Every January, about a week after most families have taken down their Christmas decorations, the residents of Rodanthe gather for a traditional celebration known as Old Christmas. Held on the Saturday closest to Epiphany, Old Christmas has been observed for over 100 years in this tiny Hatteras community.
It is thought to be a holdover from colonial days when, in 1752, the English Crown adopted the Gregorian calendar, shortening the year by eleven days. According to local lore, the isolated Hatteras towns were not informed of the change until years afterwards, and in true Outer Banks spirit, refused to adopt the change.
While the residents certainly welcome visitors, this is a locals' celebration held at the Rodanthe Town Center. Festivities usually begin with an oyster roast in the afternoon, followed later in the evening by the appearance of Old Buck, a mythical wild bull. Legend has it that Old Buck once terrorized the townspeople until a hunter finally felled him. Today, the residents who dress in bull's costume and parade through the celebration bring Old Buck back to life.
Brindley Beach Vacations offers premier Real Estate and Property Management services across the entire Outer Banks. Representing more than 450 vacation rental homes, we proudly serve every region—from the southern beaches of Hatteras Island...
For more than 39 years, Resort Realty has been providing unforgettable Outer Banks vacations. From Corolla to Hatteras Island, Resort Realty offers nearly 600 Outer Banks vacation homes that range from cozy 1-bedroom condos to exquisite 20-bedroom...
When you first catch sight of The Jolly Roger, you might be unsure exactly what to think of it. Since its conversion from a gas station/grocery store to a restaurant in 1972, The Jolly Roger has been anything but your ordinary Outer Banks...
Jump aboard the pirate ship "REVENGE" at 600 Front Street in Beaufort, North Carolina. Our interactive voyages offer fun and adventure for families and swashbucklers of all ages. Come join our crew, take part in a pirate adventure, and enjoy festive...