10/30/2024
Seeing how the holidays transform Hatteras Island into a magical wonderland is something you must experience for yourself. You are bound to get into the spirit of the holiday with Hatteras Island’s festive lights, community parades, and unique coastal traditions. Come soak up all the cheerful Christmas vibes by visiting these top places to view Christmas lights and displays. Consider also booking a vacation rental with Midgett Realty so that you’ll be perfectly central to all the area’s holiday activities. Here’s a guide to the best Christmas lights and displays to catch this season when you visit Hatteras Island:
WinterLights at the Historic Elizabethan Gardens
One of the most breathtaking holiday displays near Hatteras Island is the WinterLights at the Historic Elizabethan Gardens in Manteo. This annual event turns the already stunning gardens into a winter wonderland, draped with thousands of shimmering lights. Stroll through twinkling paths surrounded by illuminated trees, topiaries, and fountains.
The seasonal decorations are sure to make you smile, as they add to the garden’s beauty. Lit-up reindeer, holiday wreaths, and glowing sculptures capture the wonder of the season. Warm up a little by the open-air fire pits and enjoy refreshments like hot chocolate while enjoying the holiday fun.
Kites With Lights in Nags Head
For a different approach to seeing holiday lights light up the sky, head over to Kites With Lights in Nags Head at Jockey’s Ridge State Park. You’ll be amazed when you see these large holiday-themed kites as they’re flown over the massive sand dunes of the park – twinkling against the night sky.
This event combines the fun of kite flying, the magic of Christmas lights, and the playful spirit of the Outer Banks! In addition to the kites, the event features a light display on the dunes and a visit from Santa Claus himself.
Hatteras Village Christmas Parade
The Hatteras Village Christmas Parade is a slice small-town holiday cheer. Don’t miss this lively event that brings the whole Hatteras Island community together to celebrate. Plenty of local businesses join in on the fun as the parade winds through the streets of Hatteras Village. Floats and firetrucks are decked out in holiday décor, and you might catch a glimpse of Santa riding in on a boat or waving from a float!
Grab a spot on the sidelines to enjoy the festive music, candy tosses, and holiday vibes. You’ll be immersing yourself in the close-knit community of Hatteras Island when you stop by the Hatteras Village Christmas Parade.
Christmas on the North End at Island Farm
Take a journey to the past by visiting Island Farm’s Christmas on the North End. This historic farm, located on Roanoke Island, gives you the opportunity to step back in time and experience what Christmas was like in the 1800s! During the holiday season, the farm is adorned with festive decorations, and visitors can take part in old-fashioned holiday traditions.
Holiday activities include making traditional Christmas crafts, enjoying warm cider by the fire, and experiencing holiday stories from costumed interpreters who bring the history of the farm to life. It’s a hidden gem, giving you a quieter, more reflective way to celebrate the season and learn about the local heritage of the area.
Town of Manteo Christmas Tree Lighting & Christmas Parade
Rounding out this list of holiday lights and displays in Hatteras Island is the Town of Manteo’s Christmas Tree Lighting & Christmas Parade. This is one of the area’s most anticipated events of the season– with live music, carolers, and a visit from Santa! It’s held annually at the town’s waterfront and kicks off with the lighting of the town’s massive Christmas tree.
The next day, the town hosts its Christmas Parade, with festive floats, decorated vehicles, and Christmas spirit in full effect. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped onto the set of a holiday movie, with all this small-town charm and holiday fun.
Visit Hatteras Island and Make Your Home for the Holidays with Midgett Realty
Choosing to stay in a vacation rental through Midgett Realty during your holiday visit to Hatteras Island means you’ll be central to these Christmas lights and displays, while immersing yourself in the beauty of the Outer Banks.
Staying in a Hatteras Island vacation rental from Midgett Realty gives you the perfect holiday home baser for strolling through WinterLights, watching kites illuminate the night sky, or enjoying the Christmas parades and tree lighting ceremonies.
Enjoy the comfort of a holiday home away from home with ocean views, a full kitchen for holiday meals, and plenty of space to relax in after a day of exploring festive lights and displays. Pack your Christmas spirit and make your Hatteras Island holiday merry and bright with Midgett Realty! Reach out today to reserve your stay.