The beach might not be the first destination you think of for a Christmas vacation, but when you take a Christmas getaway to Hatteras Island in the Outer Banks, NC, It’s guaranteed to be a Christmas unlike any other! It’s chilly enough in the winter season to enjoy seasonal pastimes like sitting around the outdoor fire pit, drinking hot cider, and going stargazing, but warm enough to engage in lots of outdoor recreation, from walking on the beach to bicycling around the island. Trade your winter pines for palm trees and come spend the holiday in the Outer Banks—to simplify your vacation planning, we’re sharing a list of the best Outer Banks Christmas activities and events in Hatteras!
Enjoy a Unique Outer Banks Christmas Experience
Spending Christmas on the beach is always a special experience, and even more so in the Outer Banks. You’re not just on the shores of the Atlantic—you're practically in it! Surrounded by the vast beauty of the Pimlico Sound to the west, and the seemingly endless horizon of the ocean to the east, you’ll be experiencing breathtaking views at every turn. You’ll find the area to be seasonably chilly, which is great for getting into the Christmas spirit by gathering around the outdoor firepit or cozying up with your favorite blanket at night. The weather is still fairly moderate for winter, with temperatures that still allow you to take sunrise strolls on the beach and do activities like rent bicycles to explore Hatteras Island and beyond. You’ll be able to enjoy lots of outdoor activities when you spend your Outer Banks Christmas in Hatteras!
Visit the Elizabethan Garden for their Winter Lights Event
Just north of Hatteras Island, near the connection to the mainland, you’ll find Roanoke Island, which is home to the town of Manteo. There you can find the Elizabethan Gardens, a whimsical botanical garden with art and architecture that will make you feel like you’ve been transported to a quaint English garden. During Christmas time, the gardens become even more magical for their annual “Winter Lights” event, where the gardens are decorated with thousands of holiday lights that create a captivatingly festive wonderland. In the Royal Gift Exchange Shop, you’ll be able to browse a selection of seasonal plants and holiday gifts as well. This event occurs on select nights in November and December, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. This year the event takes place on these dates: November 25, 26, 27, 29, and 30; December 1-4, 6-11, 13-18, 20-23, and 27-30!
Attend the Vibrant Hatteras Island Christmas Parade
This terrific, family-friendly event takes place in the first half of the month, so you can enjoy getting into the Christmas spirit if you’re visiting before the holidays. The parade typically takes place on the second Saturday of December and runs along the route that goes about a mile right through the center of town. Expect fantastical floats throwing candy and toys to the crowd, Christmas carolers, and even Santa himself might pay a visit! The best part about this event is that it’s more than your ordinary parade, as the community gathers afterward to enjoy hot chocolate, Christmas treats, and to hear which parade participants won prizes for their costumes and float designs. This event is open to everyone, and often the attendees are visitors and locals alike! This year the parade takes place on Saturday, December 10th, 2022 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Your Christmas Vacation on Hatteras Island Will Be One to Remember
Amazing vacations start with finding the perfect rental, and that’s where we come in! We have an unbeatable selection of Christmas vacation rentals on Hatteras Island and throughout the Outer Banks, perfectly primed for your Christmas getaway. Amenities can include everything from free Wi-Fi to flat-screen TVs, and other highlights such as ocean views. Expect to find fully equipped kitchens, so you can cook your traditional holiday favorites just as you would back home. We’re more than happy to give you more information and help you start planning your Christmas on Hatteras—call us today!
