With historic sites reopening and more events on the calendar, spring break is a wonderful time to visit the Outer Banks. Less crowds to contend with means you can explore at your own pace and truly appreciate this area’s natural beauty. Stay with us this spring and be sure to add some of the following to your itinerary.
Sheep Shearing & Opening Day at Island Farm
Rescheduled for March 30, 9am-3pm
The arrival of spring means it's time to shear the sheep at Island Farm, a living history farmstead on Roanoke Island. This annual event allows visitors to see the process up-close, which is done by hand, just as it was in the mid-19th century. Other activities include wagon rides, buttermaking, wool bracelet crafts and more. Admission is $10; children 3 and under are admitted free.
Fly into Spring & Easter Eggstravaganza
March 29 & 30, 10:30am-1:15pm
Join Kitty Hawk Kites at Jockey’s Ridge Landing in Nags Head for two days of high-flying fun. With an egg hunt (fees apply), visits with the Easter bunny, and massive kites soaring above the sandy peaks of Jockey's Ridge (10am-4pm on Friday), it's sure to be a fun time with family.
Eastertide in the Gardens
March 30, 10am-2pm
Hop over to the Elizabethan Gardens on Roanoke Island for this springtime tradition. You'll be surrounded by blooms as you follow the garden paths to visit designated "egg stations" before enjoying contests, games and vendors on the Great Lawn. Advance ticket purchase is recommended.
Turtle-tastic Egg Hunt
Rescheduled for March 30, 10-11:30am
The North Carolina Aquarium offers a twist on your traditional egg hunt. Children ages 3-7 will enjoy learning about turtles, meeting an animal ambassador, and decorating a bag before searching the grounds for hidden eggs. Fees apply.
Currituck Beach Lighthouse Free Climb Day
March 23, 9am-5pm
Climb up the Currituck Beach Lighthouse for free on the first day of their 2024 season. Afterwards, explore the grounds of Historic Corolla Park and take in the beautiful soundfront views.
Opening Day at the Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station
March 18, 10am-5pm
Learn about the early history of the US Life-Saving Service/US Coast Guard at this maritime site in Rodanthe. Celebrating their 150th Anniversary Season in 2024, the Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station is expected to host a series of events and presentations throughout the year to honor this legacy.
Books and Brews
March 12, 6-8:30pm
Join Downtown Books from Manteo for a night of page-turning fun at Waveriders Coffee, Deli & Market. Following last year's successful event, this book fair for grownups will feature all sorts of bookish merch, along with raffle prizes and a special menu.
Dowdy Park Markets
March 9 & April 13, 9am-Noon
Browse a selection of offerings from local artisans and vendors in the heart of Nags Head at Dowdy Park. With open spaces and an extensive playground, there's plenty of room to enjoy that springtime sunshine, too.
First Friday in Manteo
April 5, 6-8pm
Manteo magic can be felt up and down the sidewalks during First Friday, a family-friendly event along the beautiful downtown waterfront. Savor restaurant specials, relax to the sounds of live music, and explore local art galleries and shops.
Soundside Spring Market
March 30, 12-4pm
Spring is in the air at the Soundside Event Site in Nags Head. Walk off some of those winter blues while picking up something from your favorite merchant or discover a new local small business that has just what you were looking for.
Spring Open House at the Farm
April 20, 10am-2pm
Join the Corolla Wild Horse Fund in Grandy for their Spring Open House, where you can meet rescued Banker horses during a walking tour of the farm.