Holiday events on the OBX Week of December 8, 2025

Holiday Happenings on the Outer Banks

The week of December 8, 2025

The holiday season is in full swing on the Outer Banks, and this week is packed with festive events, twinkling lights, and plenty of coastal holiday cheer. Whether you’re a local, a visitor, or dreaming of making the OBX your home, there’s no better time to experience the magic of winter at the beach.

WinterLights at The Elizabethan Gardens – Manteo

Stroll through one of the most beloved holiday traditions on the Outer Banks as The Elizabethan Gardens transform into a glowing wonderland of lights, decorations, and seasonal displays. This family-friendly event is perfect for an evening walk under the stars and runs on select nights throughout December. View the website for dates.

Santa & Community Holiday Events

Throughout the week, several towns across Dare County will host visits with Santa, family festivals and small community celebrations. These events are a wonderful way to enjoy the simple charm of the Outer Banks during the holidays and create lasting family memories.

Holiday Pop-Up Bars, Events & Seasonal Menus

Local restaurants and bars are embracing the season with festive pop-ups, themed cocktails, and special holiday menus. From cozy Christmas décor to creative seasonal drinks, it’s the perfect way to warm up after a winter beach walk.

• Meet the Grinch at 1903 Bar & Kitchen, December 10th, 2025 5pm-7pm
• Pony Cart Rides with Santa at Jolly Roger Restaurant, December 10th, 2025 4-7pm.
• Ugly Sweater Holiday Restaurant Crawl, December 12-14 at the following restaurants:
  Shipwrecks Taphouse & Grill, Black Pelican, Hurricane Mo’s and 1903 Bar & Kitchen
• Shipwrecks Winter Fest, December 13th, 3pm-8pm at Shipwrecks Taphouse & Grill
  Pony rides, gingerbread house making, photos with Santa and more.
• 12 Bars of Christmas-Check out the website for all participating restaurants and events here.

Holiday Markets & Shopping

Support local small businesses at holiday markets happening across the Outer Banks this week. Shop for handcrafted gifts, coastal décor, artwork, ornaments, and unique finds while enjoying live music and a cheerful atmosphere.

Soundside Holiday Market-December 14th, 2025 at the Nags Head event site from 12-4.

Experience the Outer Banks Year-Round

One of the best things about life on the Outer Banks is that the sense of community never disappears—especially during the holidays. From quiet beach mornings to festive town events, winter is truly a special time to live and invest here.

At Coldwell Banker Seaside Realty, we don’t just help you find a house—we help you discover the lifestyle that comes with it. If you’re thinking about buying, selling, or investing on the Outer Banks as we head into 2026, our local experts are here to help every step of the way.