Join the OBX Running Company for their annual 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run at the historic Whalehead Club in Corolla. Open to all ages and abilities, this festive Thanksgiving morning event includes a Fun Run at 8:00 AM and a 5K at 8:15 AM, followed by snacks and an awards ceremony. All runners get a t-shirt, finisher medal, and a chance to win age group awards. Bring canned goods to help support the local food bank.
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Thanksgiving Events on the Outer Banks
Spending Thanksgiving on the Outer Banks, a string of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina, can be a unique and enjoyable experience for several reasons:
Scenic Beauty
The Outer Banks offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, stunning sunrises, and sunsets, and the opportunity to enjoy picturesque beaches and sand dunes. The natural beauty of the area can make for a peaceful and relaxing Thanksgiving getaway.
Mild Weather
During Thanksgiving, the Outer Banks typically experiences milder temperatures compared to many other parts of the country. This can allow for outdoor activities such as beach walks, hiking, or even outdoor dining, providing a refreshing change of pace from colder climates.
Outdoor Activities
The Outer Banks offer a range of outdoor activities, including fishing, kayaking, surfing, and exploring the various national and state parks. Families and friends can enjoy these activities together, creating memorable Thanksgiving experiences.
Local Cuisine
The Outer Banks is known for its fresh seafood and local delicacies. During Thanksgiving, you can enjoy a unique blend of traditional Thanksgiving meals and local seafood dishes, providing a distinctive culinary experience.
Relaxing Environment
The Outer Banks is known for its laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those looking to unwind and spend quality time with friends and family during the holiday season.
Local Holiday Events
Winter Lights at the Elizabethan GardensA holiday tradition not to be missed! Stroll along illuminated garden walks and discover the joy of the season with holiday lights that transform the ten-acre gardens into an enchanted wonderland. The radiant glow, holiday décor, and a crackling open-air fire, add to the festive atmosphere. Seasonal plants and holiday gifts will be available in the Gift Shop and Nursery. Check schedule for designated nights of live entertainment.
First Flight Holiday Markets
Kick off your holiday shopping at the First Flight Holiday Markets! Located in Aviation Park, this festive market features nearly 50 local vendors showcasing everything from handmade crafts to delicious baked goods. Enjoy the lively atmosphere with food trucks and live music. It's a great place to find unique gifts while supporting our local community!
The Misfits Bar Crawl
Embrace the holiday spirit with the Misfits Bar Crawl! From late November through New Year's Day, enjoy festive drinks and themed parties at local bars across the Outer Banks. Dress up, make new friends, and celebrate the season in style!
Garden to Hearth
Visitors will learn the various ways that Roanoke Island families prepared for the winter months on Roanoke Island in the 1850s. Join historic interpreters as they cook over the hearth, preserve vegetables, smoke mullet in the smokehouse, make candles, and explore waterfowling traditions. Wagon rides will also be available. Freshly harvested produce (including sweet potatoes and fall greens) will be available for purchase as well.
Tipsy Turkey Beer Mile
Join the Brewing Station crew for a Thanksgiving-themed beer mile.
Backyard party, chip timing, and T-shirt included. This is an adult 21 and over-only social run. Prizes to the fastest male and female overall. Wear your Holiday finest, and costume contest judging for the most creative. Check out more Turkey Trots down below!
The 12 Bars of Christmas
Get ready to celebrate the season with The 12 Bars of Christmas! This holiday bar crawl features themed pop-up bars around the Outer Banks, each offering festive drinks and seasonal surprises. Gather your friends, wear your favorite holiday attire, and enjoy a month full of fun and cheer!
The Ocracoke Parade of BoatsRing in the holidays island-style with this seasonal parade that takes place on the waters that surround Ocracoke village. The Ocracoke Parade of Boats is a celebration of life on the water, and this annual procession of ships of all shapes and sizes is sure to make anyone fall in love with the coastal scene and community that calls Ocracoke Island home.
Hangin' with Santa
Share all your Christmas wishes and have your picture taken with Santa at Kitty Hawk Kites at Jockey's Ridge Crossing in Nags Head. Have some fun with Santa's elves and try out classic toys straight from the workshop on the second floor of Kitty Hawk Kites!
Hatteras Island Holiday Art & Craft Show
Get into the holiday spirit while perusing a far-reaching range of arts and crafts that are delightfully one-of-a-kind with this seasonal event that always attracts locals and visiting shoppers alike. The Hatteras Island Arts and Craft Guild Holiday Show showcases a wide variety of talented regional artists and craftsmen and is a favorite destination for holiday shoppers of all tastes who love to find those perfect coastal gifts and treasures.
Dowdy Park Holiday Farmers MarketFind the perfect holiday gifts at Dowdy Park's Holiday Farmers Market! From fresh produce to handcrafted treasures, there's something for everyone. Enjoy the festive atmosphere with live music, and get a head start on your holiday shopping while supporting local vendors. It's a community favorite you won't want to miss!
Kites with LightsBe sure to make it out for a light display like no other. Kites with Lights, at Jockey's Ridge State Park, features large 19-to-30-foot kites decked out in the spirit of the holiday season! Enjoy the lighting of the Jockey's Ridge State Park Solar Christmas tree out on the dunes directly across from Jockey's Ridge Crossing. Warm beverages and baked goods are available across the street at Jockey's Ridge Crossing. All donations benefit the Friends of Jockey's Ridge.
Dowdy Park Tree Lighting & Santa
Celebrate the magic of the season at the Dowdy Park Tree Lighting! Experience an enchanting evening filled with holiday music, twinkling lights, and a special visit from Santa. Perfect for families, this event brings holiday joy to all ages and creates lasting memories under the stars.
Outer Banks Turkey Trots
Tipsy Turkey Beer Mile
Kill Devil Hills
Start your Thanksgiving celebrations with the Tipsy Turkey Beer Mile, a fun mix of fitness and brews. Held the day before Thanksgiving, this drink-and-run event is perfect for beer lovers and casual runners looking to kick off the holiday weekend with a laugh.
Surfin' Turkey 5K and Puppy Drum Run
Hatteras
Kick off your Turkey Day with the Surfin' Turkey 5K and Puppy Drum Run, a fun and fast-paced event in the heart of Hatteras Village. Hosted by the Hatteras Island Youth Education Fund, it's a great way to support a local cause while enjoying a scenic Thanksgiving morning run.
Duck Turkey Trot 5K
Duck
Join the Town of Duck for a fun and festive Turkey Trot 5K at 9:00 AM, starting at Scarborough Faire. Open to runners, walkers, families, and strollers, this scenic course ends with music, refreshments, and post-race fun. Costumes are encouraged, with prizes for top finishers and best holiday outfits.
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OBX Go Far Turkey Trot 5K
Southern Shores
Start your Thanksgiving morning with the 16th annual OBX Turkey Trot in Southern Shores. This family-friendly 5K and kids' fun run supports OBX GO FAR, a local non-profit helping kids build healthy habits. Enjoy pancakes, raffles, medals, and Thanksgiving pies for top runners in this festive Outer Banks tradition.
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OBX Running Company Thanksgiving Day 5K
Corolla
Corolla
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