September
> Camden County
Hiking, biking, birding, boating, fishing the Great Dismal Swamp
The Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is located in southeastern Virginia and northeastern North Carolina. Trails are open everyday from sunrise to sunset. The refuge headquarters is located at 3100 Desert Road in Suffolk, Virginia. The headquarters is closed on federal holidays; the hiking and biking trails remain open. Fishing and boating are permitted year-round on Lake Drummond. A Virginia fishing license is required. Access is via the Feeder Ditch, which connects Lake Drummond with the Dismal Swamp Canal. A public boat ramp is located north of the Feeder Ditch on the Dismal Swamp Canal.
Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
September > Elizabeth City
Arts of the Albemarle Exhibits & Gallery
Visit the Gallery where you will find exhibitions, original artwork, unique handcrafted items and photography. The resident Encore Theatre Company produces three shows per year with about twenty performance nights. Arts of the Albemarle
September > Wilmington
Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts
Thalian Hall
September > Wilmington
Cape Fear Museum of History and Science
There are permanent and featured exhibits along with special programs too numerous to list in this calendar. Be sure to check out their exhibits and events calendar when planning your to-do list. Admission charged. Cape Fear Museum
September > Wilmington
Cameron Art Museum
The Cameron Art Museum presents 6-8 special exhibitions annually; monthly family and children's programs (Kids @ CAM); weekly interdisciplinary, public programs (lectures, music, films, literature, dance); and ongoing workshops and classes in ceramics... more info: Cameron Art Museum
September > Beaufort
Down East FolkArts Society Contra Dance
The Down East FolkArts Society sponsors contra dances once a month at Duke Marine Lab. Dances include live music (jigs, reels and old time tunes) and a caller who teaches and prompts every dance. www.downeastfolkarts.org
September > Atlantic Beach
Fort Macon State Park
Rangers hold trail hikes and regularly scheduled educational and interpretive tours and programs about Fort Macon State Park. Contact the park office: Fort Macon State Park
September > Hatteras Island
Guided Bird Walks on Pea Island NWR
http://www.fws.gov/alligatorriver/spec.html#schedule Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge
September > Kitty Hawk
Outer Banks Music Showcase
Musical Variety Show. Reservations recommended, but not required. www.outerbanksmusicshowcase.com
September > Nags Head
Jockey's Ridge State Park
Rangers hold regularly scheduled educational and interpretive programs about Jockey's Ridge State Park. Learn more about the natural, cultural and historical history of Jockey's Ridge State Park and the Outer Banks at the park's exhibit hall. Find out what dunes are made of, how they are created and how they are shaped. Contact the park office or check online: http://207.4.179.50/dprcoe/coe_pub.html Jockey's Ridge State Park
September > Roanoke Island
The Art Gallery at Roanoke Island
Roanoke Island Festival Park. Hosts monthly changing exhibits featuring renowned artists. Monday thru Friday 9am to 5pm. roanokeisland.com
September > Roanoke Island
North Carolina Maritime Museum on Roanoke Island
The NC Maritime Museum on Roanoke Island will offer a variety of maritime skills, boatbuilding, sailing programs and workshops throughout the year in the Creef Boathouse. Junior Sailing will be offered mid-June through early August ( each is a five-day session). Visit the Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse and learn the history of the screw-pile lights. Visit obxmaritime.org for current schedules.
mid-February thru late Dec > Manteo
History, Arts and Fun - All Rolled Into One!
Enjoy daily programs about the Elizabeth II, in the Settlement Site and in the interactive Roanoke Adventure Museum. A docudrama in The Film Theatre entitled The Legend of Two-Path, art shows monthly in The Art Gallery, gifts at The Museum Store, picnic areas, marsh-side boardwalks, a fossil pit, and more. Roanoke Island Festival Park
September > Hyde County
Mattamuskeet Lake open to fishing and boating.
Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge
September > Wilmington
Jazz at Airlie
Enjoy First Friday Jazz Series at Airlie Gardens on the first Friday night of each month - April-October. Sponsored by the Cape Fear Jazz Appreciation Society. Airlie Gardens
September > Manteo
Red Wolf Howling Safaris
Learn more about red wolves and to experience a howling! Meet at the designated time at Creef Cut Wildlife Trailhead. Pre-registration is required. We recommend you bring flashlights and insect repellent. PLEASE-- do NOT bring pets and dress for the weather. Creef Cut Wildlife Trail is about a 15 minute drive from Manteo. Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge http://www.fws.gov/alligatorriver/ To pre-register for a howling, visit www.redwolves.com
More about the Red Wolf at ARNWR
Mid-April thru Late November > Rodanthe, Hatteras Island
Chicamacomico Lifesaving Station Programs
Storytelling, crafts, children's programs, special events, knot-tying and tours are offered. Visit chicamacomico.net for details.
mid-April thru mid-December > Wilmington
Farmers' Market
The City of Wilmington, in cooperation with the New Hanover County Cooperative Extension, announces the opening of the Farmers' Market at Halyburton Park. Regional produce, plants, herbs, cut flowers, seafood and more will be featured weekly, with special events and promotions to be held throughout the year. www.wilmingtonfarmers.com
September > Wilmington
Folk Fridays
Folk Concerts will be held the third Friday of each month from May - September. Airlie Gardens
September > Hatteras Island
Guided Canoe Tours on Pea Island NWR
Guided Canoe Tours (fee program) on Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge http://www.fws.gov/alligatorriver/spec.html#schedule Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge
September > Manteo
Guided Canoe Tours
Guided Canoe Tours (fee program) on Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge. http://www.fws.gov/alligatorriver/spec.html#schedule Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge
Early May thru Early September > Morehead City
Carteret County Curb Market
Carteret County Curb Market, the oldest continuously operating curb market in North Carolina, opens each Saturday through Labor Day, 7:30-11:30 AM at the corner of 13th and Evans streets in downtown Morehead City. Choose from fresh vegetables, local seafood, cut flowers, and a multitude of baked goods. Crystal Coast TDA
Mid-May thru Late September > Roanoke Island
Shallowbag Bay Sailabouts
Beginning mid-May the public is invited to join the NC Maritime Museum for a short sail on Shallowbag Bay aboard a traditional watercraft. Times and sailing schedule varies. Visit obxmaritime.org for more information.
Memorial Day to September 30 > Harkers Island
Cape Lookout National Seashore Interpretive Programs and Activities
Interpretive activities are presented by park rangers from Memorial Day weekend through September 30th. These include a wide range of history, natural resource, and recreational programs. Programs include Horse Watching, Habitat Hike, Lighthouse Lore, Storm Stories, Fishing with the Coast Keeper, Barrier Island Ecology, Tidal Flat Exploration and a Cape Truck Tour with a Ranger. Some programs occur each week, some scheduled programs are repeated and require reservations. Check at the Harkers Island Visitor Center to learn of places to visit in Cape Lookout, and to learn of things to do. http://www.nps.gov/calo/programs.htm Cape Lookout National Seashore
Memorial Day to Labor Day > Bodie Island, Hatteras Island, Ocracoke Island
Cape Hatteras National Seashore Interpretive Programs and Activities
A full schedule of interpretive activities are presented by park rangers throughout the summer season. These include a wide range of history, natural resource, and recreational programs. Additional programs may be offered as well. Check at a park Visitor Center for a current schedule, and a copy of "In the Park," an informational newspaper published each summer. http://www.nps.gov/caha/programs.htm Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Memorial Day to Labor Day > Kill Devil Hills
Wright Brothers National Memorial Interpretive Programs and Activities
Wright Brothers National Memorial has many activities designed especially for kids. Check out the park schedule for "Especially for Kids" programs available at the visitor center. One favorite is "Kite Flight" where kids can see a demonstration of kite building and then fly their own homemade kites. These and other interpretive programs will be offered from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Check at the Visitor Center for a complete schedule. http://www.nps.gov/wrbr/indepth/programs.htm
Wright Brothers National Memorial
September > Gates County
Merchants Millpond State Park
Rangers hold regularly scheduled educational and interpretive programs about Merchants Millpond State Park, one of North Carolina's rarest ecological communities. Massive cypress & gum trees covered with Spanish moss form a canopy for the dark waters of the 750-acre cypress millpond ~ a wilderness sanctuary for wetland wildlife. Contact the park office or check online: Merchants Millpond
September - December > Windsor
Deer Hunting on Roanoke River NWR
Hunt administered by NC Wildlife Resources Commission. http://northcarolina.fws.gov/ncevents.html Roanoke River National Wildlife Refuge
September > Columbia
Deer Hunting on Pocosin Lakes NWR
Refuge permit required. http://northcarolina.fws.gov/ncevents.html Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge
September 01 > Southport
Children's Crab Derby
An event held annually for children ages 16 and under. Participants need to furnish their own string, bait, and net. No commercial crab traps will be allowed. The event is held at the Old Yacht Basin from 10am - 2pm on Labor Day. Southport - Oak Island Tourism
September > Manteo
Deer Hunting on Alligator River NWR
Refuge permit required. Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge. http://northcarolina.fws.gov/ncevents.html Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge
September 01 > New Bern
Stanly-Spaight Duel Reenactment
Academy Green. This is a historical reenactment of a duel between 19th century New Bern political rivals. The reenactment will include costumed characters and reproduction flintlock pistols. Tour the New Bern Academy Museum. Tryon Palace
September 06 > Hertford
Indian Summer Festival
An old-fashioned street and water festival featuring boat rides, music, crafters and great local food. Free shuttle buses to Hearth & Harvest Festival at the Historic Newbold-White House. Perquimans County Tourism
September 06 > Wilmington
Annual Wilmington Dog Jog
Join the City of Wilmington's Parks, Recreation and Downtown Services Division for the Annual Wilmington Dog Jog! Events will include a 5K run, a 1.5 mile fun walk, the Pooch Plunge at the Legion swimming pool as well as doorprizes, vendors and much more. www.wilmingtonrecreation.com
September 28 > Kure Beach
Summer Artillery Shoot at Fort Fisher
Staff and volunteers dress in period Civil War uniforms to shoot the fort's cannons. Cannons are loud. Bring ear plugs. Admission is free, donations appreciated! Fort Fisher State Historic Site
September 07 - October 03 > Elizabeth City
Annual Landmark Show & Competition
An exhibition of paintings of local landmarks. (Public competition) Arts of the Albemarle Gallery. Arts of the Albemarle
September 13 > Roanoke Rapids, Halifax County
Annual Roanoke Canal Festival
The Canal Museum will host several living history demonstrations including stone masonry, batteau boat building, net weaving, homemaking arts and other eighteenth century skills. Games will be held for kids and adults alike. www.roanokecanal.com
September 13 > Scotland Neck, Halifax County
Scotland Neck's Annual Classic Car Show & Competition
There will be door prizes, t-shirts, contests and vendors. Food will be available on site. www.townofscotlandneck.com
September 13 > Ocean Isle Beach
Purple Feet Festival
If you missed it last year now's your chance. Get out your grape stomping clothes. Admission charged. Silver Coast Winery
September 13-14 > New Bern
MS Bike Tour
The MS Bike Tour is a two-day cycling adventure that challenges riders of all ages, levels and abilities. Each day includes a 30-mile, 75-mile or 100-mile fully supported race. www.msbike.org
September 17 > Currie, northwest of Wilmington
Celebrate the Constitution
Sign a replica of the US Constitution & stay for a celebration of the great document. Weapons demonstrations and programs. Moores Creek National Battlefield
September 18 > Wilmington
Downtown Wilmington Art & Antique Walk
The Annual Art & Antique Walk, from 9am until 5pm, is sponsored by The Wilmington Downtown Assn. It will showcase various paintings, photographs, jewelry, sculptures, and antiques from New Hanover, Pender, and Brunswick counties. www.artandantiquewalk.com
September 19-20 > Wilmington
Secret Garden Tour
Visit beautiful private gardens not normally open to the public. Admission charged. Lower Cape Fear Historical Society
September 19-21 > Morehead City
Crystal Coast Super Boat Grand Prix
Morehead City has earned a permanent spot on the racing calendar. Watch the Super Boat races from the Morehead City waterfront, one of the best places for up-close audience viewing on the racing circuit. Crystal Coast TDA
September 19-20 > Oak Island
Long Bay Artificial Reef Assn Club Challenge Fishing Tournament
(Fishing club affiliation preferred) For info: lbara.com
September 20-21 > Kure Beach
Annual Southern Coastal Bluegrass Festival
Presented by the Thalian Association Community Theatre along with the Children's Theatre. They are bringing the flavor of the mountains to the beach. The day will be full of toe-tapping and six-string instruments. Tickets and can be purchased at the festival or the Thalian office. Fort Fisher Military Recreation Area www.coastalbluegrassfestival.org/
September 20 > Elizabeth City
Moth Boat Regatta and Day on the River
The annual Moth Boat Regatta is a day of classic racing and fun family events. The moth boat originated in Elizabeth City in 1929, and as it s popularity grew, the Moth Boat regatta was born. The regatta is raced on a triagular course approximately one and one half miles in length on the Paquotank River along Elizabeth City's waterfront. Although the classic moth boat is the feature of the day, other small boats (Sunfish, Hampton, etc) are welcome! Sponsored by the Pasquotank Yacht Club and the Museum Of The Albemarle.
September 20 > Hatteras Island
Day at the Docks- A Celebration of Hatteras Island Watermen
The commercial and charter fishing fleets will display their boats, skills, products and gear in a variety of competitions and demonstrations. There will be a number of maritime-inspired games for children and fresh, local seafood will be featured in a chowder cook-off and cooking demos. Traditional wooden boats will be on site. Musical entertainment will take place throughout the day. www.dayatthedocks.org
September 23-27 > Edenton
Chowan County Fair
Amusement rides, entertainment and great food at the American Legion Fairgrounds. www.chowanfair.com
September 26-27 > Martin County
Stampede
Annual rodeo. www.sbmeac.com
September 26-28 > Tarboro
History Days
Living History Reenactment, Traditional Crafters, walking & riding tours, period fashion show, Edgecombe Garden Club Home & Garden Tour lots of food. Edgecombe County
September 26-28 > Swansboro
Annual Onslow Bay Open King Mackerel Tournament
Proceeds will go to Camp Emahenwu, Boys and Girls Home of N.C., Childrens Flight for Hope, Miracle Farms. For info: obokmt.us
September 27 > Wilmington
Battleship Alive
Watch in delight as World War II living history interpreters bring the Ship to life. Ship visitors may watch the men going about their daily duties and drills. Included in regular admission. Battleship North Carolina
September 27 > Elizabeth City
Waterway5k Run/Walk of Elizabeth City
The Waterway 5k Run/Walk takes place at Waterfront Park in downtown Elizabeth City. The race is an out and back, easy flat course which is chip timed and USA Tarck and Field certified. The first, second and third place winners will receive medals and 1st, 2nd and third overall winners will receive trophies. There will be fruit, drinks and pizza offer after the race and live entertainment at the finish line. Please come out and enjoy a fun filled famliy event on at the waterfront.
September 27 > New Bern
Neuse River Backwater Open
The tournament is unique in it's the only ALL artificial lure tournament here in eastern NC and showcases three of the most sought after species in the Neuse river. Targeted are Flounder, Speckled Trout and Red Drum. Proceeds go to the Neuse River Foundation. neuseriverbackwateropen.com
September 27 > Kitty Hawk
Kitty Hawk's Heritage Day Celebration
Free family oriented fun day. There will be children's activities, live music, food, craft booths, 5K race, & entertainment! For more information. townofkittyhawk.org
September 27 > Ocracoke Island
Ocracoke Art Walk
Join Ocracoke artists and craftmen as they showcase their work at the Ocracoke Arts Walk. This event is free and local artisans' studios will be open to the public throughout the day. Hyde County Tourism
September 27-28 > Hampstead
NC Spot Festival
Arts & crafts, tasty Spot dinners plus a variety of other food, amusement rides & inflatables, car show, golf tournament and more. Contact Pender County Tourism for more info.
September 28-29 > Morehead City
Carteret Numismatic Socity Annual Coin Show
Coin dealers buying & selling coins, educational exhibits, free materials on coins, ample free parking. carteretns.com/Main.html
Late May thru Late October > Elizabeth City
Downtown Waterfront Market
A weekly celebration of local foods, crafts and activities!! Cooking and arts-and-crafts demonstrations! Music and live performances!! On the green at Mariner's Wharf Park, Saturdays morning to mid-afternoon. Hope to see you there!! For more information downtownwaterfrontmarket.com
CoastalGuide's HELMSMAN