Ultimate Outer Banks Vacation Guide: Unveiling Hidden Gems

Welcome to the ultimate Outer Banks vacation guide, brought to you by Joe Lamb Jr. and Associates. If you’re seeking an unforgettable beach getaway, you’ve come to the right place. Explore the hidden gems, stunning landscapes, and abundant natural wonders that make the Outer Banks a dream destination. Let us be your guide as we uncover the best-kept secrets of this coastal paradise.

Uncovering the Charms of Corolla

From pristine beaches to iconic wild horses, Corolla is a family-friendly town that offers a picturesque escape from the everyday. Immerse yourself in the beauty of its coastline and take a wild horse tour to witness these majestic creatures up close. Remember to visit the historic Currituck Beach Lighthouse for panoramic views that will take your breath away.

Embracing the Coastal Magic of Duck

Duck, with its laid-back atmosphere and coastal village vibes, it is the perfect place to unwind and soak in the charm of the Outer Banks. Discover outdoor adventures like kayaking on the Currituck Sound or simply relaxing on the beach. Indulge in a culinary journey at the waterfront restaurants and explore the unique boutiques for a delightful shopping experience.

Thrills and History in Kill Devil Hills and Nags Head

For a mix of excitement and history, Kill Devil Hills and Nags Head have it all. Explore the Wright Brothers National Memorial and pay tribute to the birthplace of aviation. Experience the thrill of water sports, sandboarding at Jockey’s Ridge State Park, or a horseback ride during a mesmerizing sunset along the shoreline.

Escaping to Tranquility on Hatteras Island

Hatteras Island beckons with its uncrowded beaches and natural beauty. This secluded paradise is a haven for nature enthusiasts and fishing enthusiasts alike. Embark on a fishing charter, climb the iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse for panoramic views, or unwind on the pristine shores, letting the sound of crashing waves soothe your soul.

Discovering Ocracoke Island’s Maritime History

To truly escape it all, Ocracoke Island is a must-visit. Accessible only by ferry or private boat, this hidden gem offers a peaceful retreat. Explore the island on a bike, visit the historic Ocracoke Island Lighthouse, and dive into the rich maritime history at the Ocracoke Preservation Society Museum.

With breathtaking beaches, rich history, and unspoiled natural wonders, the Outer Banks is a coastal paradise that promises an unforgettable vacation. From the wild horses of Corolla to the tranquil shores of Ocracoke Island, each town offers a unique experience. Let Joe Lamb Jr. and Associates be your trusted guide as you plan your dream vacation to the Outer Banks. Pack your bags, embrace adventure, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime. Start your journey today!

Outer Banks Rainy Day Guide

The Outer Banks is a beautiful destination for outdoor activities and sunshine-filled days. But what do you do when the weather doesn’t cooperate and you’re faced with a rainy day? Don’t worry, there are still plenty of fun and interesting things to do in the Outer Banks, even when it’s raining. Don’t let a little rain ruin your vacation! Our Rainy Day Guide has plenty of fun and interesting activities to keep you entertained in this beautiful coastal region, no matter the weather.

Visit a Museum

The Outer Banks is home to several museums that offer a glimpse into the area’s history and culture. The Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum in Hatteras is a must-visit for anyone interested in the region’s maritime history. The Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills is another great option for learning about the Wright Brothers’ first flight and their impact on aviation.

Explore Indoor Attractions

In addition to museums, the Outer Banks has several indoor attractions that are perfect for a rainy day. The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island is a popular spot for families and features exhibits on local marine life. The Outer Banks Mall in Nags Head is another option for those looking to do some shopping or catch a movie at the local cinema.

Indulge in Local Cuisine

What better way to spend a rainy day than indulging in some delicious local cuisine? The Outer Banks is known for its fresh seafood and southern-style comfort food. Check out some of the area’s best restaurants and try out a new dish or two.

Relax at a Spa

Finally, rainy days are the perfect opportunity to treat yourself to a day of relaxation at a local spa. The Sanderling Resort and Spa in Duck and the Aqua Spa in Duck are both great options for a day of pampering.

While rainy days in the Outer Banks may not be what you had in mind, there are still plenty of activities and attractions to keep you entertained. Don’t let a little rain dampen your spirits – embrace the opportunity to explore and discover something new.

LIVE Music This Summer In The OBX

The Outer Banks is a Small Town with Big Charm

Trees in the shape of a guitar in fron of a setting sun.

Hitting the Roads In Search of Live Music In The OBX

Dream, explore, and discover culture & tourism while listening to LIVE music in the Outer Banks all Summer long!

When the weather warms up, the OBX live music scene comes out of hibernation. From small acoustic events at your local brewery or club to unique festivals and bigger events and concerts featuring nationally touring groups, there is something for everyone’s musical preferences.

Bars, Pubs, and Piers

a microphone in a mic stand.

There are so many late-night activities on the Outer Banks that it’s difficult to decide what to do! 

Are you up for some fun dancing or bar hopping? 

For thumping sounds and dancing, enjoy the Outer Banks nightlife when staying in Kill Devil Hills.  The Backyard Venue at the Outer Banks Brewing Station has music throughout the week and the vibe is different every time. Alternatively, you can keep things low-key by listening to acoustic performers sing in some eclectic small bars all around the OBX. Bands with local and even national acclaim can be found touring around eateries, pubs, and other outside venues so keep checking in for some of your favorites during this beach season.

Throughout the summer, keep an eye out all along the Outer Banks for live music events that bring in the big-name country and bluegrass performers, as well as local musicians who perform regularly at some of the most unique hidden gems. For the more daring, karaoke evenings on the Outer Banks are a great way to sing your unique anthem.  It’s difficult to spend an entire night at one spot on the Outer Banks because there are so many possibilities.

You can find live music around the piers throughout the week. Visit Capt. Andy’s Oceanfront Tiki Bar and Grill at the Nags Head Pier for a night full of live music and entertainment! Another great spot for music a few nights a week is FISH HEADS on the Outer Banks Fishing Pier. (Some foodie travelers might just find out how to eat like a local as well!)

Public Fishing Piers In The Outer Banks Featuring Live Music

  • Kitty Hawk Pier
  • Avalon Fishing Pier
  • Outer Banks Fishing Pier
  • Nags Head Fishing Pier
  • Jennette’s Pier

OBX Festivals & Events

A man and woman enjoying music at an outdoor concert.

Outdoor junkies plan to attend one of the area’s popular, family-friendly festivals on your next visit to take your Outer Banks vacation to another level. With so many festivities and special events taking place throughout the year, there’s a high chance you’ll be able to attend one of the festivals that make the Outer Banks so enjoyable. 

Here are a few of the best in the area:

Under the Oaks Arts Festival

June 22nd & 23rd, 2021 | Historic Corolla Park

The Under the Oaks Arts Festival, held on the grounds of the Whalehead in Historic Corolla, features a brilliant assortment of vibrant artworks and crafts. Visitors may expect to find paintings and prints, photography, pottery, jewelry, woodworks, and much more at this popular event, which brings together a mix of creative artists. This is a fantastic opportunity to pick up some one-of-a-kind local treasures.

Molasses Creek will perform live music at the Festival on Wednesday, June 23rd from 1 to 3 p.m.

Corolla Cork & Craft (fka Whalehead Wednesday)

June 16 – September 8th. Every Wednesday | Whalehead Historic Corolla

Every Wednesday, join the Currituck County Department of Travel & Tourism for local wine & beer tastings and handpicked craft vendors in Historic Corolla Park’s magnificent and serene environment. With your $15 General Admission ticket, you’ll get a souvenir wine glass, a complimentary tour of Historic Whalehead, and tastings of Sanctuary Vineyards’ featured local wines and beer from the Weeping Radish Brewery, North Carolina’s oldest microbrewery…all while listening to live music.

If you want to buy a ticket, please bring a photo ID with you.

The Duck Jazz Festival 

October 9-10, 2021 | Duck Town Park

On Columbus Day weekend, the Town of Duck invites jazz to Duck Town Park. This event is open to the public and is not ticketed. Food and drinks can be purchased from local establishments, and chairs can be rented. Food, coolers, chairs, blankets, and well-behaved dogs are also welcome. The event does not allow beach umbrellas or tents. Rain or shine, the Duck Jazz Festival takes place. 

Each year, we hope that visitors would prolong their stay on the Outer Banks to take advantage of jazz-themed events and promotions at Duck businesses and everywhere else on the OBX. *** (not technically summer but still a fun event)

As you can see from just a few examples above there are music festival events ranging from rock to jazz and bluegrass all summer long. 

Concerts In The Outer Banks This Summer

A pov shot from a concert crowd.

Are you a culture chaser looking for a favorite artist that you have seen in the OBX before on this trip? Check out some of these concerts going on this summer. The Outer Banks has so much to offer, and the events calendar is always filled! This summer, join in the fun!

Joint Operation

July 2, 2021 | Secret Island Tavern, Kill Devil Hills NC

The Baltimore, Maryland-based rock band Joint Operation is a force to be reckoned with. This energetic five-piece has created a name for itself on the East Coast and in the Midwest. Joint Operation boasts a lineup that includes some of the genre’s top names. Hello, and welcome to the rock ‘n’ roll circus!

Sublime with Rome, Dirty Heads, special guest Hirie

July 19, 2021 | Roanoke Island Festival Park, Manteo NC

Lead singer/guitarist Rome Ramirez, bassist Eric Wilson, and drummer Carlos Verdugo founded Sublime With Rome in 2010. The band is presently on tour in support of their critically acclaimed 2019 album BLESSINGS, with hits WICKED HEART and LIGHT ON gaining traction on alternative radio.

Zoso

August 5, 2021 | Klub Kora, Avon NC

The Ultimate Led Zeppelin Experience was founded in 1995 with the goal of providing the most authentic and enthralling Led Zeppelin experience since the original. It’s much more than just an homage for Zoso. It’s about reliving a musical epoch. In terms of energy, tight-wound talent, and honesty, Zoso epitomizes Page, Plant, Bonham, and Jones.

Michael Franti & Spearhead

August 18, 2021 | Roanoke Island Festival Park, Manteo NC

Michael Franti is a world-renowned musician, humanitarian, activist, and award-winning filmmaker known for his high-octane live performances, inspirational music, commitment to health and wellbeing, global philanthropic initiatives, and belief in the power of optimism. Franti has three Billboard No. 1 singles in his multi-decade career.

Carbon Leaf 

August 20 & 21, 2021 | Koru Village & Spa, Avon NC

Since the band’s early touring days, Carbon Leaf has played some legendary spots down on the Outer Banks of North Carolina, including beach gigs dating back to 1997. They haven’t played down here in a few years, and the band is beyond thrilled to be back! They are going to make a weekend of it, and they would love for you to join them. This concert is a great fit for weekend travelers and memory makers planning for memories to last a lifetime!

Go Have Some Fun & Book Your OBX Stay Now!

Some Outer Banks events are family-friendly, while others are exclusively open to people over the age of 21, so double-check the details before deciding on an evening activity. Every season also gives its unique take on Outer Banks nightlife. Take a look at the options above and decide what you want to do. Some bucket listers could be tempted to do everything!

Joe Lamb Jr. & Associates is one of the most trusted vacation rental managers in the local area by growing into a market leader in the Vacation Rental and Sales Industry. Joe Lamb Jr. and his family have played a vital and intricate role in the Outer Banks Community for decades. 

Over the past 50+ years, Joe Lamb Jr. & Associates have worked diligently to help promote the Outer Banks for the amazing beach and family vacation destination that it is, helping to increase tourism in the area and grow our beautiful community.

Government Mule Sunday At RIFP

Our personal favorite float from the Town of Duck's 4th of July Annual Parade.
Our personal favorite float from the Town of Duck’s 4th of July Annual Parade.

There is so much to celebrate on the Outer Banks during the summer that it can almost seem overwhelming.

Yesterday it was the 4th of July and what a great day it was. The weather held and the celebrations were magnificent.

We started the day at the Town of Duck’s annual parade, which is one of the whackiest, most wonderful small town parade imaginable. The parade has wonderful homemade floats—we loved the cardboard float. It has a jump rope, trumpet playing unicycle rider. Santa Clause always shows up, although his is in red shorts.

After the parade, there are free popsicles and watermelon at the town green with live music. Big kudos to Just Playing Dixieland for bringing about two dozen kids on stage to do a kazoo version of “When the Saints Go Marching In.”

We ended up on the beach watching fireworks paint the night sky. Particularly nice touch, just before the night sky took over, a pod of dolphin went by just off the beach.

It really doesn’t get much better than that.

Government Mule Sunday at Roanoke Island Festival Park

But the weekend doesn’t stop there.

Sunday, it Government Mule at Roanoke Island Festival Parkin Manteo.

The tour is being billed as their 20th Anniversary Tour. If ever a group owed its longevity to skill and talent over flash and dazzle, Government Mule is it. Their should is a little bit hard to categorize. It’s rock based, but with a lot of other influences.

RIFP is a wonderful place for an outdoor concert. The setting is beautiful, overlooking Shallowbag Bay and nighttime is perfect for a live summertime concert on the Outer Banks. 

Government Mule is the big name, but there is music somewhere on the Outer Bank every night during the summer.

Summer is wonderful on the Outer Banks, but every time of the year is special in its own way. Spend a week or two with Joe Lamb, Jr. & Associates and relax on island time…even if the Outer Banks are not truly islands.

Two Great Bands Coming to Festival Park

Government Mule will be playing Roanoke Island Festival Park July 7.
Government Mule will be playing Roanoke Island Festival Park July 7.

The live music scene on the Outer Banks is pretty amazing, but this summer it looks like it just went to another level.

There are two bands that will be performing at Roanoke Island Festival Park in Manteo in the next few weeks that, for good reason, are nationally recognized talent.

It would be hard to imagine a better outdoor venue to see live music than RIFP. Perched on a peninsula in Roanoke Sound, the setting is beautiful and the sound system does a great job of getting the music to all corners.

In some ways the bands are completely. Crowder is a Christian rock artist; Government Mule is one of the best rock and roll bands anywhere. What they have in common, though, are great musicians and a great show.

Crowder, Wednesday, June 19

This is Crowder’s second visit to the Outer Banks. Three years ago he wowed the audience with an amazing show that featured great theatrics as well as amazing music.

The lyrics and theme of the music is certainly Christian, but what makes Crowder standout is how innovative his arrangements are, great stage effects, but mostly his sound is great rock and roll.

Government Mule, Sunday, July 7

The easy way to describe Government Mule is a rock and roll band, but then listen to their amazing version of the Etta James classic “I’d Rather Go Blind” and they become one of the finest blues bands ever. 

Or check out how they sound covering Pink Floyd, and maybe they’re taking a trip back into psychedelia.

The point is, these guys are amazing.

The show is on a Sunday, which for a lot of our guests is a getaway day. Delay if you can. For guests coming on Saturday or Sunday of that week…don’t miss this one.

Summer is here and the Outer Banks is the perfect summer vacation spot. Be sure to stay in a Joe Lamb, Jr & Associates home to enjoy the best of the Outer Banks.

Outer Banks Spring Music Festival Season Is Here

With two major music festivals this week, the Outer Banks music scene is heating up.
With two major music festivals this week, the Outer Banks music scene is heating up.

Now that the Outer Banks Bluegrass Festival has moved to May, it looks as though this coming week can officially be termed Outer Banks Spring Music Festival Week.

With two major music festivals this week, that seems like a good name for it.

Outer Banks Bluegrass Festival

After Michael wiped out three days of his four day Bluegrass Festival two years ago, Cory Hemilright figured he needed to move the music to spring. It took a year because he plans a full year into the future, but here we are in 2019 and the weather at least is cooperating.

Here are the particulars—Wednesday through Saturday at Roanoke Island Festival park in Manteo. The setting, overlooking Roanoke Sound is beautiful.

Rhonda Vincent and the Rage will be back. They have been at every festival since the first in 2012. She headlines Thursday night. 

Friday headliner is Seldom Scene and Saturday is Town Mountain wrapping up the show on Saturday.

Wedenesday evening could be fun with a free jam at Bluegrass Island Trading Company in Manteo.

Mustang Spring Jam

The music is looking really good this year, so good that the Mustang Spring Jam has been grown to two days.

Saturday features performances from Emma’s Lounge and the Travers Brothership. Two amazingly talented groups.

Sunday it’s all day with the young musicians from the Mustang Music Program starting ting it all. 

Headliner Ghost Light is typical of the type band Mike Dianna books. Innovative and on the cusp of greater recognition.

Proceeds for Mustang Music festivals benefit the Corolla Wild Horse Fund and the Mustang Music Program.

Music, art and a beautiful environment, the Outer Banks has it all. Take the time to learn what and amazing place this is with a visit to a Joe Lamb, Jr. & Associates home.

Shakespeare on the Outer Banks Stage

King of the Faeries, Oberon, lectures his Queen, Titania. She is not impressed.

Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” offers a different theater experience for Outer Banks audiences. Brought to the stage by the Theater of Dare, it is a theatrical classic done right.

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” is silly, absurd, fun and very funny. It is also one of Shakespeare’s most accessible plays. The language is the classic Elizabethan verse of the Bard’s day, but the the way the words come together and the words themselves, make this one of the most easily understood of all of Shakespeare’s plays.

After 28 years, his is the first time the Theater of Dare has ventured into Shakespeare. Too bad, too, because the play was surprisingly well done. Or perhaps we shouldn’t be too surprised given the consistent quality of TOD productions.

A Brief Description of the Plot

The play has so many twists and turns and absurd plot devices that it does not lend itself to an easy description. For those, however, who have never seen the play or know about, here is the thumbnail description.

Hermia is in love with Lysander but Hermia’s father, Egeus has ordered her to marry Demetrius, who professes his love for Hermia. The Duke of Athens, Theseus, orders Hermia to obey her father’s wishes or face expulsion or death. 

Lysander and Hermia decide to elope. Their play is to meet in the forest. They reveal their plans to Helena, who they think is a true friend, but Helena is in love with Demetrius who wants nothing to do with her. Nonetheless, she tells Demetrius of the plot of the plot, hoping he will see that Hermia truly loves Lysander and in his disappointment will turn to her.

Meanwhile Oberon, King of the Faeries, is beset with marital problems with his queen, Titania. It’s a bit unclear who is at fault, but Titania makes it clear she will neither speak to nor acknowledge Oberon.

Oberon sends his chief minion, Puck, on a quest to find a flower whose nectar, when drizzled in the eyes of the sleeping will cause them to fall in love with the first being of any sort they see upon awakening.

And after that the plot twists become too numerous to list.

This was the first weekend for “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” The production winds up next weekend with Friday and Saturday evening shows and a Sunday Matinee. The play is performed at Roanoke Island Festival Park.

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream”  is just one example of the many great things happening on the Outer Banks. Come stay with Joe Lamb, Jr. & Associates and discover the real Outer Banks.

Outer Banks Event Calendar Filled for Mother’s Day Weekend

Kids painting the wall at Dowdy Park at Artrageous 2017.
Kids painting the wall at Dowdy Park at Artrageous 2017.

Things are heating up on the Outer Banks and it’s not just the weather, although that’s getting warmer as well. The event calendar is getting so full that we can’t even get to everything there is to do—but we can at least give a good sense of upcoming events.

There’s plenty to do this weekend, with the Kentucky Derby Party at Elizabethan Gardens and the Eastern Surf Association regionals at Jennette’s Pier.

But for for visitors on the Outer Banks, those events are already scheduled, so we thought we would look ahead a bit to next weekend—Mother’s Day Weekend, because there is a bunch of ways to help mom celebrate.

For visitors—or residents—with little kids, there are two fantastic events lined up perfectly for the weekend.

On Friday, May 11, it’s KidsFest at Roanoke Island Festival Park in Manteo and on Saturday May 12 the Dare County Arts Council brings Artrageous, their annual celebration of children and the arts, to Dowdy Park in Nags Head.

KidsFest is sponsored by Children and youth Partnership of Dare County and the event is very much designed for younger kids. Artrageous will appeal to kids of just about every age group and there is something for everyone to do.

Tickets are required for some of events.

One of the nicest races anywhere is the Nags HeadWoods 5K on Saturday.. Now celebrating its 35th anniversary, the course is competely on a dirt road with a beautiful canopy created by old growth trees shading the route. There’s a little bit of up and down to the course, but not too much.

Dog lovers—Woofstock brings a weekend of fun and funny competitions to the the Nags Head Event Site on Roanoke Sound.

And…do not forget about Annual Pirate Putt-Putt for Polio Fundraiser Tournament at Professor Hacker’s Lost Treasure Golf Course in Kill Devil Hills. That’s a lot of fun for a very good cause.

Still looking for accommodations for the upcoming weekend? Check out Joe Lamb Jr., & Associates for great selection and quality homes.

Outer Banks Events May 11-13

KidsFest

Roanoke Island Festival Park, Manteo

Friday, May 11

9:30am-12:30pm 

This annual event is a FREE and fun-filled day where children, ages five and under, can enjoy face painting, bubbles, ice cream and snowballs, arts and crafts, music, large vehicles, and much more! 

WOOFstock 2018 – featuring Outer Banks Spring Splash

The Outer Banks Soundside Event Site

May 11-13

Phone: (252) 473-3234

Head over to The Soundside for two pooch-friendly events. Woofstock moves to the beach this year and is joined by the “Outer Banks Spring Splash,” featuring Dock Dogs and a 25,000-gallon competition pool.

35th Annual Nags Head Woods 5K Run

Nags Head Woods, Kill Devil Hills

May 12

Double starts at 7AM & main race at 8am.

It is an out-and-back course that covers rolling terrain on a hard-packed trail. The Nags Head Woods 5K Run is the longest running charity race on the Outer Banks hosted annually by the North Banks Rotary Club.

Annual Pirate Putt-Putt for Polio Fundraiser Tournament

Professor Hacker’s Lost Treasure Golf, Kill Devil Hills

May 12

(252) 489-9198

Time: 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM

Pirate Putt Putt for Polio is an annual miniature golf tournament and fund raiser for Rotary International’s End Polio Now – worldwide polio eradication initiative.. The price is $10 per person, which includes a round of miniature golf.

Artrageous Kids Art Festival

Dowdy Park, Nags Head

Nags Head, NC 27959

May 12

10:00 AM-8:00 PM

Artrageous is organized and staffed by volunteer artists, musicians, crafters, dancers, writers, photographers and other creative people who dedicate their time and energy to the event each year.   Proceeds from Artrageous benefit DCAC cultural arts programming and the Artrageous Youth Scholarship Fund, which awards one scholarship to a senior at each Dare County High School. 

Second Winter Snowstorm Blankets Outer Banks

Fort Raleigh National Historic Site on Roanoke Island after latest snowstorm. Photo, National Weather Service
Fort Raleigh National Historic Site on Roanoke Island after latest snowstorm. Photo, National Weather Service

Second Snowstorm in 2 Weeks Dumps Heavy Amounts of Snow

It’s official—the Outer Banks got more snow than any other place in North Carolina from our latest snowstorm.

Snow is an infrequent visitor to the Outer Banks, and to have two heavy snowfalls within two weeks of one another is just about unheard of.

This last snowstorm, though…it was a heck of a storm. ‘This band of snow will remain nearly stationary over the next couple hours,” the National Weather Service reported.

And Wow (!) did it dump some snow.

We’ve taken a look at the National Weather Service snowfall amounts for the region and nothing comes even close to the 9.9” reported at Roanoke Island Festival Park in Manteo. Except the 9.5” in Southern Shores…or the 7.5” in Nags Head.

Unlike the previous storm, though, there was no bitter cold with the snow. The roads, although not perfect, were not nearly as treacherous as they were during the previous storm where daytime temperatures never got above freezing for five days.

The weather is warming nicely now, and within another day or so, there will be much of anything left. We’re getting back to normal now. The extended forecast is calling for daytime temperatures in the mid 50s and nothing below freezing for at least another week.

National Weather Service Reporting Stations Snowfall Amounts January 17-18

         Location                                   Amount              Provider

2 NW Roanoke Island Festival        9.9 in    0741 AM 01/18   Public               

2 SE Southern Shores                        9.5 in    0700 AM 01/18   Public               

2 SSE Southern Shores                     9.0 in    0747 AM 01/18   Public               

1 SE Southern Shores                        7.5 in    0915 AM 01/18   Emergency Mngr       

1 WNW Roanoke Island Festival    7.5 in    0416 AM 01/18   Public               

1 NNW Nags Head                             7.5 in    0705 AM 01/18   COCORAHS             

1 SSE Wright Brothers Nation        7.0 in    0901 AM 01/18   Public               

      

A Great Celebration to 2018 on a OBX Night

Queen Elizabeth II lit up to welcome in the New Year at the Manteo New Year's Eve celebration.
Queen Elizabeth II lit up to welcome in the New Year at the Manteo New Year’s Eve celebration.

Frigid Temperatures but Great Welcome to 2018

As the first ever New Year’s Eve Celebration on the Manteo waterfront proved, you can plan for everything but the weather. And wow did the weather throw us a curve last night.

It’s not as though the Outer Banks wasn’t in the same deep freeze the rest of the East Coast was experiencing, but this was the first time anything like this had been tried in Manteo.

Cory Hemilright, who has been bringing the Outer Banks Bluegrass Festival to Roanoke Island Festival Park for the past few years and Todd Clissold, owner of Poor Richard’s, got together with the town and came up with a great plan.

There was live music—and Sassagrass and the Original Rhondels were excellent. Street vendors were read to go with hot soup, pizza and dinners. There was even an 8:30 ball drop so kids would have a chance to countdown to the New Year.

And it all went of without a hitch.

Except for the 26 degree temperatures, wind from the north at 16 mph and the wind chill approaching 11 degrees. Oh, and did we mention the snow flurries. It was cold…brutally cold.

But kudos to everyone involved and the small crowd that did make it out.

Yes it was very cold, but two roaring fires helped. A local church was there with hot chocolate. They were also selling cold drinks but that just seemed like it would piling in temperatures like we experienced last night.

A couple of businesses did stay open.

Poor Richards was doing a booming business. And on the corer of Budleigh and Queen Elizabeth Island Perks was so busy they finally ran out of milk for hot chocolate and lattes.

Cold or not, it was a great evening and a wonderful way to welcome in the New Year, and we hope this will be the first of many more New Year’s Eve celebrations on the Manteo waterfront.