A New Family Tradition: Spending The Holidays On The Outer Banks

Many families cherish their long-standing holiday traditions, while others look for new ways to create meaningful memories that last for generations. Spending the holidays in the Outer Banks of North Carolina is the perfect way to escape seasonal stress and enjoy a festive experience that’s entirely your own.

Whether you're searching for Outer Banks holiday rentals for a cozy winter escape or planning an Outer Banks winter vacation filled with festive activities, the OBX offers something for everyone. From OBX Christmas events to unique things to do in the Outer Banks in December, you’ll quickly discover why locals love adding an oceanside twist to classic holiday traditions.

Come experience the magic of the Outer Banks during the holidays and start a new tradition your family will look forward to year after year.

Even though it’s the off-season for beach days, the Outer Banks comes alive during the holidays! From festive holiday markets and spirited bar crawls to dazzling Christmas light tours and cheerful local parades, there’s no shortage of things to do on the OBX this time of year. You won’t want to miss signature seasonal happenings like Winter Lights at the Elizabethan Gardens, the lively 12 Bars of Christmas Bar Crawl, or Meet Me in Manteo to ring in the New Year.

Looking for the best Outer Banks holiday events? Explore our comprehensive holiday events blog to discover everything happening on the OBX throughout the season.

Celebrate the holidays in the Outer Banks with a trip to Christmas in Corolla, where your family can step back to the 1920s at the beautifully decorated Whalehead House. Enjoy a candlelight tour of the historic mansion, featuring a stunning collection of Christmas trees decorated by local Currituck students. While exploring the property, don’t miss the Currituck Beach Lighthouse and the historic Lighthouse Keepers’ Home—perfect spots for festive photos and holiday memories.

For an even more historic holiday experience, Christmas Past at Island Farm transports visitors to the 1850s with hands-on activities. Prepare and taste traditional dishes from an authentic 1850s-style dinner, ride in an ox-drawn wagon, and take part in crafting activities like decorating a Christmas tree, making candles, or creating cornhusk dolls to take home. Children can enjoy a fireside Christmas story and candlelit tours of the house and slave cabin, making this a truly immersive Outer Banks Christmas event for the whole family.

The holidays in the Outer Banks are the perfect time to relax, celebrate, and enjoy amazing food—without worrying about crowded kitchens at home. Luckily, there are plenty of OBX restaurants open on Christmas and New Years, so you can savor a festive meal while soaking in the coastal charm. From fresh local seafood and hearty comfort foods to holiday-themed specials, the Outer Banks offers a wide variety of options for families, couples, and friends looking to dine out during the season. Whether you’re planning a Christmas feast, a New Year’s celebration, or simply want a memorable meal while exploring the OBX, knowing which restaurants in the Outer Banks are open for the holidays makes your trip easier and more enjoyable!

Booking an  Outer Banks vacation rental instead of a hotel gives you the freedom to celebrate the holidays exactly the way you want. Snuggle up on the couch with mugs of hot cocoa or apple cider, bake Christmas cookies in a fully equipped kitchen, prepare a full holiday feast for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or raise your glasses over the oceanfront views to New Year’s, all from the comfort and privacy of your OBX rental.

From falling asleep in front of the TV after a big Thanksgiving meal to watching kids zip down the hall on Christmas morning to see what Santa brought, your OBX holiday rental lets you enjoy the season at your own pace. Whether you’re planning a festive Outer Banks Christmas getaway, a cozy Thanksgiving retreat, or ringing in the New Year with family, your private Outer Banks Blue rental provides the perfect homey setting for a memorable holiday in the Outer Banks.

This holiday season, you can find a home with a fireplace to create cozy & festive memories.

Don't leave your bathing suit at home this winter! Find your perfect home with a hot tub.