Halloween Events and Things to Do on the Outer Banks

The East Coast of the United States has a number of draws, from the cliffside adventures in the Northern coast to the tropical paradises of Florida. But, few can contend with the assortment of fall-themed activities and festivals of the Outer Banks.

Resting right in the middle along the eastern coastline, the Outer Banks is warm enough to be comfortable but cool enough to deliver that whimsical fall spirit. You’ll find an array of Halloween and fall themed activities and events for a group, couples or family trip here. In-between you’ll get to enjoy hiking, fishing, beachgoing, and mild weather.

So, what are some of the best Halloween events and things to do in the Outer Banks for 2017? There is something for everyone along this extensive island chain, and most of these events are just a hop skip and a jump away from our comfortable Outer Banks vacation rentals.

toy skeletons on Atlantic Beach — Photo From: Shutterstock

Outer Banks Halloween Parade of Costumes

A parade of costumes erupts down the center of Nag’s Head Island in late October, and it is just the place you want to be this season. The Outer Banks Halloween Parade of Costumes is four years running, and it has only grown bigger since its inception.

Kids can trick-or-treat along the main parade path, and a prize selection will be made for the best costume. It has grown to be the centerpiece Halloween event for Nag’s Head visitors. A perfect choice for all ages.

The event is Sunday, October 29th 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM at the famous Nag’s Head island main downtown.

Halloween International Film Festival

The Halloween International Film Festival displays vivid, bizarre, thought-provoking, silly, and absurd horror films from all across the world. These are not the kinds of films you will see anywhere else.

It’s a celebration of the darkly macabre. While some films are sinister and spooky, others are more rambunctious and humorous in tone. It’s a mix of everything in the spirit of Halloween.

You can also participate in evening aftershow parties and, as always, big costume contests. Q&A panels will be open for participants, featuring artists and making-of discussions from the many included films. This event is suitable for those 18 years of age and older.

The film festival will take place October 26, 2017 – October 28, 2017 at the RC Theatres, 1803 N Croatan Hwy. Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948.

Harvest HayDay at the Elizabethan Gardens

For something on the other end of the spectrum for the fall season, visit the Harvest HayDay at the Elizabethan Gardens. It’s all about family friendly activities, games, contests, and surprises at the Harvest HayDay. Children under 14 can come in free with an adult. There’s plenty to absorb for all ages, including face painting, corn hole games, make-your-own scarecrow activities, a piñata, and even a trip on a hayride through the most secretive little spots in the gardens.

The event is Oct 28^th, and the doors open at 10am. You will find bristles of hay, big gardens, and many activities at Elizabethan Gardens , 1411 National Park Drive, Manteo, NC 27954.

The Wanchese Woods Haunted Trail

Every season, someone in the family has the brilliant idea to go on a haunted trail. And every year, someone gets just enough nerve to come along only to be subjected to some of the most eccentric and unsettling scares in the city.

The Wanchese Woods Haunted Trail is off the beaten path, quite literally. Due to its remote location and quietly subdued scale, the trail only accepts cash. For that adventure you are hesitant to go on because you might not come out the same person, this is for you. You can follow the trail at 1101 Er Daniels Rd, Wanchese, NC 27981. It is open only Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm for the month of October.

Experience Halloween in the Outer Banks

The above are some of the best-kept little adventures in the Outer Banks. From family friendly affairs under the quiet fall sun to the “only open at dark” avenues of the mysterious, and a plethora of amenity filled Outer Banks vacation rentals, the region is one of the most iconic East Coast vacation spots.