The Manteo Christmas Parade 2026 is a festive celebration featuring dazzling floats, joyful music, and community spirit that lights up the town each holiday season. This beloved event draws locals and visitors alike to enjoy a vibrant display of Christmas cheer along the streets of Manteo. If you want to join in on the fun and see what makes this parade so special, keep reading for everything you need to know about attending and participating in the festivities.
Annual Manteo Christmas Parade
Keep the holiday spirit going after the annual Christmas Tree Lighting the night before with the Annual Christmas Parade in Manteo! Get ready to see floats, marching bands, and of course, the man of the hour himself – Santa! The parade route winds its way through the streets of downtown beginning at Manteo High School and ending on the other side of the new College of the Albemarle campus. Fabulous floats full of holiday cheer and wonderful community spirit are always something to see each and every year!
Portions of Budleigh Street and Sir Walter Raleigh Street will be closed for the parade while all of Queen Elizabeth Avenue and Fernando Streets will also be closed. The parade map can be found here.
An Outer Banks Christmas
Planning a holiday trip to the Outer Banks? You may think the OBX completely closes down after Labor Day, but you are mistaken. There are plenty of ways to celebrate Christmas on the Outer Banks in 2025. While many restaurants and shops close their doors and shutters for the winter months, there is still a large local year-round crowd, which means activities, shopping, and events throughout the holiday season!
Fresh-cut Western North Carolina Christmas trees are available at the Christmas Tree Lot in Nags Head. Visit the Christmas tree lot or call (252) 207-3237. Gather the kids and start a new tradition of decorating your Outer Banks vacation home Christmas tree.
Outer Banks Manteo Christmas Parade; Outer Banks At Christmastime; OBX …
Need an Outer Banks Vacation Rental? Check us out. http://www.atlanticrealty-nc.com/ (877) 858-4795Looking for things to do on the Outer Banks at Christmas t…
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Upcoming Events
Believe it or not, it’s that time of year again which can only mean one thing—it’s time to plan an awesome holiday vacation! And this year, there are plenty of amazing things to do on the Outer Banks to celebrate the holiday season. From Christmas Markets to parades, you’ll want to book your vacation rental on the Outer Banks for a holiday getaway to remember!
About: As the holiday season approaches, there’s no better time to spread the spirit of giving and make a meaningful impact on our local community. At Seaside Vacations, we believe in the power of coming together to support those in need. That’s why we’re excited to announce our Annual Seaside Cares Holiday Drive Trifecta supporting our Seaside Cares initiatives in the local community. We will be participating in three (3) local donation drive initiatives to support those in need! Learn more here.
Annual Outer Banks Holiday Events – Updated for 2026 | Outer Banks …
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The Town of Manteo celebrated Christmas at First Friday in true Elizabethan style. Every first Friday of the month by the waterfront in Manteo, locals and vacationers gather to socialize and enjoy the family friendly atmosphere. This year was no different. The night began with a large bonfire in the street. The bonfire kept everyone warm! Free Hot chocolate and hot cider was given out to help combat the chilly tempartures. The Grand Illumination of the town Christmas tree and the annual Christmas showcase took place in front of the old Dare County Courthouse and the 2010 theme Christmas by the Sea was showcased throughout. The night began with a large bonfire in the street. The bonfire kept everyone warm! Free Hot chocolate and hot cider was given out to help combat the chilly temperatures.
The showcase was truly magical. Lasting over an hour, Queen Elizabeth, Sir Walter Raliegh and Santa all made appearances. And everyone’s favorite Christmas carols were sang throughout the evening. Check out this video below to see the highlights.
‘My goal is to find out where the struggles are’ | Island Free Press
The November 2 selection of Steve Basnight as Dare County’s new superintendent of schools marked a homecoming for an educator who had spent nearly three decades in the Dare Schools system before moving on a decade ago to continue his career in Currituck and Hyde counties.
The decision to apply for the job, which Basnight acknowledged was a very difficult one, came after a series of dramatic, and in some cases, tragic events. Two days before he retired as Hyde County Schools Superintendent on March 31, Basnight learned that his mother Carolyn had suffered a very serious stroke. Less than a month later, while driving with his father, Steven Jr.—a former Dare County Schools Superintendent himself—to visit his mother, an accident claimed his dad’s life and put Steve in the hospital with serious injuries.
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Celebrate start of Christmas season with Kitty Hawk Kites crew at Jockey’s Ridge State Park. Featured are 19- to 30-foot kites decorated and lit for holiday season. 4-7 p.m. Free admission. 300 W. Carolista Drive, Nags Head.
Annual tree lighting on Friday and the town’s 50th annual Christmas parade on Saturday. Parade begins at 10:30 a.m. at Manteo High School, winds through town, and ends at the College of the Albemarle’s campus parking lots. Free admission.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When will the Manteo Christmas Parade 2026 take place?
The Manteo Christmas Parade 2026 is typically held in early December, but the exact date will be announced closer to the event. It’s best to check the official Manteo town website for the most current information.
Where does the parade route run in Manteo?
The parade usually follows a main route through downtown Manteo, showcasing decorated floats, marching bands, and festive participants. Specific start and end points will be provided with event details.
Is the Manteo Christmas Parade suitable for families?
Yes, the parade is a family-friendly event with activities and entertainment that appeal to all ages, making it a perfect holiday outing for families.
Can local groups or businesses participate in the parade?
Local groups, schools, and businesses are often invited to join the parade by submitting an application or contacting the event organizers. Participation guidelines are usually available on the official event page.
Are there any additional Christmas events in Manteo during the parade?
Yes, the parade is part of a larger holiday celebration that may include Christmas markets, live music, and festive food vendors. Details about other events typically accompany the parade announcements.