Can't-Miss Events on Ocracoke Island in 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ocracoke Island, N.C. (January 6, 2026) – Visiting Ocracoke Island in the Outer Banks of North Carolina is always a thrilling experience. Plan your next visit in 2026 around one of these exciting events, which offer visitors a chance to thoroughly immerse themselves in Ocracoke's rich culture, heritage, and history throughout the year.

Mark the Calendar for Exciting Events in 2026:

Annual Waterfowl Festival (April 17-18, 2026): Celebrate the art of decoy carving at this annual event presented by the Ocracoke Island Decoy Carvers Guild. Attendees can enjoy food, raffles, kids' decoy painting sessions, and the decoy head carving contest—a must-see for waterfowl enthusiasts.

Ocracoke Island Scallywag Runfest – 5K, 10K & Half Marathon (April 25-26, 2026): Lace up your running shoes for a scenic run through Ocracoke's historic village, Silver Lake Harbor, and past the iconic Ocracoke Lighthouse. With multiple race options, including a one-mile family fun run, there's something for everyone.

Ocracoke Invitational Surf Fishing Tournament (April 29-May 1, 2026): Anglers gather for this competitive multi-day tournament celebrating Ocracoke's legendary surf fishing. Test your skills against the Atlantic and fellow fishing enthusiasts in one of the island's premier outdoor competitions.

British Cemetery Ceremony and Reception (May 8, 2026): This meaningful event commemorates the sinking of the H.M.T. Bedfordshire off the coast of Ocracoke Island in 1942. Representatives from the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Navy, British Royal Navy, and Canadian Royal Navy, along with Ocracoke High School students, gather to honor the fallen sailors with a reading of the crew list, bagpipes, and a 21-gun salute.

20th Annual Ocracoke Firemen's Ball (May 23, 2026): Join the island's beloved Memorial Day weekend tradition as it celebrates two decades of community support. This lively event kicks off with a pig picking, followed by silent and live auctions to support the Ocracoke Volunteer Fire Department. Dance the night away to live music from three bands.

Ocrafolk Festival (June 5-7, 2026): Immerse yourself in the artistry of Ocracoke with musicians, storytellers, artisans, and local characters. This vibrant festival is perfect for the whole family and a highlight of the island's summer events.

Ocracoke Island Independence Day Celebration (July 2, 2026): Kick off your July 4th celebrations early with fireworks on July 2, followed by a sand sculpture contest and a patriotic parade that's fun for all ages.

15th Annual Ocracoke Fig Festival (August 7-8, 2026): A sweet tradition celebrates its 15th anniversary! Honor Ocracoke figs with exhibits, demonstrations, music, and the Fig Cake Bake-Off judged by James Beard Award-winning chefs. Sample entries from the community and experience the island's unique culinary heritage as we celebrate fifteen years of this beloved festival.

Ocracoke Seafood Festival (August 2026): Celebrate the bounty of Pamlico Sound with this festival honoring Ocracoke's commercial fishing heritage. Experience authentic dock-to-dish dining as watermen bring in fresh catches and local restaurants showcase the island's seafood traditions.

Red Drum Shootout (October 2-3, 2026): Cast your lines and compete in this exciting fishing tournament. Anglers of all skill levels are invited to celebrate Ocracoke's fishing traditions.

Ocracoke Working Watermen's Festival (October 10, 2026): Since the first settlers, Ocracoke's residents have made their living on the water. This festival celebrates the island's fishing and maritime heritage with booths, exhibits, porch talks, demonstrations of traditional net-making and boat-building, and a traditional Ocracoke fish fry.

Ocracoke Witches Paddle (October 24, 2026): Don your most creative costume and join this whimsical kayak parade through Ocracoke's waters. This Halloween-season tradition combines outdoor adventure with island creativity for a uniquely Ocracoke experience.

Blackbeard's Pirate Jamboree (October 30-31, 2026): Dive into Ocracoke's swashbuckling history with this weekend-long event featuring a historically accurate pirate encampment, living history exhibits, sea shanties, and reenactments of Blackbeard's infamous last battle at the actual site where he died in 1718. This event is fun for all ages and culminates with a tribute to those lost in the battle.

Turkey Trot (November 2026): Work up an appetite for Thanksgiving with this community fun run through Ocracoke Village, bringing together locals and visitors for an active holiday tradition.

Parade of Boats (November 2026): Ring in the holiday season island-style as decorated and illuminated boats parade through Silver Lake Harbor in this festive maritime tradition.

Historic Homes Tour (November 2026): Step back in time and explore Ocracoke's architectural heritage with guided tours of historic island homes, offering a rare glimpse into the preservation efforts that maintain the village's authentic character.

Holiday Gift Market (November 2026): Shop local artisan crafts, handmade goods, and unique island treasures at this festive market showcasing Ocracoke's creative community.

About the OTTDA:
The Ocracoke Township Tourism and Development Authority (OTTDA) is a tax authority funded by two percent of the Occupancy Tax collected in Hyde County. Our mission is to promote travel and tourism to Ocracoke Island while recognizing and celebrating the unique cultural, historical, and environmental heritage of Ocracoke Village and Ocracoke Island.
For complete event details, ferry schedules, and lodging information, visit visitocracokenc.com or follow us on social media at #VisitOcracoke.