OBXmas 2025: A Festive Holiday Celebration in the Outer Banks

Celebrate OBXmas 2025: A Coastal Holiday Adventure

The Outer Banks Visitors Bureau warmly invites everyone to take part in OBXmas 2025, a delightful holiday celebration designed to bring visitors and locals together for an unforgettable seasonal experience. This charming coastal destination is transforming into a festive wonderland with an impressive lineup of events and activities taking place from the sandy shores to the bustling towns amidst North Carolina's breathtaking landscapes.

A Time for Family and Friends

Lee Nettles, the Executive Director of the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau, highlights the significance of this event: "A lot of families meet on the OBX with our central location on the East Coast. The non-summer seasons of the Outer Banks are a gift for those in the know. Fantastic accommodation deals, no waiting at your favorite restaurants, and wide-open beaches full of shelling treasures by day and a blanket of Milky Way stars at night."

With its welcoming atmosphere, families and friends can gather in a magical setting, enjoying quality time together while exploring various festive offerings. From cozy cottages to spacious beach houses, the Outer Banks provides plenty of accommodation options to suit every visitor’s needs during the holiday season.

Festivities Across the Banks

Guests will be delighted to find that Manteo is alive with holiday cheer, hosting events like the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Parade, the Island Jingle at Roanoke Festival Park, and the enchanting WinterLights at the Elizabethan Gardens. Each gathering immerses participants in the true spirit of the festive season, showcasing the community's warmth and enthusiasm.

Not to be missed are the celebrations on Hatteras Island, including the Village Christmas Parade, the illuminating Holiday Trail of Lights, and the Shuck Hatteras Oyster Festival in Rodanthe, coinciding with the winter solstice festivities. For those in Duck, the Yuletide Celebration features Christmas tree lighting and delightful caroling, uniting residents and visitors alike.

In Kill Devil Hills, health enthusiasts can join other runners and walkers at the Holiday Hustle 5K and Elf Dash. This exciting event, held at Aviation Park, will culminate in a post-race celebration illuminated by festive lights, making it a perfect way to gather with loved ones while enjoying the season's excitement.

Celebrate Local Artistry

Shoppers will find joy in the Outer Banks-wide holiday markets that showcase the creativity of local artisans. These markets provide a chance to check off Christmas shopping lists while supporting the community’s talented makers and uphold the region's vibrant culture.

Diners, too, will find plenty to celebrate with the Misfit Bars of Christmas and the 12 Bars of Christmas, where various restaurants and bars whip up seasonal menus, host events, and adorn their spaces in festive decorations.

Moreover, holiday enthusiasts can attend the Christmas Past event at Island Farm, where guests walk through a re-creation of mid-19th century traditions. Additionally, the Twelfth Night activity day at Roanoke Island Festival Park offers scavenger hunts and engaging activities for families, ensuring that there is something fun for everyone.

Outdoor Exploration

For those craving outdoor experiences, a fee-free day at the Wright Brothers National Memorial is on December 17, coinciding with the celebration of the anniversary of the first flight. Visitors can bask in the beauty of the Outer Banks’ landscapes, enjoy pristine beaches, and witness the fascinating history that lies at the heart of this iconic site.

As the year comes to a close, families can celebrate the New Year at a kid-friendly hour on the Manteo waterfront. The night sky will sparkle with festive fireworks, completing a perfect day of holiday festivities.

Discover More

For a full schedule of events and activities, visit OBXmas.org and plan your festive getaway this holiday season. Experience the tranquility and joy of OBXmas 2025, where cherished memories and traditions come to life along North Carolina’s picturesque Outer Banks.