Dare A250: Celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary in Dare County
In 2026, Dare County will proudly join communities across the nation to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Known as the Land of Beginnings, Dare County has played an outsized role in the American story — from early English exploration and settlement attempts to the first powered flight and lifesaving efforts along the Outer Banks. The Dare A250 initiative highlights these stories and invites residents and visitors to explore the people, places, and heritage that helped shape the United States.
The celebration is anchored by a series of events, historic site visits, and educational opportunities throughout the year, with the Dare A250 Passport Program offering a fun, self-guided way to discover key locations across the county
Since 1968, our vacation rental company has had the privilege of welcoming visitors to the Outer Banks of North Carolina. We are thrilled to be a sponsor of the Dare America 250 events.
Beginning January 5, 2026, participants can visit 13 designated sites of historical and cultural significance, scan QR codes, and collect digital “stamps” as part of the Dare A250 Passport Program. This interactive exploration celebrates Dare County’s contributions to American history and connects visitors to stories that range from early colonization to maritime heritage and aviation innovation.
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Southern Shores Flat Tops — A landscape feature tied to early coastal history.
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Icarus Monument to Flight (Kitty Hawk) — Honors the spirit of flight and ingenuity.
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Wright Brothers National Memorial (Kill Devil Hills) — The site of the first powered flight.
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Jennette’s Pier (Nags Head) — Historic fishing pier and community landmark.
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Fort Raleigh Historic Site (Manteo) — Preserves the story of early English settlement attempts.
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Island Farm (Manteo) — A mid-19th-century living history site showing rural life.
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Pea Island Cookhouse Museum (Manteo) — Highlights African American lifesaving and maritime history.
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Bethany Church (Wanchese) — Historic community church with deep local roots.
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Bodie Island Lighthouse (Nags Head) — Classic Outer Banks lighthouse with historic maritime significance.
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Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station (Rodanthe) — One of the most complete U.S. Life-Saving Service stations remaining.
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Jockey’s Ridge State Park (Nags Head) — Home to the tallest natural sand dune on the East Coast.
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Buffalo City (Manns Harbor) — A vanished mill town offering a window into Dare County’s industrial past.
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Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum (Hatteras) — Maritime museum honoring shipwreck history and seafaring life.
Each site tells a unique part of the region’s story and reflects how Dare County helped shape broader American history.
Dare County’s A250 celebrations feature a diverse range of community-wide events that connect residents and visitors to the history, culture, music, and patriotic commemoration. Below are some confirmed and featured gatherings (dates subject to update as the official calendar expands.
🍀 Kelly’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade — March 15, 2026 (Nags Head)
The 35th Annual Kelly’s St. Patrick’s Parade will officially kick off Dare A250 celebrations with an A250-themed float, and patriotic participation is encouraged.
🛩️ Dare A250 Faire — April 18, 2026 (Wright Brothers National Memorial)
A free, full-day patriotic festival celebrating Life, Liberty, and Liftoff in the Land of Beginnings. The event will feature live music, family-friendly activities, historical storytelling, food, local vendors, and entertainment performances.
🎆 4th of July Celebrations — July 3–4, 2026 (Across Dare County)
Independence Day activities will include community parades, fireworks, and special programs at historic locations like Island Farm and downtown Manteo, honoring America’s birthday during the A250 year.
More events — including festivals, speeches, performances, exhibits, and community heritage programs — will be continually added to the official Dare A250 calendar at DareA250.org/events.
