As winter rolls in, The Northern Outer Banks transform into a peaceful and magical destination that’s ripe for holiday cheer, stunning natural displays, and cozy experiences you won’t forget. Whether you’re shopping for one-of-a-kind gifts, savoring seasonal treats, or spotting migrating birds, there’s a little something for everyone.
Please check out The Northern Outer Banks events page for this year’s most up-to-date list of events and details.
Winter Wonderland at Blue 42’s Brewing Barn
Mark your calendar for an unforgettable family day at Blue 42’s Brewing Barn in Moyock. You’ll step into a festive Winter Wonderland in Sligo featuring heartwarming décor, joyful activities, and general holiday cheer, all wrapped in the rustic charm of a barn venue. It’s the perfect excuse to sip, stroll, and smile your way through the day. Get photos with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and The Grinch. Grab lunch at a food truck!
Christmas Craft Village at Whalehead (Historic Corolla Park)
Kick off your holiday shopping with a stroll through the Christmas Craft Village on the serene lawns of Whalehead in Historic Corolla Park. This one-day event brings together local artisans, fine crafts, unique gifts, handmade cosmetics, and baked goods, all set against the backdrop of the beautiful Historic Corolla Park. Food vendors add a tasty touch while you browse and bask in the festive atmosphere.
Christmas in Corolla: Village Lights & Holiday Cheer
For a truly dazzling experience, head to Historic Corolla Village during the Christmas in Corolla celebration. The Corolla Village Holiday Market brings twinkling lights, festive music, local craft stalls, and warm holiday hospitality to life. And all this is in conjunction with the Currituck Beach Lighthouse’s 150th anniversary bash. Corolla Village BBQ and nearby food trucks keep hunger at bay, while live music sets the perfect wintry mood.
Meanwhile, Whalehead’s Candlelight Christmas Tour takes place every Friday-Saturday between Thanksgiving and Christmas. The Whalehead mansion comes alive with the spirit of Christmas in a 1920s setting. Tour times are 5:30-6:30 p.m. Call 252-453-9040 to reserve your little piece of Christmas joy.
Wildlife & Winter Wonders: Knotts Island Nature
Looking for quiet winter magic? Knotts Island and the Mackay Island National Wildlife Refuge become breathtaking spots for birding and peaceful reflection in the off-season. Besides birdwatching, this 8,219-acre parcel is great for bicycling, photography, fishing, and kayaking. Take a breath from the holiday hustle and bustle by getting back to nature.
Birding Bliss in Corolla
If you’re more of an aviary explorer, grab those binoculars and lace up your walking shoes. Winter birding in Corolla is a wonderful holiday activity. With fewer visitors, the beaches and trails become serene stages highlighting migratory birds settling in for the season. Thousands of birds—snow geese, tundra swans, and more—fill the skies and wetlands, offering unmatched photo ops and a chance to connect with nature’s quieter side.
Why a Holiday on The Northern Outer Banks Stands Out
- Off-season calm meets holiday sparkle: Fewer crowds and unique events give winter charm its own character here.
- Local flavor everywhere: From handcrafted gifts at Whalehead to local crafts at village markets, the focus is unmistakably Northern Outer Banks.
- Nature’s performance: From bird migrations to frosted landscapes, winter here feels alive—and quiet all at once.
Whether you’re looking for gifts, glittering lights, or goose-down views of migrating waterfowl, The Northern Outer Banks offers a winter holiday unlike any other: quiet, scenic, and thoroughly memorable. Plus, off-season lodging rates make this the perfect time for a longer stay. Whether you’re settling in for a weekend of shopping and lights or planning a week of birdwatching and coastal walks, you’ll find cozy accommodations at prices that make it easy to linger a little longer.
