How to Spend Your Fall Months in the Outer Banks
As the summer heat mellows and autumn brings a crisp breeze across the coastline, there's no better time to explore the Outer Banks. Whether you're a fall traveler or a local reconnecting with the landscape, here are the can't-miss events happening now through November—each offering unique experiences to embrace the season.
OBX Multihull Sail Fest
Dates: September 5–7, 2025
Location: Nags Head Event Site, Nags Head
Description: Sail enthusiasts, gather! This new venue hosts an exhilarating showcase of multihull sailboats with opportunities to connect, explore, and celebrate the seafaring spirit of OBX.
Learn more: Outer Banks Vacations
OBX Pridefest
Dates: September 12–14, 2025
Location: Manteo (various venues)
Description: A vibrant, family-friendly festival celebrating love, inclusion, and community. Expect live music, drag performances, entertainment, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
More info: villagerealtyobx.comOuter Banks Vacations
Surfalorous Film Festival
Dates: September 15–17, 2025
Location: Jeanette’s Pier, Nags Head / Nags Head Coast
Description: Dive into the world of surf culture through thought-provoking films and surfing footage. Hosted alongside the ESA Eastern Surfing Championship, this event mixes creative storytelling with ocean activism. Expect screenings, live entertainment, food, and ocean love.
Tickets & program: outerbankscoastallife.com
OBX Jeep Invasion
Dates: September 18–20, 2025
Location: Outer Banks, kickoff at Jolly Roger restaurant
Description: A spirited gathering of Jeep enthusiasts featuring scenic beach crawls, music, food, raffles, and community goodwill. Gearheads and families alike will enjoy this festive fall roam along the OBX coast.
Details: outerbankscoastallife.comvillagerealtyobx.com
Duck Jazz Festival
Dates: October 9–12, 2025
Location: Duck Town Park, Duck
Description: A relaxing, melodic retreat—savor jazz performances in a park setting with coastal charm. Families, friends, and music lovers can enjoy rich tunes while supporting the Hatteras Island Cancer Foundation.
Learn more: Outer BanksOBX Guides
Wings Over Water
Dates: October 14–19, 2025
Location: Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, Rodanthe
Description: One of the world’s premier birding events—knowledgeable guides, workshops in art and photography, tram and kayak tours, and nature immersion. A must-see for birding enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Full schedule: Outer Banks
Bluegrass Island Festival
Dates: October 16–18, 2025
Location: Manteo, Roanoke Island
Description: Tap into toe-tapping tunes! This bluegrass festival brings in national and local acts for a foot-stomping, music-filled experience in the scenic Roanoke Island backdrop.
More: Outer Banks
Outer Banks Seafood Festival
Date: October 18, 2025
Location: Nags Head waterfront
Description: A delicious dance of local seafood, cold drinks, storytelling, and family-friendly fun. Sample the best of OBX’s culinary traditions while soaking up coastal vibes.
Tickets & info: Outer Banksouterbanksseafoodfestival.org
Ocracoke Working Watermen’s Festival
Date: October 18, 2025
Location: Ocracoke Preservation Society Museum
Description: Celebrate Ocracoke's working-water heritage with exhibits and demonstrations by local watermen, alongside food and festivity. A meaningful dive into coastal livelihoods.
Details: Outer Banks
Blackbeard’s Pirate Jamboree
Dates: October 31 – November 1, 2025
Location: Ocracoke Island
Description: Embark on a family-friendly Pirate Halloween event! Reenactments, pirate encampments, and playful sea tales offer swashbuckling fun for all.
Info: Outer Banks+1
Cape Hatteras Anglers Club Invitational Surf Fishing Tournament
Dates: November 5–8, 2025
Location: Hatteras
Description: A fall favorite among anglers—this celebrated surf fishing tournament brings in hundreds for competitive and community-driven coastal casting.
More: Outer Banks
OBX Veterans Week
Dates: November 7–13, 2025
Location: Manteo
Description: A heartfelt week of arts, music, and activities honoring veterans. Downtown Manteo comes alive with concerts, cultural events, and community appreciation.
Details: Outer Banks
Why Fall in the OBX Should Be Your Season!
From multicultural festivals to music, nature, history, and seaside cuisine, fall in the Outer Banks is vibrant, diverse, and inviting. Perfect for home hunting and community engagement, this is the season to showcase the beauty and spirit of the OBX—and position your real estate brand as the go-to local guide.