Community Calendar

Kick off the holiday season at the Emerald Isle Christmas Parade, held annually on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. This festive family event promises a cheerful display of colorful floats, holiday-themed characters, marching bands, and more.

Enjoy an unforgettable celebration filled with joyful holiday hits and plenty of musical sparkle to brighten your season.

North Carolina Symphony
Sophie Mok, conductor

Core Sound Waterfowl Weekend is a lively celebration of Down East traditions, community, and good old fashioned island hospitality. The weekend kicks off with the Island’s Bring Back the Lights opening night, setting the stage for a full weekend of fun. The first weekend of December has become a beloved island homecoming, featuring the Decoy Festival at the school, local craft sales, yard sales, talented artists and carvers, and plenty of friendly faces along the way.

Come hungry because Saturday brings plenty to enjoy, from scallop fritters and sweet puppies to local treats and Down East favorites. Browse unique handmade crafts, watch talented carvers at work, bid in the online auction, and soak up the welcoming spirit of the community. Then, slow things down Sunday morning with a traditional church service and a true taste of Down East life.

Join the Town of Atlantic Beach for the annual 'Light Up the Night' Christmas Parade. Enjoy an after party with Santa at the Atlantic Beach Fire Department.

Harkers Island comes to life the first full weekend in December each year as the Core Sound Decoy Guild holds its annual Core Sound Decoy Festival. The first festival was held in 1988 and it has become an annual pilgrimage for many.

The festival has many attractions that include antique decoy exhibits, retriever demonstrations, and several types of competitions including decoys, shorebirds, head whittling. There’s always plenty of shopping opportunities from the many vendors who flock to the festival each year plus delicious food offerings.

December 5 - 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
December 6 - 10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Get ready to light up the waterfront!

Join the Friends of the Maritime Museum for their annual Holiday Flotilla, where the waterways come alive with holiday magic!

Watch as yachts, boats, kayaks and commercial vessels decked out in dazzling lights and festive decorations cruise along the Crystal Coast waterfront. Gather your family and friends, find the perfect viewing spot and enjoy a spectacular holiday parade on the water!

Morehead City Waterfront: 5:30 p.m.
Beaufort Waterfront: 6:15 p.m.

It’s a beloved holiday tradition you won’t want to miss! Come watch the Crystal Coast sparkle and celebrate the season with a spectacular parade on the water.

Core Sound Waterfowl Weekend is a lively celebration of Down East traditions, community, and good old fashioned island hospitality. The weekend kicks off with the Island’s Bring Back the Lights opening night, setting the stage for a full weekend of fun. The first weekend of December has become a beloved island homecoming, featuring the Decoy Festival at the school, local craft sales, yard sales, talented artists and carvers, and plenty of friendly faces along the way.

Come hungry because Saturday brings plenty to enjoy, from scallop fritters and sweet puppies to local treats and Down East favorites. Browse unique handmade crafts, watch talented carvers at work, bid in the online auction, and soak up the welcoming spirit of the community. Then, slow things down Sunday morning with a traditional church service and a true taste of Down East life.

Harkers Island comes to life the first full weekend in December each year as the Core Sound Decoy Guild holds its annual Core Sound Decoy Festival. The first festival was held in 1988 and it has become an annual pilgrimage for many.

The festival has many attractions that include antique decoy exhibits, retriever demonstrations, and several types of competitions including decoys, shorebirds, head whittling. There’s always plenty of shopping opportunities from the many vendors who flock to the festival each year plus delicious food offerings.

December 5 - 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
December 6 - 10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Join the Town of Newport for the 51st Annual Newport Christmas Parade. Enjoy festive local floats, marching bands, community and a special appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus!

Core Sound Waterfowl Weekend is a lively celebration of Down East traditions, community, and good old fashioned island hospitality. The weekend kicks off with the Island’s Bring Back the Lights opening night, setting the stage for a full weekend of fun. The first weekend of December has become a beloved island homecoming, featuring the Decoy Festival at the school, local craft sales, yard sales, talented artists and carvers, and plenty of friendly faces along the way.

Come hungry because Saturday brings plenty to enjoy, from scallop fritters and sweet puppies to local treats and Down East favorites. Browse unique handmade crafts, watch talented carvers at work, bid in the online auction, and soak up the welcoming spirit of the community. Then, slow things down Sunday morning with a traditional church service and a true taste of Down East life.