmerizing New Year's Eve fireworks display that adds a spectacular finish to the holiday festivities.

Engage with the Community

The holiday season is a perfect opportunity to give back to the Outer Banks community. Many organizations are looking for volunteers or support. For instance, you can aid the Outer Banks SPCA in decorating their facilities and looking after animals in need of permanent homes. Participate in seasonal food drives organized by the Beach Food Pantry, and engage with local museums and historic sites that welcome volunteers for special holiday programs. Organizations like the Network for Endangered Sea Turtles (N.E.S.T.) are also active during this time, continuing their crucial rescue efforts.

To discover how to incorporate purposeful community service into your holiday visit, check out www.outerbanks.org/voluntourism.

Explore and Shop Locally

Amidst the festivities, visitors can embark on holiday-themed tours at notable sites like the Wright Brothers National Memorial and Roanoke Island Festival Park, where the colonial ship, Elizabeth II, is adorned with festive lights. Don't forget to visit locally owned boutiques and art galleries to find the perfect coastal-inspired gift for your loved ones.

For more details on all holiday events and activities during the OBXmas season, visit OBXmas.org and to plan your winter getaway, head over to www.outerbanks.org.

About the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau

The Outer Banks Visitors Bureau is the official tourism authority for Dare County, encompassing towns such as Duck, Southern Shores, Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, Nags Head, Manteo, and the islands of Roanoke and Hatteras. The bureau emphasizes sustainable tourism while preserving the rich natural beauty and cultural heritage of North Carolina's cherished barrier islands.