2026 is a special year and a once-in-a-generation milestone: America's 250th anniversary! Commemorating the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026, A250 celebrates where we've come and where we're going as a country by honoring the contributions of all Americans and planning for a future that all Americans can be proud of. Dare County and all of the Outer Banks are ready to celebrate in a big way! Locally branded as Dare250, this year-long initiative honors the Outer Banks' historic role in the epic American story, from early coastal exploration to aviation innovation right here where we call home!
Whether you're planning a coastal getaway, booking your next Outer Banks summer vacation, or living here full-time, the Dare A250 calendar is packed with events honoring patriotic celebrations, local history, family fun, live music, and community spirit.
Why America 250 Matters to Outer Banks Visitors
The America 250 (A250) celebrations in Dare County are more than a series of patriotic events. They're our invitation to all Americans to experience the Outer Banks through the lens of American history, coastal culture, and community pride. As one of the most historically significant regions in the country, the Outer Banks plays a unique role in the national story, making this year-long commemoration especially meaningful for visitors.
Travelers who visit during the A250 celebration year can expect:
A Deeper Connection to American History
From early coastal settlements to world-changing innovation, the Outer Banks has long been a place of “firsts.” A250 events highlight the region’s contributions to American independence, exploration, lifesaving traditions, and aviation. Spend your next Outer Banks summer vacation experiencing history where it actually happened.
Interactive, Family-Friendly Experiences
Unlike traditional museums that you'll find in larger metropolitan areas, many A250 events are hands-on, outdoors, and designed for all ages. Guests can enjoy live demonstrations, historical reenactments, music, storytelling, food vendors, and community celebrations that make learning engaging for kids, teens, and adults alike.
Authentic Community Celebrations
What sets Dare County’s A250 initiative apart is its local, small-town feel. These aren’t one-day photo ops. Dare A250 is a collection of community-driven events that are a part of already existing festivals, parades, and seasonal traditions across the Outer Banks. Visitors get to experience the region not just as tourists, but as temporary locals sharing in a historic milestone as we celebrate what it means to be American together. And there's truly no better place to do it than on the Outer Banks, where the locals are friendly, the summers are warm, and you can expect a patriotic celebration that will last a lifetime.
A Built-In Travel Upgrade
For vacationers already planning a beach trip, Dare A250 events add extra value to an Outer Banks stay. Guests can balance beach time with meaningful activities, cultural adventures, and memorable experiences that go beyond the beach, often without needing to travel far from their vacation rental. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or a longer Outer Banks vacation, aligning your stay with an A250 event offers a rare opportunity to experience the destination at its most vibrant and celebratory.
Key A250 Events to Know in 2026
You'll find multiple Dare A250 event celebrations throughout the year here on the Outer Banks! Get ready to experience signature A250 festivals with ongoing local Outer Banks traditions. From our historic St. Patrick's Day parade to fall favorites, you'll be able to experience the best of the Outer Banks during America's 250th anniversary!
Kelly’s 35th Annual St. Patrick’s Parade
Saturday, March 15, 2026
Nags Head, NC
Kick off the A250 celebration with one of the Outer Banks’ most iconic spring traditions. The St. Patrick’s Parade in Nags Head will officially launch the year’s A250 events with a patriotic theme — complete with floats, music, and competition categories celebrating creativity and community participation.
First Flight Society's Celebration of Wilbur Wright's Birthday
Thursday, April 16, 2026
Jennette's Pier
Celebrate aviation history with the First Flight Society as they honor Wilbur Wright’s birthday. This educational and family-friendly event highlights the Outer Banks’ role in innovation and discovery.
Dare A250 Life, Liberty & Liftoff Faire
Saturday, April 18, 2026
Location TBD
This signature celebration celebrates 250 years of liberty, legacy, and innovation — fitting for a place called the Land of Beginnings. Expect live music, food & drink, family-friendly activities, historical storytelling, artisan vendors, and displays highlighting local heritage. Best of all, this event is free (registration encouraged).
Family Fun Times at Dowdy Park
Tuesday, June 30, 2026
Dowdy Park
A relaxed, family-focused event featuring activities for kids and parents alike. This is a great option for vacationers looking to mix beach time with easy, low-key community fun during the A250 summer season.
Summer Concert at Dowdy Park: Featuring SOULone
Wednesday, July 1, 2026
Dowdy Park
Enjoy live music in an outdoor setting as part of Dare County’s summer concert series, enhanced with patriotic themes for America’s 250th anniversary year.
Americana Farmer's Market at Dowdy Park
Thursday, July 2, 2026
Dowdy Park
This special Americana-themed market highlights local vendors, crafts, and flavors and is perfect for picking up Outer Banks goods while soaking in A250 festivities.
Independence Day Events (July 3–4, 2026)
From patriotic parades to community gatherings and fireworks, the Outer Banks shines for the Fourth of July with celebrations across Dare County. Expect classic festivities, including the Island Farm Independence Day Celebration in Manteo and local festivities in towns big and small.
Town of Duck 4th of July Parade and Community Celebration
Friday, July 3, 2026
Town of Duck
A classic coastal Fourth of July celebration featuring a parade, activities, and community gatherings in one of the Outer Banks’ most walkable towns.
Kids Move More at Dowdy Park
Friday, July 3, 2026
Dowdy Park
An energetic, kid-focused event encouraging movement and outdoor fun. This event is ideal for families traveling with younger children during the busy holiday weekend.
4 on the 4th Run/Walk
Saturday, July 4, 2026
Kinnakeet Shores
A long-standing Independence Day tradition, this scenic run/walk allows participants to celebrate the Fourth of July while enjoying Hatteras Island’s coastal beauty.
Independence Day Celebrations at Island Farm
Saturday, July 4, 2026
Manteo, NC
Step back in time with historic demonstrations, traditional games, and period interpretations at Island Farm. This is an immersive way to experience Independence Day during America’s 250th year.
Fourth of July Fireworks Show in Nags Head
Saturday, July 4, 2026
Nags Head Fishing Pier
End Independence Day with a fireworks display over the ocean! This is an unforgettable way to celebrate America's 250th anniversary on the OBX. Check out our guide to celebrating the 4th on the OBX for advice on parking and other activities during your holiday weekend!
10th Annual OBX Brewtag
Saturday, October 24, 2026
Soundside Event Site
A fall favorite that combines creativity, engineering, and fun, OBX Brewtag caps off the Dare A250 season with crowd-favorite competitions and coastal flair.
Throughout the Year: A250 Community Events & Activities
In addition to these headline happenings, Dare County and partner organizations will highlight A250 themes through educational programs, historical exhibits, community talks, performances, heritage celebrations, and more, often with free or family-friendly options. Many regular local events will also carry A250 elements as part of the commemoration.
Dare A250 Passport to History: Explore the Land of Beginnings
Love exploration and local lore? The A250 Passport Program lets guests and residents discover 13 historic sites across Dare County, from iconic landmarks like the Wright Brothers National Memorial to off-the-beaten-path cultural gems. Participants scan QR codes at each stop, collect digital stamps, and gain a deeper appreciation for the stories that shaped America.
Launching January 2026, the Dare A250 Passport Program offers a fun, self-guided way for visitors and locals to experience the rich history that earned the Outer Banks its nickname: the Land of Beginnings. Created in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, this interactive program invites participants to explore 13 historic sites across Dare County, each spotlighting a pivotal moment in local and national history. Learn more about local OBX history, from early exploration and maritime rescue to aviation’s first flight. Once you've seen all that there is to offer, you'll never see the Outer Banks the same again.
How It Works
At each passport stop, guests simply scan a QR code to earn a digital stamp and track progress online. Complete all 13 stops and you’ll receive a certificate recognizing your participation in Dare County’s A250 celebration. The program runs January 1 through November 18, 2026, making it easy to pace visits across a weekend getaway or a longer Outer Banks stay.
Why Guests Love It
- Flexible & Family-Friendly: Explore the Outer Banks at your own pace. There are no tickets or rigid schedules.
- County-Wide Discovery: Sites span from the northern beaches to Hatteras Island, perfect for building mini day trips into your already-scheduled stay.
- Close to Your Stay: We've got Outer Banks vacation rentals up and down the beach, making history a convenient add-on to beach time.
Passport Stops by Area
Southern Shores
1. Flat Tops of Southern Shores
Kitty Hawk
2. Icarus Monument to a Century of Flight
Kill Devil Hills
3. Wright Brothers National Memorial
Nags Head
4. Jennette’s Pier
5. Jockey’s Ridge State Park
6. Bodie Island Lighthouse
Manteo / Roanoke Island
7. Fort Raleigh National Historic Site
8. Pea Island Cookhouse
9. Island Farm
Wanchese
10. Bethany Church
East Lake
11. Buffalo City
Rodanthe
12. Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station
Hatteras Village
13. Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum
Whether you’re visiting these landmarks for the first time or rediscovering familiar favorites, the Dare A250 Passport Program adds depth and meaning to an Outer Banks vacation. Combine long, luxurious days at the beach with exciting educational adventures that will give you and your whole family a sincere appreciation for all that the Outer Banks holds.
Plan ahead: View the Land of Beginnings Dare A250 GIS Map here! At each passport stop, scan a QR code and receive your digital stamp!
Pro Tip for Vacationers: Plan Your Trip Around A250 Events
Make the most of your Outer Banks vacation by building your itinerary around Dare County’s A250 highlights:
Plan Around Key Dates
Plan an April stay around the A250 Faire (April 18) and combine it with a visit to Wright Brothers National Memorial, where innovation took flight and history comes alive through exhibits and outdoor exploration.
Balance Beach Time with Learning
Turn a summer vacation into a self-guided history adventure by participating in the Passport to History Program, which encourages visitors to explore multiple historic sites across Dare County at their own pace.
Consider Short or Off-Season Stays
Book midweek or shoulder-season stays to enjoy A250 events with fewer crowds while still taking advantage of beautiful Outer Banks weather, quieter beaches, and flexible travel dates.
Build Mini Day Trips
The passport program's historic sites stretch all the way from Southern Shores to Hatteras Island, making this the perfect excuse for sightseeing! Pair each stop with a local restaurant, souvenir shopping, or a lighthouse climb, and make the most of your stay.
Travel With All Ages in Mind
All of the Dare A250 events are family-friendly by design, building on the bipartisan initiative to engage every American in the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States. The outdoor adventures, festivals, and hands-on learning will be great for younger kids, while teens will love the exciting history of aviation and lifesaving missions.
Arrive Early for Popular Events
Plan ahead and get there early so you don't miss out! Especially at the larger events like the Faire, you can expect to see an increased number of guests and locals all enjoying historical events. Be sure to leave plenty of time for parking, exploring, and enjoying all the activities. Don't forget to bring walking shoes, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle.
Stay Close to the Action
Consider booking a vacation rental in Kitty Hawk or Kill Devil Hills, placing you close to the action and providing the perfect launching point for this once-in-a-generation celebration. Many of the events are just a short drive from most of our rentals, giving you the flexibility to come and go as you need throughout the day.
A Patriotic History of the Outer Banks: America Begins Here
Long before the Outer Banks became the East Coast's favorite vacation destination, these barrier islands were a foundational part of America's history. Known today as the Land of Beginnings, the Outer Banks has evolved through innovation, resilience, and independence to build a unique coastal community founded in patriotism and the true American spirit.
The First English Attempts at a New Nation
Everyone knows about Plymouth Rock, but the earliest attempts at English settlement in the Americas took place on Roanoke Island, where English colonists established the first attempt at a permanent colony in "the New World" in the late 1500s. While the mystery of what happened to the Lost Colony remains unsolved, though they're getting closer to finding the truth every day, its legacy serves as a symbol of perseverance, exploration, and the risks taken in pursuit of freedom and opportunity. Be sure to embrace this spirit of the start of the American story every night during the summer by attending The Lost Colony, America's longest-running outdoor drama that pays homage to this settlement attempt and the ideals that would later come to define the United States.
Guardians of the Coast
Most people think about Cape May, NJ, or even Elizabeth City, NC, when they think of the United States Coast Guard, but did you know that the Outer Banks is home to the history that is widely regarded as the start of the USCG? For centuries, the treacherous waters off the coast of the Outer Banks earned the area the nickname of the Graveyard of the Atlantic. As a result, local residents formed some of the nation's earliest organized lifesaving crews and founded the Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station! This innovation and dedication to service represent the spirit of giving, bravery, and community that have helped protect America's maritime lifelines for centuries!
Where Innovation Took Flight
When looking at the history of the OBX, you can't forget about the Outer Banks' unique history as the birthplace of powered flight! In 1803, Orville and Wilbur Wright achieved the impossible, changing transportation, warfare, commerce, and global connection forever! This moment of ingenuity has defined the Outer Banks for generations and reflects the best of the American spirit. There's no better place to celebrate what it means to be an American than here at the birthplace of powered flight.
Frequently Asked Questions: Dare A250 FAQs for Outer Banks Visitors
What is Dare A250?
Dare A250 is Dare County’s official celebration of America’s 250th anniversary in 2026. The initiative includes year-long events, festivals, educational programs, and self-guided experiences that highlight the Outer Banks’ role in American history, innovation, and coastal heritage.
When do Dare A250 events take place?
Dare A250 programming runs throughout 2026, with activities scheduled from January through November. Some experiences, like the Passport Program, are ongoing, while others, such as festivals and fairs, take place on specific dates.
Are Dare A250 events free to attend?
Most Dare A250 events are free or low-cost. Signature events like the Dare A250 Life, Liberty & Liftoff Faire offer free admission, though advance registration is encouraged for planning and capacity purposes.
Do I need tickets or reservations for A250 events?
Some events offer free ticket registration to help organizers plan and meet grant reporting requirements. Ticket downloads for the Dare A250 Faire will open in late February 2026. Most Passport Program sites do not require reservations.
What is the Dare A250 Passport Program?
The Passport Program is a self-guided historical experience inviting visitors to explore 13 historic sites across Dare County. Participants scan QR codes at each location to earn digital stamps and track progress online. Those who complete all stops receive a commemorative certificate. View the Land of Beginnings Dare A250 GIS Map here.
Is Dare A250 family-friendly?
Yes! Dare A250 events are designed for all ages, with hands-on activities, outdoor venues, and interactive storytelling that appeal to kids, teens, and adults. It’s an easy way to combine education and fun during an Outer Banks vacation.
Where are Dare A250 events located?
Events take place across Dare County, including Nags Head, Kill Devil Hills, Kitty Hawk, Manteo, Rodanthe, and Hatteras Village.
How close are Dare A250 events to vacation rentals?
Most Dare A250 venues and historic sites are located within minutes of our Outer Banks vacation rentals, making it easy to attend events without long drives or complicated planning. Make it a mini daytrip and explore the best of the OBX!
Can I attend multiple Dare A250 events during one trip?
Absolutely. Many visitors plan trips around a major event and then explore additional Passport Program sites or community celebrations during the same stay. Others return multiple times throughout the year to experience different events.
Will more Dare A250 events be announced?
Yes. Dare A250 is a year-long initiative, and additional events, performances, and programs will be announced throughout 2026. Event details may evolve as the celebration approaches.
Where can I find the latest Dare A250 updates?
For the most up-to-date information, event schedules, and announcements, visit DareA250.org.
Make It a Vacation Highlight
As Dare County marks this once-in-a-generation milestone, the Dare A250 Passport Program offers a meaningful way to experience the Outer Banks beyond the beach. By connecting iconic landmarks, local stories, and national history into one self-guided adventure, the program invites visitors to slow down, explore deeper, and see why this stretch of the coast is truly the Land of Beginnings. Whether you complete a few passport stops during a short stay or collect all 13 over multiple visits, you’ll leave with a richer understanding of the Outer Banks and memories that extend far beyond your time on the sand.
Book your stay today in one of our cozy vacation rentals and get ready to celebrate America's 250th anniversary in the place that started it all. Give our wonderful Guest Services Team a call today at (866) 884-0267 or take a look at our available rentals to get started planning your next unforgettable adventure to the Outer Banks. There so much to do and see. With amazing food and drinks, exciting excursions, and plenty of sand for everyone to relax, there's something for everyone here on the Outer Banks.
And don't forget about our layaway plan, which makes booking your dream vacation easier than ever. So don't wait. We're booking Outer Banks vacation rentals year round and we're excited to help you create memories to last a lifetime. We're here to help make your OBX vacation fun, exciting, and hassle-free. Give us a call today! Be sure to provide accurate information and make any necessary payments.
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