Week of December 9, 2024 - December 15, 2024

  • Friday, December 13th - Sunday, December 15th
Morehead City

Come explore a winter wonderland of holiday sights, sounds, and smells at this festive event that is celebrating its 10th year in 2023. The annual Gingerbread Festival & Competition is a fun and all-encompassing celebration that has incredible gingerbread displays, fun crafts and activities for the kids, and lots of ways to celebrate the holidays in style while admiring some of the most unique and creative gingerbread creations that the Crystal Coast has to offer.

  • Saturday, December 14th 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Beaufort

The summertime Beaufort Farmer’s Market is revitalized for the holidays at this special annual event that combines Christmas shopping, local fare, kids’ activities, and plenty of community spirit. The Old Fashioned Holiday Farmer’s Market is celebrating its 10th year in 2024, and is a delightful opportunity to connect with local fishermen, bakers, craftsmen, artists, and vendors of all varieties to load up on unique holiday presents, or to take home some goodies of your own.

Week of January 27, 2025 - February 2, 2025

  • Saturday, February 1st - Sunday, February 2nd
Morehead City

A favorite celebration for more than 15 years, the annual Carolina Chocolate Festival is a welcome event for food lovers who want to indulge a sweet tooth in seemingly endless ways in the heart of the Crystal Coast. Held at the Crystal Coast Civic Center in Morehead City, and overflowing with activities that can range from tastings to spa trips, the Carolina Chocolate Festival is a decadent celebration that shows how sweet life can be along the beach.

Week of February 24, 2025 - March 2, 2025

  • Friday, February 28th - Sunday, March 2nd
Beaufort

No need to travel to New Orleans for a taste of Mardi Gras – a celebration is waiting close to home in the town of Beaufort, North Carolina! Mardi Gras on Middle Lane is an enticing afternoon event that pays homage to the grand annual party with an array of ways to have fun for visitors of all ages. From activities for the kids, to live Cajun music and jazz, there will be a fun party atmosphere throughout at the Mardi Gras on Middle Lane event.

Week of March 10, 2025 - March 16, 2025

  • Saturday, March 15th
Emerald Isle

Visitors of all ages will have a ball at the Emerald Isle St. Patrick’s Festival, which is an annual celebration that has become one of the most anticipated events of the springtime season. Going strong for more than 25 years, the Emerald Isle St. Patrick’s Festival features a wealth of food, arts and craft vendors, rides, and activities for kids, which will all combine to get attendees into a festive holiday spirit.

Week of June 9, 2025 - June 15, 2025

  • Saturday, June 14th 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Swansboro

There’s a host of reasons to explore a creative side, as well as the picturesque Swansboro waterfront, at the Swansboro Arts by the Sea Festival. This unique and day-long festival has a wealth of activities, entertainment and enticements for everyone in the family, and with plenty of food, crafts, children’s activities, shopping opportunities and more, the festival is sure to be a highlight of any Crystal Coast vacation.

Week of July 7, 2025 - July 13, 2025

  • Saturday, July 12th 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Beaufort

Head to one of Beaufort’s favorite local landmarks for one of the most festive and anticipated parties of the year. The Beaufort Historic Association's Summer Party is an annual celebration that features an enchanting atmosphere complete with delicious food, an open bar, ample live music and dancing, auctions, and a host of ways to toast the summer while supporting a beloved local cause.

Week of November 10, 2025 - November 16, 2025

  • Saturday, November 15th 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Beaufort

The small town of Beaufort is renowned for its incredibly fresh seafood and unique coastal culture, and visitors can enjoy a hearty helping of both at this annual event that puts local cuisine in the spotlight. The Beaufort Wine & Food Oyster Roast highlights the region's renowned oysters and more, with an array of fresh and seasonal goodies that will cater to seafood lovers of all varieties.

Shackleford Banks Shelling & Wild Horse Expedition
Shackleford Wild Horse & Shelling Safari
Lookout Cruises