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.
Sun Realty offers the Best Selection of Vacation Rentals on the Outer Banks. Our large selection of Outer Banks rentals means you can choose from a wide range of amenities, including private swimming pools, hot tubs, theater rooms, game rooms, pet...
Rustic waterfront pub at a fishing pier with a large deck for seafood eats, draft beer & live music. Fish Heads Bar and Grill is THE tiki bar of the Outer Banks. Located at Mile Post 18.5 in Nags Head, we offer a view that is second to none...
The Crystal Coast is best explored from the water, and Morehead City Ferry Service will take explorers to some of the most remote and beautiful corners of this long stretch of Southern Outer Banks shoreline. Launching from the heart of Downtown...
Home of the Crab Leg & Lobster Buffet for 27 years! Jimmy’s Seafood Buffet is a great stop for an all you can eat affordable dinner extravaganza. The buffet offers over 100 different items. It even serves Jumbo Alaskan crab legs and Jumbo...