With historic sites reopening and more events on the calendar, spring 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.
Kelly's 35th Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade
March 15, 1pm
The Kelly’s St. Patrick's Day Parade is one of the largest St. Patrick's Day celebrations in North Carolina. Thousands of spectators line the one-mile route beginning in Nags Head near Bladen Street (Milepost 11.5) north to Driftwood Street on Virginia Dare Trail (aka the Beach Road). Follow the rainbow afterwards to one of the many local restaurants hosting post-parade events.
Books and Brews
March 18, 5:30-8pm
Join Downtown Books from Manteo for a night of page-turning fun at Waveriders Coffee, Deli & Market. This book fair for grownups will feature all sorts of bookish merch, along with raffle prizes and a special menu.
Currituck Beach Lighthouse Free Climb Day
March 21, 9am-5pm
Climb up the Currituck Beach Lighthouse for free on the first day of their 2026 season. Afterwards, explore the grounds of Historic Corolla Park and take in the beautiful soundfront views.
Soundside Spring Market
March 21 & April 4, 12-4pm
Spring is in the air at the Soundside Event Site in Nags Head. Walk off some of those winter blues while perusing the wares from local small businesses.
Opening Day at Island Farm
March 24, 9am-3pm
Visitors can expect a warm welcome to spring on opening day at Island Farm, a living history farmstead on Roanoke Island. There will be live blacksmithing, buttermaking, hearthcooking, house tours, cooking demonstrations, and plenty of livestock to see. Younger guests will also find various toys and games to enjoy. Admission is $11; children 3 and under are admitted free.
Fly into Spring & Easter Eggstravaganza
April 3 & 4, 10am-4pm
Join Kitty Hawk Kites at Jockey’s Ridge Landing in Nags Head for some high-flying fun. Massive kites will soar above the sandy peaks of Jockey’s Ridge on both days, with the Easter Eggstravaganza on April 4 from 10:30am-1:15pm. An egg hunt (fees apply) is followed by visits with the Easter bunny.
First Friday in Manteo
April 3 & May 1, 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.
Eastertide in the Gardens
April 4, 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.
Dowdy Park Market
April 11, 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.
Dare A250 Life, Liberty and Liftoff Faire
April 18, 11am-7pm
Join Dare County in celebrating the nation’s 250th anniversary at the Dare A250 Faire. The day will be filled with a variety of vendors, live music, historical reenactments and storytelling, art displays, educational programming, and more festivities. Activities happening throughout downtown Manteo from 11am to 4pm are open to all, and free tickets are required for evening events at Roanoke Island Festival Park due to venue capacity.
Spring Open House at the Farm
April 18, 9am-1pm
The Corolla Wild Horse Fund is hosting their Spring Open House in Grandy, where you can meet rescued Banker horses during a walking tour of the farm.
Coastal Gardening Festival
May 2, 9am-2pm
Spring will be in full bloom at the 22nd Annual Coastal Gardening Festival. Stop by the Baum Center in Kill Devil Hills to browse and purchase plants grown locally here on the Outer Banks. Grab a treat from the bake sale, shop with vendors, and let the kids have fun with activities and education stations.