OUTER BANKS MILEPOST: ISSUE 14.3

GEARED UP! TO GET DOWN

startingpoint

outthere gohunt rearview gosurf

Or, at least, I’m not much of a “new gear” head. My surfboards are all 100 percent polyester. My favorite fins are pure fiberglass. The guitar I play is nearly 40 years old, and my favorite amp is pushing 60. I love the old-fashioned craftsmanship of a hand-rolled joint — and hate the sensation of a newfangled vape pen. Hell, my go-to beer still brags about winning a blue ribbon back in 1893. In fact, if I had my way, the world would never see another carbon-fiber whatchamacallit or silicon thingamajig with Intel inside.

photofinish

Luckily, most of the planet lives for spaceage advances. Including the Outer Banks. Oh, sure, we may long for the old days when it comes to population figures, traffic patterns and timeless traditions — bring out Old Buck! — but when it comes to the day-to-day passions that get our hearts pumping and brains buzzing, we’ll gladly plow headlong into the future.

The same angler you see stepping out of his 20-year-old truck in a motheaten

hoodie also has a next-generation fish finder strapped to his rotomolded polyethylene kayak. That slacker hipster cyclist cruising between bars likely spent 16 hours researching what foam lines the saddle under his butt. And while duck hunters may fill their bookshelves with hand-carved root heads and cling to firearms that reach back a few decades, their cold-weather outerwear is made from the hottest materials known to man.

Even our homegrown businesses are industry leaders. This tiny brewery can craft and can anything from sours to seltzers. That backyard surfboard-maker can vacuum-bag epoxy like a styrene Einstein. Our two tiniest cycleries stock frames and wheels so mind-bogglingly light, they’d set the Wright Bros.’ heads spinning. And our biggest windsports outfits? They don’t just send thousands of action sports enthusiasts soaring over the water — they harness the internet to max global sales in the millions.

And the rest of us? Well, the rest of us can in. — Matt Walker

Thank you for reading Outer Banks Milepost. We hope you enjoy it. If not — before chucking this issue into the nearest dumpster — please consider one of the following equally satisfying ways of expressing your disgust: build your own time machine and ship it 1000 years into the future; even better, carry it back to caveman days, then use it to invent fire. Or just toss it on that 6-month pile of newspapers you’ve yet to recycle. (Trust us, you’ll feel better.) Then, send any and all feedback — positive, negative or just plain confused — to: editor@outerbanksmilepost.com. We promise to find some way to re-purpose them.

“You get a line and I’ll get a pole, honey....” — Traditional “It’s easier to put on slippers than it is to carpet the whole world.” — Al Franken Issue 14.3

Fall 2025

Cover: Geared to the gills.

Photo: Daniel Pullen

Carnell Boyle, Jared Cera, George Cheeseman, Marcia Cline, Carolina Coto, Kim Cowen, Cloey Davis, Michael J. Davis, Fay Davis Edwards, Mary Edwards, Laine Edwards, Marc Felton, Janet Fenton, Travis Fowler, Adriana Gomez-Nichols, Amelia Kasten, Chris Kemp, Nathan Lawrenson, Dave Lekens, Tim Lusk, Elisa McVearry, Ben Miller, Dawn Moraga, Ben Morris, Holly Nettles, Stella Nettles, Rick Nilson, Barbara Noel, Holly Overton, Stuart Parks II, James Perry, Charlotte Quinn, Meg Rubino, Shirley Ruff, Amy Snowden, Noah Snyder, Rob Snyder, Janet Stapelman, Alyse Stewart, Willow Temple, Kenneth Templeton, Stephen Templeton, Shane Thomas, George Tsonev, CW, Christina Weisner, Chris Wheeler, John Wilson, Mark Wiseman, Bri Young, Mike Zafra Lensfolk

Nate Appel, Matt Artz, Nathan Beane, Chris Bickford, Russell Blackwood, Mike Booher, Don Bower, Aycock Brown, Mark Buckler, Jon Carter, Rich Coleman, Marc Corbett, Kim Cowen, Chris Creighton, Mere Crockett, Benny Crum, Jason Denson, Amy Dixon, Susan Dotterer Dixon, Lori Douglas, Julie Dreelin, Tom Dugan/ ESM, Roy Edlund, Bryan Elkus, Ben Gallop, Cory Godwin, Treveon Govan, Michael Halminski, Cody Hammer, Chris Hannant, Katie Harms, Bryan Harvey, David Alan Harvey, Ginger Harvey, Bob Hovey, Biff Jennings, Jenni Koontz, Daryl Law, Mike Leech, Anthony Leone, Jeff Lewis, Jared Lloyd, Matt Lusk, Ray Matthews, Brooke Mayo, Mickey McCarthy, Nic McLean, Roger Meekins, D. Victor Meekins, Richard L. Miller, Dick Meseroll/ESM, Ashley Milteer, David Molnar, Rachel Moser, Ryan Moser, Elizabeth Neal, Rob Nelson, Candace Owens, Anne Snape Parsons, Crystal Polston, Daniel Pullen, Cal Ramsey, Ryan Rhodes, Casey Robertson, Terry Rowell, Cyndi Goetcheus Sarfan, Katie Slater, Tom Sloate, Wes Snyder, David Thomas, Ed Tupper, Eve Turek, Chris Updegrave, Dan Waters, Kati Wilkins, Cyrus Welch, Jay Wickens, Cody Wright Penfolk Ashley Bahen, Madeline Bailey, Sarah Downing, Ty Evans, Laura Gomez-Nichols, Jim Gould, Steve Hanf, Sam Harriss, Sarah Hyde, Catherine Kozak, Katrina Leuzinger Owens, Dan Lewis, Michelle Lewis, Terri Mackleberry, Fran Marler, Amanda McDanel, Maggie Miles, Matt Pruett, Mary Ellen Riddle, Peter Graves Roberts, Arabella Saunders, Corinne Saunders, Shannon Sutton, Kip Tabb, Brian Tress, Emmy Trivette, Kathleen Wasniewski, Hannah West, Clumpy White, Sharon Whitehurst, Natalie Wolfe, Michele Young-Stone

Pointing/Clicking

Jesse Davis

Blame It All On

P Inc. PO Box 7100 • KDH, NC 27948 Office: 252-441-6203 • Sales: 949-275-5115

editor@outerbanksmilepost.com • sales@outerbanksmilepost.com

Outer Banks Milepost is published quarterly (sorterly) by Suite P Inc. All contents are the property of Suite P Inc. and do not reflect the opinion of advertisers or distributors. Nor do their contents reflect that of the creative types (who would never, ever sell out). Comments, letters and submissions are usually welcome. Please include SASE for return delivery of all snail mail, however, Milepost and Suite P Inc. still aren’t responsible for any unsolicited materials. And don’t expect much else to move much faster than IST (Island Standard Time). Oh yeah: if you reprint a lick of this content you’re ripping us off. (Shame on you.) To discuss editorial ideas, find out about advertising or tell us we blew it – or just find out what the waves are doing – call 252-441-6203 or email: editor@outerbanksmilepost.com; sales@outerbanksmilepost.com.

“It’s kind of weird to paint around here. Because it’s all so flat. There are no mountains, no hills. Just a horizon line and a body of water. But I still never run out of subject matter, because the Outer Banks has so many different little regions. Roanoke Island has the waterfront and Downtown Manteo. Kitty Hawk and Nags Head have cottages and the beach. Hatteras Island has dunes and bridges...and so on. Actually, the hardest part for me is deciding what to paint. I’ll get so overstimulated driving around — “Look over here, and here, and here!” — that the people behind me get annoyed waiting for me to pull over. [laughs] But, occasionally — occasionally — I head out knowing exactly what I’m going to do. In this case, I knew I wanted to paint some marsh on the side of NC 12, because it was a gorgeous morning and the sun was right. And because I’d had a few calls to paint some more marshes. That made my decision a lot easier. [laughs]” — Marcia Cline

TOTAL DISASTER? OR NO BIG DEAL?

What

do federal budget cuts mean for coastal hurricane prep and recovery?

You might call it the storm before the storm season. In May, news broke that the Trump administration planned to cut dollars for the National Weather Service. Then came word they wanted to eliminate the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Between the two, the internet lit up with questions and concerns from coastal residents: what does this mean for forecasting as we head into hurricane season? How will it impact recovery efforts in the event of disaster?

Months later, it’s still not clear whether or how staff or budget cuts will affect operations in North Carolina, but when it comes to Dare County, officials say the weather wizards in Newport, NC, remain reliable as ever.

“I do know that our National Weather Service down in Newport-Morehead City is still answering every call we make to them and delivering unparalleled support, just like they’ve always done,” said Drew Pearson, Dare County’s Emergency Management Director, in a July 7 interview.

Still, while Pearson said he has no insight into personnel matters at the NWS or the National Hurricane Center, he did voice

concerns about potential loss of forecasting capabilities.

“I don’t know whether or not they’re working harder than they need to, because I don’t know how many folks they have or don’t have,” he continued. “But they’re a critical piece to our keeping the public safe here in the county.”

And they’re likely having to do it with less, after the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 federal budget called for a $1.3 billion decrease in funding for National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) core operations, including satellite and modeling programs that help the National Weather Service provide critical forecasting data.

The budget also called for the elimination of $200 million for improved weather forecasting and community resiliency; cuts of an additional $2.2 billion from NOAA, including the Office of Oceanic

and Atmospheric Research, NOAA’s main research laboratory; defunding $400 million for new hurricane hunter airplanes and slashing hunter flight hours in half. NOAA even plans to cut the popular national Sea Grant program.

According to the executive summary of the spending plan, the administration sees the

weather service changes as streamlining and updating, while maintaining essential services.

“The FY 2026 budget will better enable modernization of the NWS by prioritizing its core mission, restructuring the field, migrating its primary weather interactive processing system to the cloud, evolving

the radar program, and operationalizing AIbased numerical weather predictions,” the document says.

But, in a public Zoom briefing held on July 9 by Florida Democratic US Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, state leaders and weather experts lamented the serious consequences of the cuts to a broad range of multi-layered, integrated systems and tools to accurately monitor and forecast weather and climate — information that is important to the safety of every American.

According to Robert Atlas, who retired from NOAA in 2019, much of the improvements in hurricane tracking and intensity forecasts in recent years was thanks to research done at the Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory, one of the labs slated to be cut.

“The elimination of AOML and its cooperative institute at the University of Miami can have a very detrimental effect on hurricane forecasts for our nation,” he said on the call. “There would be no more scientific support for NOAA’s hurricane hunter missions, as well as for airborne drones and ocean gliders. All of this expertise exists in the hurricane Research Division and the physical oceanography divisions of AOML.”

The result? No more vital data would be assimilated into hurricane models or be available to forecasters, Atlas says. No more improvement and development of models like NOAA’s state-of-the-art analysis and hurricane forecast systems. Forecast accuracy would decrease 20 to 40 percent.

Wasserman Schultz was even more critical.

The Trump administration, she says, is seemingly “weakening our national resilience in the face of weather disasters that we know are going to come.”

And if a storm hits? There’s more uncertainty there, as the administration, in statements by both Trump and U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, has promised to either eliminate FEMA — the agency that is charged with disaster mitigation, response and recovery nationwide — or make the states carry more of the load.

“ THE BUDGET CALLED FOR A $1.3 BILLION DECREASE IN FUNDING FOR NOAA CORE OPERATIONS.

season, it had 1952.

Former FEMA Region 5 Administrator Tom Sivak, speaking during a zoom webinar on disaster relief cuts held on June 17 by the Center for American Progress, said that FEMA brings to the table subject matter expertise, experienced leadership, statutory authority, funding, and the immense resources of the federal government.

“The disaster response cycle starts local and ends local,” Sivak said. “One of the things that we looked at is that when these local incidents happen, local communities, depending on the size and complexity of that incident, may exceed their ability to respond.”

So how much should Outer Bankers worry about this year’s storm season? It’s hard to say. To date, much of the budget slashing and mass firings have been a moving target.

In fact, following the deadly July 4 flooding in Texas, Trump softened the goal from “eliminating” FEMA to “remaking” it. And, after Trump’s budget bill was passed by Congress in July, lawmakers were still discussing restoring portions of the NWS and Hurricane Center funds.

As a FEMA spokesperson told the New York Times in a May 21 article, the agency was “shifting from a bloated, DC-centric dead weight to a lean, deployable disaster force that empowers state actors to provide relief for their citizens.”

Whatever the position, the end result has been less funding — and fewer workers.

At the start of the 2017 hurricane season, FEMA had 6,588 available trained staff, according to the article. On May 21, a week before the start of the 2025 hurricane

In April, FEMA also ended the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant program. At the time, North Carolina was expecting $225 million in grants for 72 pending projects. The state joined with 19 other states in a lawsuit against the administration on July 16, demanding that the funds be maintained and that the program be restored.

Whatever the fate of FEMA, Pearson says that assistance for communities after a catastrophic event — such as debris removal and temporary housing — is going to have to come from somewhere.

“We just need to have it,” he says. “Whether the current administration decides FEMA is not needed any longer, we would just hope that they, along with the Congress, would still say these things are still needed across our nation.”

Erica Grow Cei, a NWS spokesperson, said in a July 14 email that the agency is in the process of hiring to fill critical operational roles, stating, “The National Weather Service continues to meet its core missions amid recent reorganization efforts and is taking steps to prioritize critical research and services that keep the American public safe and informed.”

Even if we could make sense of all the current uncertainty, ramifications of a diminished NWS and parochial FEMA might not be truly understood until we face the next real disaster. But, for now — at least in Dare County — the attitude is the same for every storm season: pay constant attention and respond accordingly.

“My trust and confidence rests with the National Weather Service,” Pearson says. “From the leadership on down to the forecaster in the seat at NewportMorehead City, I know they’re going to do everything they can to deliver the best product, and I’m certain as soon as they say they can’t do it any longer, they’ll tell us. And then we’ll figure out what to do about it.”

— Catherine Kozak

“Release the hounds!”

Photo: Aycock Brown/ Outer Banks History Center

“AND THEY’RE OFF!”

Looking back to when greyhounds did “donuts for dollars” in Eastern NC.

BEERS BURGERS BEATS BEERS BURGERS BEATS

The North Carolina coast has long been known for its recreational opportunities. Beachgoers, fishermen, surfers, birders, and history buffs visit year-round to take advantage of the state’s beaches, inlets, rivers, marshes, and national landmarks. However, for a brief span in the late 1940s, a more ethically questionable enticement captivated Eastern NC sports fans: dog racing.

Although the state legislature legalized parimutuel betting in Morehead City in 1939, plans to build a track were put on hold because of World War II. On June 30, 1948, the first venue finally opened in Morehead Bluffs, four miles from downtown Morehead City. It was built at a cost of $200,000 with a grandstand big enough to allow 3,500 spectators. And while some thought the endeavor wouldn’t last, the season ran through midSeptember, as thousands of fans couldn’t wait to cheer on greyhounds as they chased a mechanical rabbit — and hopefully cash in on a winning pick.

In fact, by the following year, the dirt roads to the parking lots were paved, and shrubs and landscaping added “for the pleasure, convenience, and comfort of the patrons.” Jack Riley, writing for the News and Observer, described a bustling scene:

“Grocery clerks from as far away as Raleigh, politicians even more distant, fashionably dressed women who spend their summers at the beach, low-bracket wage earners from a dozen counties and local fishermen bump elbows while placing their bets at the parimutuel windows and then crowding the track’s edge to shout encouragement to their favorites.”

In 1949, the North Carolina house approved a measure to create a Currituck Racing Commission and sanctioned betting in the state’s northeastern-most county. Soon, a track was under construction in Moyock, “1,000 yards south of the Virginia line,” set to be “the newest and most modern track in America,” according to the Carolina-Virginia Racing Association.

When it opened on September 3, more than 6,000 spectators placed a total of $57,000 in bets; the following day, fans wagered $45,000 on the sleek canines. And during its first four years, the track’s pre-tax haul was a whopping $4,825,614, of which Currituck County received 10 percent.

““GROCERY CLERKS... POLITICIANS... AND LOCAL FISHERMEN BUMP ELBOWS WHILE PLACING THEIR BETS.”

It was estimated that 65 to 70 percent of those frequenting the Moyock track weren’t even from North Carolina. Virginians, especially “personnel from the Navy bases at Norfolk and Portsmouth,”

were heading south to bet on the dogs, since The Commonwealth had outlawed gambling.

Despite the revenues, some were not so keen that betting was taking place and asked the General Assembly to intervene.

Reverend W.W. Finletor of the First Baptist Church in Elizabeth City claimed, “Moyock and North Carolina are being used as a place for Virginia to hang out her dirty linen.” Others, including journalist William Keith Saunders, opposed the sport based on the treatment of the dogs. He wrote of what he witnessed at the Cavalier Kennel Club in Virginia Beach before Virginia outlawed racing.

“That’s the cruelty of this dog-racing,” he wrote, “making a pack of dogs race their hearts out in pursuit of a rabbit which is not real and which they are led as a result of training methods, to believe they will catch and devour. It’s like telling little Johnnie you will give him an ice cream cone if he

will mow the grass, and then when he has finished you tell him you were only fooling. You see some excellent specimens of dog flesh at Virginia Beach, and great running. But if you really love dogs, greyhound racing will sicken you.”

The Carolina Racing Association and the Carolina-Virginia Racing Association owned and managed the facilities in Morehead and Moyock, respectively. In 1954, both were ordered to cease operations following a ruling by the state Supreme Court, which found that the acts which established the tracks and allowed parimutuel betting were unconstitutional and went against “the principal of equal rights and opportunities for all, special privileges to none.”

Both dog tracks were ultimately repurposed, and by 1963 Grand National stock car auto racing found a home in Currituck County at the Dog Track Speedway. The inaugural contest, dubbed the Dog Track 300, was later changed to the Moyock 300. It attracted racing legends such as Ned Jarrett, Richard Petty, and Fred Lorenzen.

Today, dog racing has been outlawed in all but a handful of states. And while both of Eastern NC’s early racetracks were torn down in the 1970s, thrill-seekers can still zoom over to Currituck and watch monster trucks and riding mowers do donuts at Dennis Anderson’s Muddy Motorsports Park. — Sarah Downing

Sources: “Betting Ban is Petitioned,” The (Hendersonville, N.C.) News-Times, Apr. 8,1953; “Carteret Allows its Visitors to Gamble,” News and Observer, Sept. 5,1948; “Ministers Ask Action Against Dog Racing Track,” The Robesonian, May 12, 1954; Saunders, William Keith, “Grey Hound Racing Offers you a Chance to Lose your Shirt,” The Independent, July 26,1935; Stick, David, “Dog Racing” NCpedia, Encyclopedia of North Carolina, University of North Carolina Press (https://www.ncpedia.org/dog-racing); “6,000 Attend opening of Currituck Dog Track,” Carteret County News Times, Sept. 6, 1949.

FROM S.T.E.M. TO STERN

What do you get when you combine science, teamwork, engineering, and maritime culture? A one-of-kind learning experience — and a handcrafted boat. In late May, a Manteo Middle School STEM Class successfully launched their maiden vessel — the “First Class” — a 16foot skiff they designed and constructed all by themselves. (With some guidance from Glenn Bradley.) Even better, in July, the Dare County Boat Builders auctioned it off so the class would have funds to float this coming year’s project.

TOTS FOR TOYS

Now dig this! After regularly finding plastic shovels and pails during monthly beach-clean-ups at Bonnett Street, the little Einsteins at Outer Banks Montessori

Collective had a genius idea: “Why not build a beach toy library for the access?” Now, visiting families can borrow gear to play in the sand — while litter gatherers can recycle toys for future use — and the students get valuable lessons in painting and giving back to the community. The kind of lifelong learning experiences that don’t easily wash away.

SCHOOLED!

In late June, Raleigh learned just how hard coastal communities can fight when it comes to protecting our livelihoods. When word broke that a potential shrimp trawling ban was up for a vote, commercial fishermen blitzed the capitol for days, ultimately killing the legislation. Within a week, Dare County announced plans to form a Coastal Fisheries Coalition and — as of press time — 13 of 19 counties had combined forces so we can better fend off future threats.

YOU’LL

HAVE TO HOLD IT JUST A LITTLE LONGER...

Everybody pees in the sea. But what do you do when you gotta go “number 2” at “the First”? (A.K.A Buxton’s Old Lighthouse Beach.) Well, for years it meant dropping trou in a pretty shoddy — and quite stinky — collection of port o’potties. So when OBX Forever and the NPS announced in July ’24 they’d secured funds to help build a newfangled, concrete commode-andshower combo, the community nearly crapped themselves! (Metaphorically speaking.) Unfortunately, the project got delayed to June ’26 — at the latest — so you’ll have to pinch that thought for at least a few more months.

HUNGRY FOR HELP

“Please, sir, can we have some more...?” That seems to be the sentiment among local non-profits, as recent inflation and economic uncertainty has led to a rise in demand and a drop in donations. In

June, Beach Food Pantry literally had to go on Facebook to solicit canned goods and funds, while the Outer Banks Relief Foundation noted “[Individual] donors are… slightly down.” And while organizers note they’ve been able to fill the gap with corporate sponsors and dollars, they emphasize every dollar still counts. And it’ll count even more as we head into the offseason.

DO AS I SAY, NOT AS I DO?

They say that “actions speak louder than words.” They also say that “money talks.” So, we’ll let you decide how to interpret these recent events. In July, we learned that the federal government was fixing “to review, and possibly remove or alter, signs about how climate change is causing sea levels to rise” inside Cape Hatteras National Seashore. But, five days later, the state announced that Outer Banks communities would get $735K in state grants for coastal resilience projects —

including a living shoreline for Rodanthe’s Harbor on Hatteras Island — as part of a long-term strategy to survive a changing climate. If only sea walls were made of irony — we’d be fixed for life!

CAST AWAY!

They also say “no man is an island” — even on a barrier island — so you better go vote in Nov. 4’ s municipal elections, where at least three local mayors aren’t seeking re-election, and every town but two has multiple commissioners battling for limited seats. Because the local level seems to be the last place where decisionmakers are looking out for constituents. And as long as we’re stuck together on this strip of sand, we might as well make it a better place to live.

THE HORROR! THE HORROR!

Jaws. Godzilla. The Kraken. Those sea monsters ain’t got nothin’ on “The Sheening” — aka the petroleum slick

that haunted Buxton Beach for close to two years, until locals screamed so loud that the Army Corps of Engineers spent last fall and winter removing nasty sand and sources so folks could safely swim as of June. Well, in early Aug., a noreaster scoured the sandy depths of the former Navy site to release fresh horrors, prompting the NPS to close the beach again. With another stormy winter ahead, we can only hope the Army Corps finds the “silver bullet” to clean up this mess  — and quick — before some restless villagers reach for their torches and pitchforks.

For detailed reports on these stories and breaking local news on a daily basis — plus plenty of local discussion — visit www.outerbanksvoice.com, www. islandfreepress.org, www.coastalreview. org, www.samwalkerOBXnews.com, www.outerbanksnews.org, and www. thecoastlandtimes.com.

SMART-ASS COMMENT OF THE MONTH

“So does this mean they’ll have to move the lighthouse back to its old spot?”

— Jeff Walker

“Cape Hatteras National Seashore Under Review for Content About Sea Rise, Climate Change,” OuterBanksVoice.com, July 24, 2025

DEAR SCABBY

Local advice from an OBgenXer who’s seen a thing or two — and has the scars to prove it.

Dear Scabby,

As a longtime renter in Colington, I feel like we’ve gotten pretty damn lucky the last few hurricane seasons here on the OBX, but a really bad storm is imminent. I’ve never evacuated to the mainland before, but if I must, where should I go? — Jake, Colington Harbour

Where to go isn’t nearly as important as when to go. One thing people often forget about landfalling storms is that a lot of the deaths actually happen in traffic. People wait too long, leave too late, get stranded on some flooded Intracoastal Waterway-adjacent highway and become sitting ducks in a chaotic, projectilecatapulting hellscape. Also, the impacts from a major storm are often widespread — especially in a low, flat, wet place like eastern North Carolina — so you’ve gotta drive pretty far inland to escape the madness. Otherwise, you could actually end up dealing with worse conditions than what’s happening right here on the beach. Imagine being crammed in some sweltering Hampton Roads hotel for a week with no power or internet along with a hundred other strangers with the same idea. Nightmare, right?

So, if you’re gonna leave, leave early. And, honestly, as backwards as this might sound, I’d consider Asheville, which is currently open for business and courting visitors in a big way. Hurricane Helene’s devastation of that area was unlikely, unexpected and unprecedented — mere testament that natural disasters can happen anywhere, anytime in these dark days of Climate A.D. Plus, those communities are still hurting a year later. Any Outer Banker can agree that the best way for a town to recover from a storm is to reopen for business. Besides, Asheville is stunningly gorgeous this time of year, and there’s a good chance a landfalling hurricane on the coast will coincide with that polychromatic fall foliage way out yonder in Western NC. Go have a vacation. Catch a vibe. Make some friends. Then come back home and get to work helping your neighbors recover.

Yo Scabs,

What’s the deal with all these Surfline cams blowing up my spot? — Chris, Kill Devil Hills

Sorry, did you just call me “Scabs”? Did we share a foxhole somewhere? Is there a friendship bracelet I don’t know about? The name’s Scabby, dude — it’s right there at the top of the page. To answer your question, it’s not your spot. It’s not Surfline’s spot, either. Or mine or his or hers. It’s actually GoogleEarth’s spot, and pretty soon they’ll be live streaming every moment at every beach under the sun, and there won’t be anywhere left to hide on this little blue ball of ours.

Until then, have you ever considered channeling your inner Vasco da Gama? There’s, like, 70-something miles of surfable beach here, man. Can you honestly say you’ve explored it all? So maybe try that, and do it without the crass interference of social media or even cellphone discourse. Because the truth is, loose lips sink ships quicker than any webcam.

Also, I would argue that the cams can actually be used to one’s advantage these days, because all those lazy, unimaginative, soft-core types tend to congregate around them, leaving huge expanses of beachfront virtually empty. Part of the magic of the Outer Banks experience is the otherworldly freedom we have to choose our own adventure. If you do even the slightest bit of research — clock the sand, play the tide, take a chance on a decidedly unpopular sandbar — and go with your own God-given gut over digital herding, the more likely you are to conjure that magic. Then you’ll have a memory worth revisiting for the rest of your life: That one time…Spitting barrels…Absolutely perfect…No one around.

Keep on scratchin!

— Scabby

Got a question for Dear Scabby? Email editor@outerbanksmilepost.com.

WHADDYA RECKON?

getactive startingpoint roadmap

We got questions — you got answers.

Steve Whitney, 51 Ice Cold Cashier Manteo

“That’s easy: hit the gas station to grab some beer, head back to the house, and pack up anything loose on the porch, then crack a few while the storm passes.”

outthere gohunt gosurf

Erin Jackson, 47 Practiced Prepper

Kitty Hawk

“I take care of all the yard work and outdoor chores that can’t be done after everything is soaked from the storm.”

content

Juan Gomez, 39 Retail Realist

KDH

“I run away! [laughs] I don’t want to be around for that mess.”

Drew Hermeling, 25

Man of Experience

Colington

“I basically just make sure there’s beer and water at the house. I wish I did better prep, honestly, but I’m also from Florida, so I learned to just live on a hill and you’ll probably be fine.” [laughs]

How doYOU prep for a hurricane?

Wadian Brown, 23

International Expert Southern Shores

“Stock up on canned stuff, toiletries and drinking water; secure the windows; make sure you have lamp oil and candles, radios, and flashlights, then batteries to power it all. We go over this every year in school back in Jamaica.” [laughs]

Ali Shield,

52 Serious Stockpiler Grandy

“First stop is the ABC store before the state closes it down. Then to the grocery store for beer, chips and extra batteries.”

Jeff

Samet,

62

Chow Hound KDH

“Normally, I’m running around taking care of all our rentals first. But I always try to make sure I have food for my dog, some for me, and enough gas to cook with in case power goes out.”

Luke Edmonds, 22 Essential Worker KDH

“F#%k it, man, I don’t really care. I’m probably gonna have to be at work anyway.” [laughs]

Interviews and images by Tony Leone

Fuzzy, wuzzy, was a...?

Photo: Tim Percher

ThriveOBX™ is a cultural movement designed to inspire well-being by offering trusted guidance, practical tools and engaging programs rooted in the Thrive 5©.

At the heart of T�riveOBX is the T�rive5, five pillars of well-being:

Stay connected & learn more

thriveobx_ Thriveobx

Nourish: Be mindful—what you put in your body matters.

Move: Stay active throughout the day.

Engage: Create meaningful connections with others.

Purpose: Find what fufills you.

Balance: Restore with relaxation and sleep

graphiccontent

BACK IN BLUE

A revitalized Outer Banks Surfrider is gearing up for a fresh range of salty issues.

Cleaner beaches. Political victories. Coastal camaraderie. The Outer Banks chapter of the Surfrider Foundation’s done a lot for our community since first forming in 1993. So, when a collection of locals banded together this spring to seat a new board after a brief lapse in leadership, the world’s original ocean-loving non-profit was more than just “stoked.”

“It’s limiting the use of plastics and then providing alternatives, but not forcing the alternatives on anybody,” Ray says. “You’re being asked to maybe provide paper instead of Styrofoam.”

They also hope to start a Blue Water Task Force, where volunteers conduct water quality testing for local swimming areas that are prone to high bacteria levels, “to help find the cause of…non-point source pollution,” Ray explains.

And, by the time you read this, they’ll already have a calendar of regular community-wide beach cleanup days so both sides of our sandbar keep looking sharp.

Then there’s the scariest, most persistent threat of all: offshore drilling.

In April, the Trump administration announced plans to open all areas of the US Outer Continental Shelf to oil and gas lease sales in coming years and completed the first round of public comment on June 16.

outthere gohunt rearview gosurf

an attendance record and signaling a shift in attitude among Republican- and Democratic-led states alike. One that eventually would, at least temporarily, kill petroleum exploration off the East Coast to protect a collective billions of dollars in tourism and fishing revenue.

“The Outer Banks chapter made huge strides for over 30 years,” says Surfrider’s Southeast Regional Manager Kayla Huff. “We’re really excited that this chapter is building back up and that we have folks in the community that are taking the lead.”

The Surfrider Foundation first started in California in 1984, when a band of waveriders began fighting for more beach access and less runoff. Today, over 200 chapters worldwide also work toward everything from reducing plastics pollution to combating climate change.

photofinish

On the Outer Banks, Surfrider is a respected fixture for everything from their volunteer-driven “Adopt-A-Beach” programs — where individuals and businesses clean local accesses from Kitty Hawk to Nags Head at least six times a year, then log the results to a national database — to a family-friendly, one-mile paddle race that ran for more than a quarter-century. (And raised scholarship funds for local college-bound seniors.)

But it was their relentless efforts to stop offshore drilling a decade ago that most locals remember. For years, the chapter rallied residents and lobbied decisionmakers, from town boards to state reps to DC decisionmakers, helping build a statewide movement screaming, “Don’t Drill NC!”

On March 19, 2015, all the hard work culminated into 670 people showing up at a Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) meeting in Kill Devil Hills, smashing

“I think a lot of the success in that was that we reached across the aisle,” says Ivy Ingram, former chapter chair and current KDH mayor pro-tem. “[We] focused on the environment, but also on the economics of it.”

When that threat officially faded in 2020, the board changed hands — just as COVID took hold — shifting focus to more grassroots outdoor events like beach cleanups. But as of March, a fully seated board of fresh faces is more amped than ever to strengthen existing programs and prepare for future threats.

““OFFSHORE DRILLING IS NOT SOMETHING THAT ANYONE WANTS.”

“We’ve got a great executive committee that is weirdly motivated,” laughs current chair Jeff Ray, fresh off June’s International Surfing Day, where Surfrider signed up 20 new members. “The response has been unbelievable in terms of the excitement for community members who want to work with us [and] to partner with us.”

Already, Vice Chair Taylor McConnell is working to fill gaps in the Adopt-A-Beach program, and to make it easier to log data. Meanwhile, Willy Holmes is jumpstarting the Ocean Friendly Restaurants initiative, which encourages eateries and others to stop using straws and other single-use to-go products to keep them from becoming future beach litter.

Huff says that when BOEM releases its proposed leasing areas — most likely in the fall — Surfrider will be ready to tap into its 80 volunteer-run chapters and 160 student clubs across the nation to push back.

“Offshore oil drilling, even when there’s no accidents, can seriously pollute the water and the food supply,” Huff says. “That’s really what Surfrider does best — amplifying the voices on the ground to speak with their federal representatives that offshore drilling is not something that anyone wants off of any coast in the United States.”

That includes the Outer Banks, where the economic risks have never been greater. After all, 10 years ago, “Don’t Drill NC” warned that offshore drilling risked $2.75 billion in tourism revenues for the state’s 20 coastal counties. In 2023, Dare County’s visitor spending alone generated $2.15 billion.

“We’re just as concerned as everybody else,” Ray says. “Not just [for] clean beaches and clean water, but the fact that a whole bunch of people…would go out of business if we had a bunch of oil rigs offshore and one giant hurricane came in and swatted them all down.”

It all adds up to a busy time for protectors of the coast. Which is why Huff encourages anyone interested to get involved: “Come surf with us; come clean the beach with us.” — Corinne Saunders

For the latest on meetings and events, follow @surfrider_obx on Instagram, or Surfrider Foundation, Outer Banks Chapter on Facebook. To become an Outer Banks Surfrider Foundation member or volunteer, visit outerbanks.surfrider.org.

In 2010, hundreds of Outer Bankers rallied to draw a line in the sand against offshore drilling.

Photo: Julie Dreelin

DAILY LUNCH SPECIALS!

Perfectly composed, beautifully framed.

Photo: Ed Tupper

My story’s not that complicated. I grew up in Maryland, but I didn’t really like the DC area. So, I went to college in Greensboro for a few semesters. In 1981, I came to the Outer Banks for the summer, and I fell in love with the ocean. So I stayed. And I’ve been living here making art and working in restaurants ever since. That’s about it.

I always did artsy stuff as a kid. Painting. Drawing. Pastels. And I’ve always loved impressionists. My favorite is Vincent Van Gogh. His paintings pulsate off the walls with energy. And growing up, the National Gallery of Art was one of my favorite places. One of my sisters was a curator there forever. She traveled all over the world collecting paintings. She’s like a rock star.

When I first moved here, there weren’t many galleries. But I knew lots of restaurant people. So when John Kirchmier opened Goombay’s, he asked me to do a mural. Then I did a bunch of paintings for Quagmires. After that, Will Thorp commissioned pieces for Tortuga’s Lie and Rundown Cafe. Then came Food Dudes...and Blue Moon...and Greentail’s. So, I’ve always had luck selling stuff out of restaurants. But it wasn’t anything deliberate on my part. Basically, I just float through my life and occasionally I land on something that works. [laughs]

“IT’S MADDENING TO PAINT INSIDE WHEN IT’S BEAUTIFUL OUTSIDE.

Batik was my main medium before I switched to oils. I also did watercolors and printmaking. But batik became cumbersome — melting wax, wearing respirators, plotting out your steps. And watercolors and printmaking are also tricky, because you have to block out your whites, your lights, and plan your color scheme. Oils are probably the most freeing medium. Because with oils you can always paint over something. And the colors are so beautiful and easy to blend. So, now it’s a permanent love affair.

Living here, the ocean, the sky and the weather is what gets me going. But I also like to do people and flowers and cottages and whatnot, so I don’t like to describe my work in any particular way. Basically, I just want to keep getting better, so I keep painting. In fact, if somebody were to commission a bunch of kitchens for me to paint tomorrow, I would happily do it. Because I know so many of them — and they’re so fun. [laughs]

So, I’m not a plein air zealot. I don’t do competitions. I don’t even have the right easel. I just love painting outdoors. It’s such a challenge. The light changes really fast, so you have to be on your game and paint quickly. And the weather is always really tricky. You’ve got to put weights on your easel or it’s going to blow away and — bam! — paint’s everywhere. And sometimes it’s really hot...and the wind’s still…and the flies are biting. But then there’s days when you’re standing outside and the sun’s shining, the breeze is cool, and the birds are just going off. It’s maddening to paint inside when it’s beautiful outside. Truly maddening.

It is getting harder to find a place on the side of the road to paint. There’s so much traffic and so many people here now. So, sometimes, I have to trespass. [laughs] I left a few notes on people’s houses: “I painted your cottage...Thank you!” But if there’s somebody around, I always ask permission. And I’ve never gotten chased off. At least not yet.

I guess I’m never going to grow up. [laughs] There were points when I tried. I mean, I definitely grew up a ton when I had kids. And when I was 26, I went back to school at UNCWilmington and got my art degree. But then I just came back to the Outer Banks and kept doing what I was doing before. [laughs] So, I’ll always have to work; I’ll never be able to retire, you know? But that’s all good. I count my freaking blessings. I’ve got love and friends; I’ve got nature and health. I’ve got kids and grandkids. The way I look at it, I’m already rich. Because what else could you ask for?

Wanna see other artists depict their favorite outdoor muses? Check out Dare Arts’ Fresh from the Outer Banks plein air event from September 3-5, 2025.

Elisa McVearry’s 2023 fiber art installation is the very picture of “stronger together.”

Photo: Out on the OBX

pride, prejudice & perseverance

Words by Maggie Miles

“Love is not a crime.” “We deserve safety.” “There is no gay agenda.”

In June 2023, Elisa McVearry was perched atop a ladder in Downtown Manteo, hanging huge, knitted slogans to help mark Pride Month. At the time, it seemed like a high point for Outer Banks inclusiveness, so much that even the kids who biked by yelling slurs couldn’t dampen her mood. But when she received a call the next morning that her art installation had been ripped down by vandals, her attitude soured.

But not for long.

“My initial reaction when I got the phone call was a deep sadness, thinking of all the months of work I put into making the piece and all the hours it took my friends and I to install it,” recalls the fiber artist today. “But when I saw that it could be salvaged with some stitching, I was fiercely inspired to get it back up and have the show go on as if nothing happened, to show those hateful people that the piece and the meaning behind it is that love is stronger than hate.”

You might say it became an even stronger metaphor for the gay community’s relationship with local life. After all, queer people have long been an integral — if not always highly visible — part of our tightknit

community. It’s a place where openly gay residents have helped shape daily life as business leaders, elected officials and cultural pioneers, and where gay visitors have always been welcome guests — at least since the late 1930s. That’s when a new symphonic drama began to lure vacationers for a nightly show, and ended up introducing locals to a large number of seasonal workers who happened to follow a different lifestyle.

“When The Lost Colony began, the Manteo community took the cast and crew into their homes because there was no housing,” says David Miller, former cast member and founder of OBX Pride. “Many of them happened to be gay, too. So, The Lost Colony started it all.”

With each summer, the drama grew more popular, pumping muchappreciated tourist dollars into the town. And with each season, residents grew more comfortable with their new neighbors.

“That’s why Manteo in general has not had a problem with LGBTQ+ people over the years,” says Miller, who estimates roughly 40 percent of today’s cast and crew are part of the queer community. “The town’s had 88 years to get used to us.” [laughs]

As a dancer in The Lost Colony, Edward Greene helped make the Outer Banks a better place to visit; as a cultural visionary, he made it

a better place to live.

Photo: Aycock Brown Papers/ Outer Banks History Center

You might say we fell in love with them. And how could you not? Among the famous alumni were dancers like Edward Greene, who came here in the summer of 1953 and became so smitten he was determined to make the move from Manhattan to Manteo.

“I was only here for two seasons,” he told Milepost in 2013. “But I knew there was no other place that I wanted to be.”

In 1967, Greene came back and founded the world-famous Christmas Shop, ultimately becoming not just a business icon but a community fixture, helping change the very face of the Outer Banks — even the state. As the founder of the Weeping Radish, he gave North Carolina its first microbrewery. As a town commissioner, he helped with the remodeling of Downtown Manteo in the 1980s. At the same time, he worked to preserve natural assets like Jockey’s Ridge.

A

“typical Sunday” at Coquina would include anything from fishing contests to tanning competitions.

Still, even in the 80s, being openly gay meant being somewhat discreet. When Miller first arrived in 1987, The Lost Colony cast and crew would meet at Coquina Beach every Sunday for an informal gathering on their one day off. By the 90s, gay Outer Banks locals would also show up — with up to 150 people at the height of summer.

Eric Hause moved to the Outer Banks in 1993 to be the production’s Director of Marketing and PR. He remembers a “typical Sunday” at Coquina would include anything from fishing contests to tanning competitions.

“We would fly a rainbow flag from the top of the dunes so people would know where to find us,” Hause recalls. “And slowly but surely, in the summers, those Sunday afternoon outings became quite a big deal. We actually started calling it ‘Coqueena Beach.’” [laughs]

In 1995, Hause and some friends even began hosting social events at various gay-owned restaurants. But, outside the play, many Outer Bankers weren’t as comfortable being so open with their sexuality.

“In those days, the rest of the Outer Banks was pretty much closeted,” he says. “I had a ton of local friends who were old timers and were concerned about the ramifications [of being outed]. They just didn’t want to go into a public place where the rest of the community could possibly come in.”

Perhaps his greatest legacy was as one of the founders of the Outer Banks Community Foundation, which since 1982 has distributed more than $14 million in grants and scholarships, supporting everything from hurricane relief to houses of worship.

“Think how brave it was for a gay man from the northeast to come to the south and just turn into such a trailblazer?” muses OBCF Director Chris Sawin, who moved to Manteo when he was 10. “But it’s not just Edward Greene. George Crocker was also one of our four founders. He was this incredible businessman and cultural leader — who also happened to be gay. And everybody loved them both. But my experience is the Outer Banks has been incredibly welcoming for people from all kinds of backgrounds.”

In the process, they helped make the Outer Banks a better place for all. Crocker’s Restaurant By George introduced cutting-edge culinary ideas, while his Galleon Esplanade brought in the latest fashions.

The organizers went so far as to create a secret knock for events. At the same time, Hause says he felt like they needed to “do better.” So, several in the group started a newsletter as a way to connect people and give the queer community a unified voice.

“I wrote the newsletter on PageMaker 1, on the PC in The Lost Colony office, and ran it off the copy machine,” Hause recalls.

They called it the OBXGLC — Outer Banks Gay and Lesbian Community — and built up a mailing list that included not only Outer Bankers, but many people they had met vacationing here over the years, from places like Northern Virginia, Hampton Roads, and Washington D.C.

“And so that whole circle opened up,” says Hause, who now runs an LGBTQ+ magazine in Hampton Roads called Out Life 757. “It became kind of a reason for queer people to come to the Outer Banks. And I was very proud of that.”

It was truly a grassroots movement, and over time straight allies began signing up and joining for the events.

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“And then of course as time went by, people got a little less uptight about queer people, and those who were in the closet got a little less uptight about being in the closet,” he says.

Flash forward to 2009. Miller created a website called TheGayOBX.com, which brought queer entertainment to the Outer Banks during summertime. That set the stage for the first Outer Banks Pride event in June 2011 at The Lost Colony Inn, which drew nearly 1500 attendees.

“A lot of things were going on that weekend,” Miller recalls. “We had dance parties and sunset cruises and drag brunches — but the main festival is basically the same thing that we’re doing now: an afternoon of drag performances and live bands.”

In 2013, they moved the event to September to take advantage of the shoulder season’s reduced rates for visitors — and slower time for locals. They also changed the location to Downtown Manteo. And while the numbers ebbed and flowed over the years, they never felt any animosity from the straight community. Just maybe some misunderstanding.

“I think there’s this terrible misconception of what a pride festival is,” Miller continues. “Because the media and TV show all this outrageous behavior. Our festival is very familyfriendly — it has face painting and a kids’ zone — but folks who never come just don’t realize that it’s such a nice atmosphere.”

The first Outer Banks Pride event in 2011 drew nearly 1500 attendees.

Now, this year, for the first time ever, multiple corporate sponsors have pulled out — leaving a $12,000 gap in funding. Miller says companies have become gun-shy about supporting gay rights in an era of increased animosity toward the LGBTQ+ community particularly when it comes to transgender rights.

“Drag queens and the trans community have become scapegoats nationwide,”

Miller says. “And the same thing is happening here.”

But does that national backlash really reflect the Outer Banks values? After all, this is a place where gay people share surf zones, fishing slips — even church pews. Where gay educators can be Teacher of the Year. Where gay elected officials help set state policy and where towns from Duck to Ocracoke fought 2016’s infamous bathroom bill?

Sadly, some younger members of the LGBTQ+ community are starting to ask if things have changed. People like lifelong local Evan Tillett, who grew up feeling nothing but acceptance — but now senses a shift in temperature.

OBX Pride founder David Miller reflects during a Milepost portrait shoot in 2014.

Photo: Chris Bickford

Facepaint: Fay Davis Edwards

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Covered Shopping For All Weather Conditions!

“I think the backlash is less than probably everywhere else,” says the 29-year-old president of Theatre of Dare. “But it has reached us. People are less accepting. Just like at bars, going out, there is a different feel. I can’t really describe it.”

Still, while he admits there’s a shift in mood, he feels it’s not as much of a specific friction over gender and sexuality, but part of the broader, national culture wars that impact a range of issues. And that might trouble him even more.

“I feel like the Outer Banks community used to be so together,” Tillett says. “We were all just like, ‘Even if we disagree politically, it doesn’t matter, we still love each other.’ And now that political divide just feels too deep.”

But even if the big corpo suits and marketers are feeling sheepish, members of the local community aren’t about to back down.

“I’ve never lived anywhere where I felt more accepted.”

Meanwhile, long-time institutions keep promoting inclusiveness and awareness. Since 2023, the Dare Arts’ Pride Project has filled their gallery and backyard with music, art and performances by gay artists each June, as well as hosted an LGBTQ+ open mic night at Hi-Vibe Holistics. This past year, they even teamed up with Theatre of Dare to present a reading of The Laramie Project, which revisits a tragic hate crime from the late 90s.

“I feel like our role as arts leaders is to create a space for all perspectives and all stories, and encourage connection through art,” says Tiffany Lindsay, Exhibition Director and Gallery Manager at Dare Arts. “And the Pride Project is a wonderful addition to this.”

Miller says they plan to bolster those efforts — and maybe boost numbers — by moving 2026’s OBX Pride Week to the last week in May to help kick off the Pride Month celebrations. Until then, this September’s 14th Annual OBX Pridefest will work to beef up attendance by mixing a lineup of world-famous drag performers like Kasha Davis, with sizzling local bands like Hot Sauce, Soul One, and Raygun Ruby.

“Traditionally, we try to get LGBTQ+ performers from out of town,” Miller says. “But we’re trying to get Outer Bankers, straight and gay, to come out.”

After her artwork was vandalized, Elisa McVearry started a group called QueerOBX for queer locals and visitors, where they can find access to LGBTQ+ resources and community, with a focus on youth outreach. Currently, they meet once a month and connect online through a Discord group. She also just raised $5000 to rent a billboard along Caratoke Highway featuring art from trans artist Rae Senarighi with a message of inclusivity to the LGBTQ+ community traveling towards The Outer Banks.

“I think visibility is key right now,” McVearry says.

So is camaraderie. That’s why Manteo resident David Maki created OBX Gay Daze. Inspired by the original Coquina Beach gatherings, Maki hosts LGBTQ+ meet-ups at various beaches, along with brunch and happy hour gatherings at restaurants and bars across the Outer Banks, and pool parties — events that he says have formed many friendships within the community.

“The Outer Banks is very open,” he says. “And that’s one of the reasons that I moved here 15 years ago. I’ve never lived anywhere where I felt more accepted.”

Not just come out — but come together. What other choice do we have? After all, this is their home, too. In fact, some of our greatest cultural pride points were at least partially inspired or perpetuated by members of the gay community, from the Manteo waterfront to the Currituck Lighthouse to Theatre of Dare — whether or not the public is aware.

“When you look back on these pioneers, they weren’t people who just came here and bought a house,” says Sawin. “These are people who dug into the community and pulled it up every chance they had.”

One could even argue that, over the past 50 years, it’s the Outer Banks’ queer community who have opened their houses, businesses — their very lives — to a whole bunch of straight newcomers. Not the other way around. And nobody’s going to make them disappear now.

“We’re not going anywhere,” says Tillett. “We’re going to keep doing the things that we do. Because we love this community. And because, at the end of the day, I think we have each other’s best interests at heart.”

Dare Arts’ Pride Project continues to promote diversity — and community — through artists like Summer Alker.

Photo: Casey Robertson

GEARED UP! TO GET DOWN

Photo: Daniel Pullen

OUTER BANKERS

But that don’t mean we can’t turn heads — especially when it comes to gearing up for our favorite outdoor pursuits. We asked five expert athletes to show off the attire and essentials they’ll be sporting this autumn — from the warmest outerwear to the gnarliest hard goods to the techiest fabrics — creating a cutting-edge fall collection that’s part fashion, all passion.

TERRE PLANING HOODY?

Soooo goody.

MID-LENGTH FOILBOARD

Ride the wind.

Shred the waves.

FULLYCOVERED

Jessie Kilgour knows what shreds, what soars — and what’s safe — no matter the watersport.

HIGH-ASPECT FOIL

More maneuverability. (But less stability.)

ARMSTRONG MK II

Gives you wiiiings! (And then some.)

RE AIR BOX

This thing will pump you up — literally.

HELMET & VEST

There’s no shame in extra safety.

LONG-SLEEVE SPRING SUIT

Stops the wind. Beats the chill.

Photo: Cody Hammer

As a volunteer Tavarua boatman, Jessie Kilgour keeps traveling surfers safe in Fiji’s gnarliest waves. As Real Watersports’ Lesson Center Manager, she helps rookies and rippers ride the wind. Put it all together, you get a skill set that knows exactly what gear works in every situation. “The hard goods side — like the boards, kites and wings — is obviously pretty sport-specific,” says the trained EMT and Big Wave Risk Assessment Group instructor. “But the wetsuits, swimsuits, and stuff are pretty translatable across sports. And I get to see what really excels between different conditions and abilities, so that definitely influences what gear I choose.” It also helps Kilgour dial in any would-be enthusiast, whether it’s some thrill-seeking hodad who’s never stood up — or a salty vet looking to master the latest craze: wing foiling.

Safety is my number one criterion for picking gear. Then performance. Then style. So, the last thing I want to wear is some super cute bikini that won’t stay on — especially if the waves are serious. My Patagonia Swell Seeker One-Piece swimsuit looks almost like a gymnastics singlet. It zips up the back to hold everything in place when I’m getting pummeled, and it protects my whole back and arms from the sun so I can stay out longer — even in the tropics.

Some surfing wetsuits are super stretchy, but the wind rips right through them. This Patagonia Yulex Long-Sleeve Regulator Lite is on par with your average surf suit in terms of flexibility, but it’s more wind-resistant, more eco-friendly, and has way more longevity.

I wouldn’t say wing foiling is easy — at all — but it’s the wind sport surfers find most approachable, because it has less gear than kiteboarding. Still, you’re gonna need a board, a foil and a wing. Luckily, Armstrong is a premium-level brand that makes the highest-tech gear but they don’t do it unnecessarily. If something’s working, they’re going to stick to what they’ve got. Which is nice, because all foil gear is pretty expensive.

They just came out with this new A-Wing XPS MK II parawing. It’s got a bunch of techie stuff I’m not qualified to explain [laughs], but the canopy helps you use it in a wider range of wind speeds. Even so, you’d need probably three different size wings to cover every condition — assuming you got serious.

For me, the Armstrong FG foil board is a great all-around design that I can use on the sound or the ocean in most conditions. But the Armstrong Mid-Length pictured here is probably more versatile; not only does it have more float for learning to wing foil, but you can also use it to prone-foil waves with or without a parawing — even when it’s super small.

Then, you have to pick a foil, which is like an oversized fin that creates lift as water moves over it — like an airplane wing. And just like a wing, they come in different aspects. My go-to is the Armstrong HA — which stands for “high aspect” and is longer and skinnier and more maneuverable. But the Armstrong S1 low aspect foil is shorter, fatter and more stable. It’s not going to be as maneuverable or pump as easily, but it’s definitely the most user-friendly for getting started.

If you see someone on the beach holding a big piece of plastic and doing squats, they’re probably inflating their wing using a hand pump — which is kind of a pain in the ass. So, sometimes, I’ll steal this Ride Engine Air Box, which is an electric pump. You just set the PSI and press the button and it does the work. It’s kind of bougie, but it’s nice to have on a hot, sweaty day. [laughs]

Helmets are becoming way more popular as we understand the consequences of head injuries. This Oakley WTR Icon is lighter and more hydrodynamic than the old hard-shell wakeboard and kite helmets, which takes the sting out of your head smacking the water — with flaps that come down on each side so you won’t blow out your ear drums. And it fits tight and lets water move through, so it’s less cumbersome duck-diving, even in bigger surf.

Even with a helmet, you can still get hurt. This Star Impact Vest doesn’t provide Coast Guard regulation flotation, but it’s more comfortable to wing in, and it’s buoyant enough to get you to the surface so a friend could find you and rescue you if you’ve knocked yourself out. Or, if you had to ditch your gear and swim in for some reason, it would definitely make that less painful, too.

Knowing the water depth is crucial, whether you’re wondering if it’s safe enough to put the foil down, or you’re working on kite tricks and don’t want to break your collarbone. And working on Tavarua, a change in tide won’t just turn a reefbreak from great to terrible, it creates a hazardous current. That’s why I always wear my Rip Curl Rifles Tide Watch. Plus, I just like knowing what time it is, so I know how long I’ve been blasting myself in the sun. [laughs]

But my number one go-to item of all is my Patagonia Terre Planing Sun Hoodie. It’s designed to wear in the water — perfect for when you don’t quite need a wetsuit but want something to cut the wind. It also has pockets so you can stash a granola bar or sunscreen. But I wear it even more on land, because it’s the best sunshade ever — even when it’s 100 degrees, it works like a mini-climate control. And if I’m out on the equator, I’ll also wear my Carve Designs Saluda leggings — which are these SPF-rated tights that keep my legs from getting lit up. People do look at you funny — like “aren’t you boiling?!”— but I’d rather be sun-protected and chafe-free than look cool, because that’s what’s going to keep me in the water doing what I love.

SHARPSHOOTER

For duck guide Chris McDonald, “killer looks” aren’t meant to be seen.

CAMOUFLAGE

Covers everything from arms to firearms.

SITKA SHELL

Not just waterproof. Weatherproof.

DECOYS

“You gotta keep ’em separated.”

HEATED VEST

This thing is fire.

PENTAX BINOCULARS Kill time between shots.

TRUCKER HAT

Brims beat beanies.

Photo: Chris Bickford

As a beach kid, Chris McDonald grew up hunting waves, not waterfowl. Then one blustery morning at about age 18, he posted up with pals in the marsh behind Kitty Hawk Bay — and came back totally blown away. “It’s such a thrilling experience,” says McDonald, who now works for Victor Berg’s legendary Outer Banks Waterfowl Guide Service. “The best moments are when you’re surrounded by nature and just being present. But you have to love it. Because it’s a lot of work in pretty rough weather. And shooting ducks is like 5 percent of it.” The other 95 percent is a mix of making calls, keeping hidden and staying warm — without scaring off potential targets. Here’s how Chris arms himself for the coming season.

Duck hunting season begins in late fall. You might start out in a T-shirt and waders; three days later you’re all bundled up. So, layers are the key. This Club Room Cashmere Sweater is definitely too nice to wear hunting, but it’s wool, which is super important, because even if it gets a little bit wet, you’ll still be insulated.

From there I’ll add on my Sitka Hoodie, which is really expensive but super insulated and very flexible. That and my sweater can get me through a lot of cold days. But you’re still gonna get wet riding in the boat. And some mornings are so cold, you’ve got icicles hanging off you by the time you reach the blind. So, a waterproof shell is mandatory. My Sitka Delta Wading Jacket isn’t crazy thick, but it’s windproof — basically impenetrable — even after five years.

Hunting waders look a lot like fishing waders — except for the spots on the chest that hold shells. [laughs] They’re also super-insulated with much thicker boots. Still, they only seem to last a couple of years, because you’re wading through needlegrass, and they’re almost impossible to repair. So, I usually go with whatever’s on sale. When I saw these Final Approaches in my size for just a couple hundred bucks — instead of $700 — I pulled the trigger. No pun intended.

The worse the weather, the better the hunting. Because that’s when ducks fly. They don’t want to — they have to. They need to find food and burn calories to stay warm. So, if it rains, if it snows — whatever — you’re not leaving the blind. That’s when this Ororo Heated Vest becomes the best $100 I ever spent. If it’s just a little bit chilly, I can set it to low or medium and wear it under my hoodie. But when it’s freezing, just put it on high for 30 minutes and all your organs and insides come roaring back.

Deer hunting, you wear orange because you don’t want someone to accidentally shoot you from a mile away. Duck hunting, you wear camouflage — and stay perfectly still — because ducks have incredible vision. They don’t just see colors — they see ultraviolet light. They can even see human faces. That’s why I don’t wear sunglasses; I worry the sun might reflect on the lenses and give me away. It’s also why I wear a trucker hat instead of a beanie — I use the brim to hide my eyes. Then I pull this Patagonia Fleece Gaiter up over my nose to cover the rest of my face. Even better, it holds the heat in your jacket, which keeps you twice as warm.

Sitting in a marsh, bug repellant definitely comes into play — especially at the start of the season. Some clients bring what’s called a Thermocell You stick a square of material soaked in chemicals into a battery-powered machine to create this invisible perimeter. But I normally just grab whatever DEET spray’s handy. Actually, I normally forget to grab it and just suffer — which is why it’s not in this photo. [laughs]

These Pentax PCF binoculars are old, but crystal clear. They’re great for when you’ve got a duck shot down and you’re looking for it. And even better for just killing time. You might spot an otter chewing on an oyster, then pass the binos around to your clients. There’s always something to see.

You can get by layering up with cheaper stuff. But when it comes to guns and shells, you better have the right equipment. My Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 is made in Italy. Very nice. Super reliable. And they come in different camo patterns for depending on where you hunt. Mine’s marsh grass for ducks, but you can get them in a forest pattern, too. And sometime in the late 80s they outlawed lead BBs for hunting waterfowl, because they were worried about contamination. But steel BBs can bounce off if they hit wrong. That’s why I use Rio Royal BlueSteel shells —12 gauge; 3.5 inches. Each one holds a lot of powder and a lot of BBs. Because you might only get one opportunity to shoot all day. And you don’t want to blow it.

There’s a pile of good decoy brands – GHG, Higden, Tanglefree, Dakota And I might bring six-to-10 different species, but they don’t always mix together. So, my job as a guide is to set the decoys so each species of ducks believe that their decoys are real.

The other big part of my job is using a duck call. Most you hear are mallard calls. They can get really expensive — like $150 or more — but this green Haydell RL-99 was like $40, and I love its sound. But you really have to practice to make a good mallard call.

But you’re not just going “quack, quack.” You’re saying, “I’m a real-life duck, and the food’s good here.” My Buck Gardner 6-in-1 Whistle only costs six bucks and it allows you to do some cool peeps and tweets to add realism to your spread. So, when a flock flies by, it’s like a family from Pennsylvania driving past an all you can eat buffet. They go: “Hey, let’s pull in there!” And if you do everything right they’ll fly right to you without ever knowing you’re there. Until it’s too late.

LONG DRIVER

More shaft and less loft means extra distance.

MALBON OUTFIT

Feels cool. Looks cooler.

STYLE

MESSIAH

Jacob “Jesus of Golf” Golliday racks up new followers with every drive, putt, and post.

FUTURA DRIVER COVER

Try a collab for extra style points.

BLUETOOTH SPEAKER

“So what?! So let’s dance!”

For when storms pop up.

GRINDER & DUGOUT

Take hits between swings.

CLUBHOUSE TEES

Collect them all!

RAIN JACKET

Photo: Daniel Pullen

What makes Jacob Golliday “Jesus of Golf?” It’s not just the mighty beard and flowing locks. Or the ability to send a ball into the heavens. (A skill that makes him a top-ranked competitor on the World Long Drive tour.) It’s the way he brings joy to the game, with a style and charisma that makes him a social media powerhouse for any number of cutting-edge brands. “Around 2020, I got the attention of Malbon clothing and became the face of a few campaigns,” says the Colington native. “That just opened up all these doors to work with all these cool companies — and also play golf a little bit more competitively.” Not just a little bit. In July, he smoked a bunch of top players and celebs to win the creator and amateur divisions in July’s 2025 Mickelson National Invitational. Follow along as he shares some of the gear that keeps him smiling from fairways to photo shoots.

Golf is all personal preference. That’s what makes it so cool. Anything Malbon makes, I’m a fan of, from their Preserve Collection — which rocks a more vintage style — to the Performance Line, which is more contemporary and fashion forward but with a serious athletic focus. This Performance Blade Collar Polo has a minimalist collar that feels more like a t-shirt. And Malacchio Chino Shorts are super breathable and great for warm weather. It’s a combo that looks a little less stuffy, but you could still wear it to any course on or off the Outer Banks. Well, maybe the most prestigious places would ask you to put on a belt, but that’s about it. [laughs]

All the drivers I use have Accra Tour Z RPG shafts. I like the weight and feel when I release it through the hitting zone. Then, for regular play, I use a Cobra DS Adapt LS driver, which stands for “low spin.” It gives you more control. But coming from the World Long Drive tour, it’s always fun to have this Cobra DS Adapt LD long driver in the bag. Same shaft — just three inches longer. And the loft on the club is typically three degrees to four degrees —instead of 9 to 10 degrees for a regular driver. It’s all designed to make you hit the ball farther. It takes some getting used to — and you can’t use one in tournament play — but nothing says you can’t take one to the driving range and go nuts.

In golf, grips range from small to super large, soft to firm, and everything in-between. I like a firm grip with kind of a rough texture, so I go with a Lamkin UTX Cord Grip, which gives the rubber a bumpy weave. It works perfect with Cobra’s PUR Tour Golf Glove, which is all high-grade leather and super form-fitted.

Malbon’s big on collaborating with cool brands and creative people. They designed this tie-dyed driver cover with legendary graffiti artist, Futura, for the 2025 Masters. And I do a lot of playing in areas that have pop-up storms — Outer Banks included — so I always have my Malbon X Footjoy Hydrotour Rain Jacket to throw on so I don’t get soaked. But these Malbon XtraTufs are my new favorite. I actually spent a few days in a Seattle fish market this summer doing a photo shoot for the launch and took this pair with me. [laughs] I’m not sure you’d ever wear them on the course, but they’re 100 percent Outer Banksy so, for me, it’s a collab that really hit home — especially as a Colington kid.

Caddy towels are designed to be longer and narrower than a standard hand towel, so you can keep one side dry, one side wet. For this photo, I grabbed a Carolina Golf Association Caddy Towel because I like to support the various organizations that support the sport. And I love wood tees more than plastic, so I always grab a few from every golf course I play. Because each club will have their own color scheme and logo design, and whenever I grab one it reminds me of all the places I’ve been fortunate enough to play.

Cobalt Rangefinders make the best golf rangefinder. Period. The lens is insanely clear; the laser shoots 2000 yards. And it always hits the flag stick instead of background noise. The New Q-6SM even comes with a magnet that attaches to your cart.

Golf and hot dogs go together, like... I dunno, peanut butter and jelly? [laughs] So, I was stoked to join the board of designers for Gleezy Dog They’re a new “by golfers/for golfers” company that makes an amazing double-smoked, all-beef brisket hot dog. They were just the official dog of the PGA Championship, so they’re already taking over. And they make a pretty sick golf bag, too.

If the putting green is busy, or you’re in an area that doesn’t have any holes, just throw down this Malbon Putting Disc. It’s like a skinny little hockey puck with a recessed circle and a little opening in front, so you can practice your short game anywhere. And I’ve always been a fan of Titleist Pro V.1 golf balls since I began playing competitively. I’m actually still playing the 2023 model — even though the ’25s have come out. Golf’s got a little superstition to it, and I’ve been playing well so I’m scared to change. [laughs]

I always like to play music when I’m golfing, so this Malbon X JBL Clip is another great collab. You just need to be sure the course allows it, and then you’ll want to ask the group you play with. But in the rules of “New Age Golf,” you’ll get more “yesses” then “nos.”

Same with cannabis. It’s more popular on the golf course than Bud Light these days — legal states, of course. [chuckles] My MJ Arsenal Capsule Grinder & Dugout is an all-in-one smoking apparatus that lets you be super discreet. But you still want to make sure you respect the course and the people around you. Because that’s the best way to do everything, right?

SALSA FARGO

This bike handles terrain from mild to spicy.

CAPILENE HOODY

Quick-drying sun cover.

FAST

FASHION

For bikepacker Stephanie Hall, traveling light is the only way to fly.

ZPACKS TENT

Light, durable room for two.

FLAT PEDALS No cleats necessary!

ULTRALIGHT COOKSET

“Mmmm...coffee...”

FUN & GAMES

Play chess with friends or paint something cool.

Photo: Ed Tupper

When cycling and camping from the Canadian border to the edge of Mexico, every ounce counts. In some cases, more than once. “Being ultralight is about being resourceful,” says KDH’s Stephanie Hall, who once pedaled 2400 miles of the Great Divide mountain bike route in just 21 days. “Super glue can fix a tire — or a finger cut. Or I can use a bandana to wipe my face mid-ride, or to dip in the creek and put on my neck when it’s hot. I can even use it when I run out of toilet paper.” Luckily, the same picks that helped Steph push personal limits can also help any Outer Banker on a fall cycling adventure, whether it’s a sunset “gravel grind” through Alligator River Wildlife Refuge, pedaling down to Oregon Inlet for a weekend campout — or an all-day cruise from pier to pier.

You want layers. Things that you can pull out and pack away easily as the temperature changes. My Patagonia Capeline hoodie is great for sun protection mid-day. And a Senchi Hoodie is super warm and breathable for cooler mornings and evenings. And for long distances, I’ll bring my Outdoor Research Helium II rain jacket. But if I’m just doing a casual ride at the beach, I have my REI Swiftland Running Jacket to block the wind chill. And I always start with a merino base shirt or sports bra, because it wicks water, dries quick and is super odor resistant.

“Bibs, “bike shorts,” “chamois” — whatever you call them — butt pads are absolutely necessary for rides over 20 miles. Bibs have suspenders to keep from slipping, but these Pearl iZumi bike shorts have better real-world applications, since you’re gonna have to use the bathroom. (PS: lose the underwear, because less underwear means less chafing.)

My Salsa Fargo Apex 1 is one of the most popular bikes on the Great Divide. It’s a gravel bike that goes offroad, but it’s light enough for pavement. Mine’s also set up for single track. So, it’s great for riding all over the Outer Banks, where we have woods, highways and multi-use paths and lots of sandy spots, too.

I bring front and back lights for safety, regardless. But this Nitecore Ultralight headlamp is nice for riding through sunset. Then you can set up camp after dark or find the bathroom in the middle of the night. At home, it works great for digging through my attic or changing the oil on my car.

You can’t see my helmet because I’m sitting on it [laughs]. But it’s a Giro Fixture. It’s superlight and streamlined — they all are now, really — so there’s no reason not to wear one. Especially with all the e-bikes going crazy speeds.

I only buy cheap sunglasses because I lose them or break them. But you should probably get UVprotective lenses because they’re better for your eyes. Goodr sells them for around $30.

I’ve got a few AFO Janji Ultra Light hats. They’re quick-dry, breathable and made to stuff into a pocket. The cinch in the back keeps it from slipping under my helmet, and the brim flips up and down super easy. I even wear mine when running. I wouldn’t say they’re all that flattering, but they block the sun and stay on my head even when the wind’s blowing 30mph.

Some people like bike pedals that clip in. But they require special shoes with cleats that aren’t fun to walk in. My pedals have metal pins. So, I wear Adidas 510s. They’re super grippy, but flat, so I can pop in the grocery store or coffee shop without taking my shoes off.

For tough rides you need a mental edge. My trail name was “Puffin” when I hiked the Appalachian Trail. This little Puffin Key Chain goes with me on all my adventures as a reminder to just keep going when things get hard.

Zpacks makes very expensive, ultralight tents. I got this Duplex Classic in the “bargain bin” with just a couple blemishes; then I ordered special carbon fiber poles to cut weight even more. It’s easy enough to set up once you learn how, and it sleeps two. Or at least it sleeps me and my dog. Getting sleep is super important on long rides. My Therm-a-Rest Z-Lite inflatable camping pad is light, foldable and surprisingly comfortable. So is my Big Sky Dream Sleeper inflatable pillow. And instead of a sleeping bag, I bought a Zpacks 20F Solo Quilt, which is like a blanket that’s enclosed from roughly the knees down, so it saves on weight but keeps your feet super warm. I also use Mack’s SlimFit Soft Foam ear plugs — because people party at campgrounds. [laughs]

I’ve done my research on power banks. This Anker PowerCore Slim takes four hours for it to go from zero to full, and it will charge my iPhone, my air pods, my headlamp, my emergency SOS device. If you have a bike computer for navigating, it’ll charge that, too.

Everything I bring to eat and drink doesn’t need cooking or refrigeration. Things like wraps, dried meats and string cheese; maybe some Lara Bars. I also bring LMNT electrolyte powders. But if it’s a fun overnight trip, I’m gonna take my MSR Pocket Rocket. It’s a collapsible burner setup, which attaches to a small can of gas and holds a tiny TOAKS Light Titanium cook pot that doubles as a cup. That way I can boil water for coffee in the morning.

It’s not all cycling all the time. So, I’ll bring a portable backgammon game or magnetic chess set to play at the campsite. Or, if I’m solo, I’ll bring my Strathmore Visual Journal and Mijango Watercolor kit to paint between rides. Even putting little string lights in your tent creates a whole different atmosphere. Because it’s important to add a layer of fun, too.

SUPER SCOOPER

Telescopic nets bring the fish to you.

TROLLING MOTOR

Less time pedaling means more time fishing.

TRENDSETTER

Kayak angler Ryan Rhodes only snags the sharpest fishing gear.

FAST ACTION ROD

Always sensitive. Never floppy.

EGO RETRACTABLE LANYARD

No more dropped calls.

GOPRO BOOM Clips or it didn’t happen.

SMOOTH RIDE

This Hobie Pro Angler is the Cadillac of kayaks.

YACHT ROCKER

Big lithium battery. “It keeps you running.”

Photo: Daniel Pullen

When Ryan Rhodes first started kayak angling, he built storage boxes out of sawed-up milkcrates. Next, he converted car charger cords into rod tethers. But his single greatest idea was cutting up a broom stick to make a GoPro mount. “When I started sharing videos of me fighting fish, people lost their damn minds,” recalls the KDH local and captain of Kingfisher Charters. “Eventually, Hobie called and asked me to become a local ambassador.” Fourteen years and countless clips later, Rhodes’ boat is stickered with logos, from high-tech lures to hardcore apparel. The difference? He called them, specifically seeking products he knew worked best. Here’s just some of the stuff he keeps handy each time he heads out.

It never fails: your phone starts ringing when you got a fish on. This EGO Retractable Lanyard is like a janitor’s keyring. It’s supposed to hook onto your tools, but after almost losing my phone twice on a fishing trip, I connect it to my phone case. If I still drank, I’d hook it to my jeans on a big night out. I’d never leave my phone in a cab again.

You don’t want to keep posting the same picture every time. I can mount this Railblaza GoPro Boom anywhere on my boat to change the POV. I can film behind me, so you get the feeling of reeling in a big catch. I can point it toward me to share my reactions or to show my hands and give a sense of technique. The real challenge is making sure I hide any landmarks, so I don’t blow up any secret spots. [laughs]

None of the stuff I get is “free.” I work hard to earn and keep every sponsor. It took me 10 years, but I finally got MirroLure. I love to use their suspended baits. You have to finesse the lure through the water column by twitching it along with just the right tension to fool the fish. It takes patience. And practice. But it’s more fun, and you catch bigger fish.

With a custom rod builder, not only are you supporting a local tradesman and skill set, but he’s constantly homing in what works for you. HandTide Stix knows I like a six-foot, medium-light, fast action rod. That means it’s got sensitivity, but it’s not floppy. And the second something hits the bait, I can feel it from the lure, through the line, all the way into my hand. Because as soon as you feel the bite, you want to set the hook, or you’ll miss the opportunity.

My Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 14 360XR is like a Cadillac. It’s stable, comfortable and fully loaded. It has six rod holders and a huge front hatch for storing batteries, outerwear, your lunch, whatever. But the reason it’s the best is the steering system. I can turn a handle to pivot this thing 360 degrees, so I can pedal backwards and hold position against a current, or I can turn in a complete circle if the fish runs behind me. I can literally parallel park this thing.

I’m a family man. Sometimes I don’t have all day. My Newport Vessels 180 Pro Trolling Motor lets me get to and from the fish fast — and give my 49-year-old legs a break. It works great with my Dakota Lithium battery, which weighs as much as a small child but lasts for days. Even so, I keep an old SUP paddle on board, too, because you can’t be too careful.

I used to use the same nets that I waded with, which are just big circles with short handles. But those are tricky when you’re sitting down in a kayak. My EGO S2 Slider telescopes out from four feet to six feet, so I bring the net to the fish instead of the other way around.

I wear everything AFTCO (American Fish and Tackle Company.) These Everyday Shorts are light, cool, stretchy, and splash resistant. Actually, they’re great for traveling, because you can wash them in the sink and they dry quick. And one thing I hate is sunblock and clogged pores. That’s why I love my Yurei Air-O Hooded Performance Shirt. It’s SPF rated, super light and breathable, and covers my whole face and head.

Polarized amber lenses are the best for seeing fish believe it. But I can’t be dropping shades in the water. These Bomber Clutch sunglasses are only $70 and they float. Even better, the foam they put on the frames adds some extra cushion so you don’t get those pressure headaches.

I like listening to music when I’m not actively fishing. But headphones are dangerous, because you can’t hear incoming boats. This YakPower Dry Tunes speaker has a magnetic base, so I can bump some celebration music on the way back in. It even floats in case I accidentally “yard sale.”

When you’re fishing shallows, you don’t need to put out an anchor. My Yakgear Stakeout Pole is a six-foot graphite rod that you can run through the scupper hole in your kayak and straight into the mud. It’s super light, super convenient, and I can also use it as a push/pull, too.

A lot of kayak anglers are minimalists. I’m a floating tackle shop. I’m showing up with six rods: I got my top water lure ready, a jig rod, a hard bait, a poppin’ cork, live bait. Because I don’t wanna be retying when the fish are biting. But that’s also why I use Top Water Speed Clips. They look like a tiny paper clip that you tie on the end of your line, and you can take lures off and on with ease. My sponsors can’t use a photo if I’m not wearing a life jacket. But I don’t want to be running around the internet in a red life jacket and a green hoodie looking like a Christmas card. [laughs] Luckily, this Hobie Inflatable PFD is a nice neutral color. But the best part is it uses CO2 cartridges. So, it’s not super bulky, and it inflates itself immediately in an emergency. And that’s what’s important about all this stuff. Sure, you want it to look cool, but it damn sure better work.

questionauthority upfront

soundcheck

getactive startingpoint roadmap

THIS BUD’S FOR YOU?

gokite milepost

Cannabis seltzers. CBD teas. THC coffees and microdosed tonics. Move over, craft cocktails and microwbrews. Weed drinks are now the biggest buzz in the beverage world, and they’re flooding the Outer Banks with feelings of euphoria — especially for the folks who are selling them.

“They are the thing in 2025, for sure,” says Greg Dawson, a 23-year veteran of the beverage industry and Outer Banks rep for Tryon Distributing. “THC and CBD drink sales have been off the chain, basically for the entire last year.”

graphiccontent outthere gohunt gosurf endnotes

Bye-bye, beer. From bars to coffee shops, cannabis drinks are the cool, new buzz.

Pop into any Outer Banks bottle shop, bar or cafe and you’ll see rows of sleek, branded cans with promises of improved calmness, more clarity, better sleep, and effortless socializing, flavored with everything from pineapple jalapeño to lemongrass lavender. Whether infused with CBD, THC or both, these drinks offer a new way to socialize without the slurred speech, blackout moments, hangovers and other next-day regrets.

“It kind of reminds me of the craft beer phenomenon of the 90s,” Dawson says. “Everybody wants on board. It’s a big money grab right now.”

Art by Jesse Davis

The numbers agree. Business Research Insights says the global market for cannabisinfused drinks was $1.94 billion in 2024. By 2035, it will be over $6 billion.

“This has been a big surprise for us,” says Laura Wayland, co-owner of Chip’s Wine and Beer in Kill Devil Hills, which began stocking cannabis-infused drinks in early summer 2024. “It sold okay at first, but this summer they started selling out immediately. Now we have between 30 and 40 varieties and are getting new ones every week. We are running out of room.”

Wayland says she only sees this market growing.

“People want to see what’s new, what’s hot. We will start seeing seasonal offerings. I see the bigger stores like grocery stores jumping in, too.”

So, what exactly are these drinks? Let’s have a quick science break. Remember that the Cannabis sativa plant contains more than 100 chemical compounds known as cannabinoids. The most wellknown of these compounds are delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) — the one that gets you high and also helps ease pain and nausea — and cannabidiol (CBD), which is not intoxicating and is used for anxiety and pain relief, sleeping and medicinal purposes.

Varieties of cannabis that contain low levels of THC (less than 0.3%) are classified as hemp, while those with more than 0.3% THC are considered marijuana.

The cannabis-infused beverages found in North Carolina are made with hemp-based Delta 9 THC, which produces psychoactive effects that are generally milder than marijuana-based THC, but still enough to feel something.

According to Bon Appetit magazine, cannabis drinks are made with a process called nano-emulsification, which breaks down THC and CBD into particles that can be infused into liquids with consistent dosing. Drinkable compounds interact with the body’s soft tissues and do not have to be processed through the liver, so they hit your system faster. Unlike edibles, which

take up to an hour to kick in, “drinkables” start working in as little as 10-20 minutes.

The legality of this all comes down to where the THC originates. Hemp-derived Delta 9 THC is legal under the 2018 U.S. Farm Bill — as long as it’s under 0.3% by dry weight. That loophole is how North Carolina (and 23 other states) allow recreational cannabis drinks, even though marijuana remains illegal here.

A plot twist is that while North Carolina does sell these drinks, Virginia — where marijuana is legal to grow up to a certain amount — does not sell them.

Local retailers say visiting Virginians are stocking up here on the OBX.

“ THINGS CAN GET PRETTY WEIRD IF YOU CHUG A 50MG THC SELTZER ON AN EMPTY STOMACH.

While technically anyone of any age can buy cannabis drinks, responsible businesses (including everyone quoted here) stick to a strict 21+ policy. They also educate customers about dosage, because things can get pretty weird if you chug a 50mg THC seltzer on an empty stomach.

These unregulated times will not last. Governor Josh Stein recently created an advisory council to look into ways to tame the market. Distributors and retailers also suspect the state and federal government will eventually create more regulations and taxes on the products.

But, for now, they continue to flow freely. And plentifully.

Dawson says one reason for the rise in cannabis drinkables is that many people are over alcohol, whether that means quitting or cutting back.

“People are tired of the hangover but still want to be social, and this is a great way to still feel like a part of the party,” he says, adding that he personally likes the calming effects of cannabis drinks with CBD. “It’s

more like a body buzz versus a head buzz.; it allows my mind to slow down a bit.”

Maybe that’s why THC drinks appear to skew older — at least at Waverider’s Coffee & Deli, where cans and tap cannabis beverages currently outsell beer and wine by two or threefold, according to co-owner Bobbie Stager.

“We certainly have the 20s and 30s,” she says, “but I see more 50 and older than younger. A lot of people drink them for sleeping and calming down.”

And unlike beers, you don’t need to keep pounding pints to stay buzzed. Which is good, because cannabis-infused beverages are not cheap.

Wayland says their offerings range from $4 to $15 for a can, with the higher-end being a higher mg product. Big bottle formats, which are used like mixers to add to water or seltzer, range from $25 to $60 a bottle.

And at Jack Brown’s Beer and Burger Joint in Kill Devil Hills, assistant GM and beer buyer Dewey Wise says cannabis drinks are more on par with a liquor drink than a “barley sandwich.” He tries to keep his draft offerings in the range of $8 to $10 and the cans in the range of $8 to $11.

Wise says cannabis drinks started flying off the shelves during “Dry January” 2025. At the same time, they don’t seem to cut into the booze sales. That makes it the perfect product for merchants — and potable pot lovers.

“It’s not necessarily taking from the same pie; it’s introducing a whole new pie to the table,” Wise says. “People who don’t drink now pop in here and have one with lunch or dinner or drink them when they are socially mingling and watching bands. We are pulling people into a bar without alcohol, and that’s kind of a funny concept.”

A concept that’s giving more and more Outer Bankers a case of the giggles.

— Terri Mackleberry

WEED DRINKS FOR DOPES:

A First-Timer’s Guide to Canned Cannabis

Whether you’re going California sober (all weed, no alcohol), weeknight dry, or just cannabis curious, here’s a cheat sheet for getting started.

• Start low, go slow: Try 2-5mg of THC and wait an hour. Seriously. Sip it

• Avoid anything with 50mg or more: These are for seasoned professionals. One brave soul said she felt high for days after one 50mg seltzer.

• THC kicks in fast: Often within 10-20 minutes — faster than edibles, slower than tequila shots — but the full effects may take longer.

• For social vibes: Try 2-5mg THC for happy sensations, maybe with some CBD for warm fuzzy feelings.

• For daytime: Stick with 1015mg CBD or low-dose THC (1-2mg) so you can get things done without zoning out.

• For anxious minds: CBD is your buddy. THC might ramp you up if your mind is already spinning.

• For bedtime: Higher doses of CBD and/or some low doses of THC can help shut it all down.

And lastly, keep these pretty cans out of the reach of kids — and don’t drive under the influence, even if it’s only a strawberrylemon seltzer.

soundcheck

getactive

PEACHES, PIES & POWER CHORDS

What’s the largest music venue this side of Virginia Beach’s Veterans United Amphitheater? It’s not Roanoke Island Festival Park. (Maxes out at 3500.) Or VB’s new indoor/outdoor oceanfront option, The Dome. (Holds just 5000.) It isn’t even the Portsmouth Pavilion. (Seats and stands 6500.)

No, the new hot spot for big bands is actually a hunk of Barco farmland along the Caratoke Highway. A venue that’s just two years old but can fit 7000-plus people — and is already drawing in major acts, from the Marshall Tucker Band to ZZ Top.

“It’s called The Back 40 because it’s literally 40 acres,” says Tony Markun, Morris Farms’ Live Music Promoter. “But we also have two stages near the bar, and about 120 bands play on them each year — from local talent to Nashville acts.”

graphiccontent outthere gohunt rearview gosurf photofinish

Of course, it wasn’t always that way. When Walton and Ginger Morris opened their modest roadside farmstand in 1982, it was the kind of idyllic set-up Bob Ross would imagine: an awning stretched between a pair of pecan trees; wooden bins piled high with white sweet corn; vine-ripened tomatoes, fresh melons, strawberries; and plenty of sweet peaches. Before long,

How a Currituck farmstand became the Outer Banks’ biggest music venue.

Banks-bound travelers would see the line of red tractors and instinctively swing right to stock up on produce — and maybe enjoy a picnic lunch.

Then, in 2008, the Morris’ son Chet and his wife Angela joined the family business full-time. Chet noticed that not every client looked so relaxed.

“Some of the guys seemed tired and angry about having to shop after driving eight to ten hours,” he recalls. “I began asking: ‘Would you be happier, and want to stay longer, if you could have a beer?’”

The answer was almost always yes. So, in 2012, they opened a bar — with live music — right at the entrance to the market.

“You could park, go straight to the bar — or hit the restroom first — listen to music, sip and shop, and settle into the OBX.”

Today, live music plays every Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 5pm, May to December. And with as many as five bands sharing two stages, people can pop in all weekend and hear something new.

“We’ve doubled our local customer base,” says Chet. “Folks know they can come out,

people here,” Chet says. “It fell in our lap, and we’d have felt like fools not to run with it afterwards. We got mentioned on the Joe Rogan Experience, a few global newscasts, and even in Rolling Stone. That same year, we started building the new venue, Back 40 Live.”

The first official show opened in May 2024, with Craig Morgan headlining. This year, they lined up six major dates for 2025, including a sure-fire string of genrebusting shows for fall, from the “Shaggin’ at the Farm Beach Music Festival” to a Dave Matthews tribute band, a Rock Autism Music Festival Benefit headlined by O.A.R., to ZZ Top’s Elevation tour.

feel good vibes, bring the dog, bring the kids.”

“

“IT’S CALLED THE BACK 40 BECAUSE IT’S LITERALLY 40 ACRES.”

Then, in 2023, fate stepped in. It happened on a hot August afternoon, when a previously unknown artist named Oliver Anthony played his first-ever live show on one of those small stages. Markun had heard Anthony perform at a private gathering and booked him as an opener for a casual pop-up concert at Morris Farm.

But just days before the show, Anthony released his breakout single, “Rich Men North of Richmond,” which went viral almost instantly and skyrocketed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 — the first artist ever to debut at No. 1 with no prior chart history.

The low-key concert turned into a phenomenon. Word spread fast. By showtime, the cozy farm was overflowing with music fans.

“We ultimately had five-to-six thousand

Markun says he does extensive research to pick the artists, and lots of factors are in play. Summer is geared toward tourists while spring and fall is dominated by locals, from Greenville, VA all the way down to the beach. There’s also deciding who plays on which stage.

“For the smaller stages, it’s all about keeping it fresh,” says Markun. “For the Back 40, it’s a big name who’s been around a while that draws an older crowd who can pay for tickets. But I’ll also try to find some up-and-coming opener that will attract a younger crowd.”

And while the festival-style set-up for Back 40 only seats up to 7,500 for now, they’re already dreaming bigger.

“Some bands need a threshold of 12,000 to 15,000 to perform,” says Markun. “My goal is ultimately to get artists like Chris Stapleton and the real Dave Matthews.”

Morris adds: “There’s room to expand, but we’d need to figure out parking.”

Both Morris and Markun say it’s not easy actively farming live music. But each time a live show sprouts up, the rewards are sweeter than a bushel of peaches.

“Watching a field turn into a concert venue is amazing,” says Markun. “When it all comes together and the artist takes the stage, and you see those smiling, dancing people — you know it was worth it.”

— Brian Tress

Outer

Sweet sunsets, fresh music.

Photo: Kyle Marshall

Art by Chris Wheeler

GHOSTED

I’ve already started shopping for places for my spirit to haunt. Not being morbid — just proactive.

Might be the cookie-cutter Karens who called the cops on our annual fall rager at 8pm. Or the peeps with twin Dachshunds who start yapping the second dawn breaks. Or it could be the house behind us, where the family only visits twice a year — but leaves the porch light on 24-7. (After all, if they can keep me sleepless and screaming for more than a decade, the least I can do is return the favor.)

Seems selfish though. I’m not the only Outer Banker who’s suffered the slings and arrows of more modern times. Why focus on my own petty problems when I could take on some social woes and send a real message?

Maybe I’ll find the worst clear-cutting developer and fill his ears with the sounds of sawing tree limbs. Or follow some horrible tipper out of the restaurant and rattle change in his ears like Jacob Marley’s

Weeks, lmbt #10201 Tracie Rosso, lmbt #02083

Everett, lmbt #20629

ponderous chains. I might even spend summers sneaking between big-ass “event houses” and making mischief. Not like I’d throw blood on the bride mid-party — just raid the bar — then watch drunk bachelors brawl over who drank all the booze. (Best day ever!)

“ I REFUSE TO SPEND MY AFTERLIFE IN A NEGATIVE SPACE.

I could even go full-on “political poltergeist.” Sneak around from place to place settling old scores. Start each night piling up pizza boxes on Richard Burr’s doorstep. Move onto draping Bill Cook’s trees in single-use plastics. By morning, I’d bury Jordan Hennessey’s bed in Jockey’s Ridge sand, then laugh as he wakes up screaming, “I’ll sue!”

But that sounds like a whole lot of labor. And eternity does last a while. Besides, I refuse to spend my whole afterlife occupying a negative space. I’d much rather enjoy one of them old oceanfront Nags Headers. Ride the back porch and watch

families make fresh memories from that one eerie hammock that never stops swinging no matter how windy. Or hole up in some college kids’ rickety beach box, so I can party like it’s 1999 ad nauseam.

Shit. Maybe I’ll just bounce between piers. Embrace the beam-shaking energy from every big storm. Rock to local bands night after night. I could even pitch in and help by hosing off fish guts after hours —  and pulling barstools out from under troublemaking tourists. Or just keep our favorite, tottering Falstaffs walking upright as they sway down the gangplank toward waiting taxis. Wailing and wallowing among lively spirits for time immortal.

Who knows? Hopefully there’s plenty of time left to decide. Just let it be known, I’m on the hunt. And if some day after I die your Solo cup goes missing between sips at a late-night soiree. Or your board disappears during a full moon, then returns the next morning with fresh feet in the wax (and most likely a mystery ding). Maybe you’re just chilling in the hot tub, totally alone, and the bubbles go full blast for no reason. Don’t freak out. It’s just me soaking up the last of the good life. — C. White

HEIGH, HO. HEIGH, HO. IT’S OFF TO WORK YOU GO…

SUMMERTIME. For visitors, it’s all family fun and beach day flume rides. Like some salty, smile-filled Disneyland. But for us resident workers, it’s a three-month slog in the salt mines. By the time we come up for air in September, everyone feels a bit dopey, sleepy — and more than a little grumpy. Then comes fall — aka “locals’ summer.” Suddenly, we’re the ones “zippadee-doo-dah-ing” around our backyard amusement park while y’all march home to “whistle while you work.” And my, oh my, that’s a wonderful day.

PHOTO: ED TUPPER

Think you’re fired up for Labor Day Weekend? You should check the temp ‘round Aug. 27-31’s WRV OBX Pro Presented by Pacifico, where international top pro surfers blaze through daily heats at Jennette’s Pier — and light up local watering holes for nightly ragers. Get the latest at www.wrvobxpro.com

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• On Aug. 30, let Trick Fly’s high-voltage power anthems lure you over to the Wanchese Tiki Bar’s Labor Day Concert & Pig Pickin’ at 5:30pm. Then check back in Sept. 6 when Rednek Hotel cranks some good ol’ Southern Rock at 7pm. Follow Facebook for updates. • Then celebrate good times with Kool & The Gang, Aug. 30, when the Live From OBX Summer Concert Series ends their season at Roanoke Island Festival Park at 6:30pm. Tix and deets at www.livefromobx.com • On Sept. 1 you can work up a sweat — and lift up your neighbors — when Buxton’s Labor Day Lighthouse Run does laps around the still scaffolded beacon, and donates funds to Hatteras Island Meals, the Buxton-Frisco Pathway, and the Buxton Civic Assn. 7:30am start. Sign up at www.barrierislandgroup.com. • Or just spend every Mon. in Sept. chilling with friends and supporting 40+ local artisans and vendors when the Soundside Sunset Festival fills Rodanthe’s Waves Village Watersports Resort with local creators, live bands, cold bevvies, and more. From 4pm ’til that big, fiery orb dunks below the horizon. More at www.soundsidemarket.com

upfront soundcheck

getactive startingpoint roadmap

• Rather watch the sun come up while stretching out? Bolt up to the Town of Duck’s free Yoga on the Green (Tues.) and Dynamic Flow (Thurs.) classes all the way through Sept. 7:30am start. Too lazy to drive? Pop open a laptop and live stream at www.townofduck.com.

• Back in Nags Head, Dowdy Park Yoga bends bodies every Tues. at 7:30am from Sept. 2-Oct. 28. And pop in Sept. 3, when Manteo Murphy shakes booties from 6:30-8pm. See their Facebook page for the latest. • How’s KDH roll? Find out the first Tues. of every month at Kill Devil Derby Brigade’s New Skater Nights, where anyone 18+ is invited to Aviation Park to learn the basics of roller skating and roller derby. 6-8pm. No previous experience necessary; limited loaner gear available. Email thekilldevilderbybrigade@gmail.com for deets. • Or rub elbows with fellow philatelists when the Outer Banks Stamp Club meets every second Sun. of the month from 2:30-5pm at Grace Lutheran Church by the Sea in Nags Head. • Jog up to Corolla Sept. 3 & 10 if you want to catch the final stops of the Corolla Lighthouse 5K/1-Mile Race Series, where the whole fam can run wild on the Whalehead grounds. 8am start; pre-reg begins at 6:50am. Sign up and learn more at www. obxrunning.com. • Then hightail it to the Hilton Garden Inn, Sept. 3 & 4, when the OBX Arts & Craft Festival lines up 24 legendary local painters, photogs, jewelers and more to support three favorite charities: NEST, Beach Food Pantry and Coastal Humane Society. Wed., 10am5pm. Thurs., 10am-4pm. Find daily updates via @obxartsandcraftfestival.

• Wanna see the Elizabethan Gardens flutter with color? Come out every Wed. & Fri. in Sept. for Butterfly Releases, where fans can see these helpful pollinators take their first

flights and learn tips for how to attract them to their personal gardens. 10am & 2pm. Details and tickets at www.elizabethangardens.org. • Or chase shiny fishies with friends for a shot at big prizes — and bigger bragging rights — when the 40th Anniversary Hatteras Village Invitational Surf Fishing Tournament invites salty, 6-person teams to tangle in the swash, Sept. 4-6. Email hatterassurffishing@yahoo.com for info. • On Sept. 5, spend the eve floating around Downtown Manteo, when First Friday fills streets with live music, late shopping, hot food, cold bevvies, and cool peeps from 6-8pm. Meanwhile, the Dare Arts gallery reveals three fresh exhibits: Todd Hale’s mixed media installation will open in The Courtyard (and hang through mid-Nov.); The Vault’s “Faces of the Outer Banks” will showcase portraits by David Beal; and The Courtroom will reveal all the outdoor-inspired entries from their first-ever Fresh from the Outer Banks: A Plein Air Event. (Hangs through Sept. 26). Wanna know more? Maybe even participate? A prospectus awaits at www.darearts.org. • Come Sept. 6, offshore fishing and online auctions help fund affordable healthcare for needy families, thanks to the Community Care Clinic of Dare’s 4th Annual Billfish Tournament. This year has two weigh stations — Oregon Inlet Fishing Center and Pirate’s Cove — which mean double the fun for afternoon oglers. Learn more at www. dareclinic.org. • Just looking to hook some fresh produce, local honey, home-baked breads, or other artisanal wares? The season’s last two Manteo Downtown Markets will run Sept. 6 & 13 from 9am-1pm at George Washington Creef Park. (More at www.manteonc.gov.) But Wanchese’s Secotan Market will carry on every Sat. through Sept., from 8am-12pm, before hours switch to 9am-12pm, Oct. 4-Nov. 23 — as well as Nov. 26’s Pre-Thanksgiving Market. Vendors and other details at www. secotanmarket.com.

• And Jennette’s Pier is stocked with America’s freshest young surf talent for Sept. 6-7’s USA Surfing Prime Series, where any grom could become a future Olympic gold medalist — including a slew of local rippers. Find invitees and more at www.usasurfing.org

• Immerse yourself in a collective century of classical music on Sept. 6, when the Outer Banks Forum for the Lively Arts brings the Virginia Symphony Orchestra to First Flight High School at 7pm. Get deets and tix at www.outerbanksforum.org

• The Tri-Villages get a taste of tribal culture when the Chicamacomico Historic Site teams up with Frisco Native American Museum’s Barbara Miller for talks on Native American Water “Monsters” (Sept. 10), the Tribes of the Outer Banks (Sept. 17), and the Native American Worldview (Sept. 24). More at www.chicamacomico.org.

• Fitness freaks pile on the punishment, Sept. 12-13, when the Outer Banks Tri swim-run-bikes back through town. Fri. is all about packet pick-up and practice; Sat. sees a full day of action in Sprint and Olympic distances. Sign up and learn more at www.obxse.org. • And fluttering fabric makes for family fun when Kitty Hawk Kites’ Outer Banks Kite Festival returns to Jockey’s Ridge, Sept. 12-13. From 10am-4pm, the nation’s best stunt kite pilots perform acrobatics — and provide free lessons — while massive display kites fill the sky. Plus, on Sat., the Speedy Sprout Sprint will see whose kite can reach the clouds first at 11am. Full details at www.kittyhawk.com. • Or just plop down in the grass for a family friendly flick at Dowdy Park Movie Nights, Sept. 12 (7:45pm), Oct. 3 (6:45pm) & Nov. 7 (5:45pm). Follow their Facebook page to see what’s playing — or to vote for your favorite selection. • Then lose the kids — and score some laughs — when Theatre of Dare presents Neil Simon’s Last of the Red Hot Lovers, the story of a middle-aged, married man who’s looking to swing, but keeps slipping up. Sept. 12, 13, 18, 19, & 20 at 7:30pm; and Sept. 14 & 21 at 2pm. Buy tix at www.theatreofdareobx.com. • And a diverse rainbow of revelry awaits LGBTQ+ folks and their allies at the 14th Annual Outer Banks Pridefest! Starts with Sept. 12’s Out at Sea Sunset Cruise aboard the Crystal Dawn (5-7pm) before the party heads to Rodanthe’s Good Winds for an OBX Pride & Drag Show, where the one-and-only Delighted Tobehere will perform a real cabaret (10-11:15pm), followed by a Dance Party with the SoulOne DJ (11:30pm-1am). On Sept. 13, Roanoke Island Festival Park overflows with food and craft vendors, face painting and games, and live performances by Raygun Ruby, Hot Sauce, SoulOne, and Mama’s Black Sheep between top drag entertainers (12-6pm). Then, from 8-11pm, BYOB to a TBD access for OBX Pride Beach Party with a DJ and tiki

torches, before bolting back to Good Winds for a Late Night Party with more beats from midnight ’til 2am. And on Sun., Sept. 14, The Waterfront Trellis hosts a Big Gay Drag Brunch at 11am with mimosas, bloody marys and Mrs Kasha Davis, followed by a 2pm Survivors Wrap Party at Old Tom’s Beer, Wine & Provisions, with acoustic tunes and classic banter from That Guy Shane. Find deets and tix at www.obxpridefest.com. Just remember: all daytime events are family friendly; all nighttime events ARE NOT! • Young bucks beware! Nags Head Woods’ Bow Hunting Season returns to thin the deer population, Sept. 13-Jan. 1. (With an extended season from Jan. 11-Feb. 15.) Better stick to the trails if you don’t wanna get stuck. And remember: no bikes on trails, ever. Get maps online at www.nature.org/nhw • Love hunting for litter?

On Sept. 13, NC Beach Buggy Association’s Adopt-A-Highway program will clean up NC 12 around Ramp 4 near Oregon Inlet from 7:30-10:30am. Then return Sept. 20 to help Adopt-A-Beach near Salvo’s Ramp 23 from 9am-12pm. Email tom.brueckner@ncbba.org for details. • Or go pick up a pile of native plant species — and gather a heap of horticultural knowledge to beautify local landscapes — at Sept. 13’s Dare County Extension Master Gardeners Fall Gardening Fair, complete with 10am presentations on Fall Clean-Up & Planting. 9am-12pm. Find deets on Facebook • Learn all the gritty details of sand management — and toast your fellow dunehuggers with light refreshments — when Friends of Jockey’s Ridge hosts a panel discussion as part of Sept. 13’s 50th Anniversary Dune Day Celebration. Follow their Facebook page for times and updates. • Then, 54 years of surf contest camaraderie descends upon Jennette’s Pier, Sept. 14-20, for the ESA Eastern Surfing Championships! This annual tradition draws whole families from Maine to Miami for a week of ripping waves and making memories. Can’t make the beach to cheer the home

team? (Watch heats live at www.surfesa.org.) • Better blow off work early, Sept. 15-17, as the 14th Annual Surfalorus Film Festival packs the pier’s Oceanview Hall with 23 stokefilled flicks — plus special presentations and free oysters from the NC Oyster Trail. Score titles, times, and tix at www.surfalorus.org • Sept. 19-20 is all about working watermen culture when Hatteras Village’s Day at the Docks serves up a weekend of cooking demos and commercial fishing-themed competitions. The fun starts with Fri. eve’s Seafood Under the Stars Chef’s Dinner, featuring locally sourced fare from 6-8pm. Then, Sat.’s an all-day affair of educational exhibits, community and artist vendors, music and food demos from 10am-4pm — including the Seafood Throwdown, where master chefs manipulate mystery pieces of fruits de mer — followed by the traditional Blessing of the Fleet at 6pm. Sail over to www.hatterasonmymind.com for more tasty tidbits. • Or savor the excitement of catching and releasing a single species — and possibly keeping a big fat trophy — when the Ocracoke Red Drum Shootout returns Sept. 19-20. Learn more at www. visitocracokenc.com • She flutes! You score! On Sept. 20, native Outer Banks flautist Sydney Guns will share a special recital at Grace Lutheran Church at 2pm. And music fans and hungry families are equally rewarded at Sept. 28’s Grateful Friends: A Musical Feast, when local players cook up a 4pm concert to benefit the Beach Food Pantry. Call 252-955-0706 with questions or go to www. gracelutheranobx.org. • Looking for a professional race that moves at its own pace? Try Sept. 21’s inaugural Corolla Ten-Miler & Family Fun Run, where would-be joggers of any age can stroll, jog or dash around Historic Corolla Park. 8am start. Register and learn more at www.corollatenmiler.com • “Pick it up, people!” That’s the rally cry behind Sept. 21’s Kitty Hawk Kites & Surfrider Foundation Fall Beach Cleanup From 4-5pm, head to Soundside Road Public Access to grab gloves and bags, then go spit shine your favorite

piece of sand. Get the latest at outerbanks.surfrider.org. • Then, ride the new wave of progressive bluegrass on Sept. 21, when the Jon Stickley Trio brings a fluid torrent of flatpicked guitar, fiery fiddle and fierce percussion to Hi-Vibe Holistics Listening Room Score tix and hear clips at www.jonstickley.com

• What happens when abstract painting merges with vintage doilies and table linens? See for yourself when Tiffany Lindsey’s Dust Collectors Exhibit hangs at Glenn Eure’s Ghost Fleet Gallery, Sept. 23-Oct. 31. Even better, hear how she does it firsthand at Oct. 12’s Meet the Artist Reception. 2-4pm. More at www. glenneureart.com. • On Sept. 23, share sweet times with friends and neighbors — and the occasional emergency responder and elected official — at the annual KDH Ice Cream Social. Just head to Aviation Park from 4:307pm for free burgers, hotdogs and treats, plus yard games and live music by the First Flight High School Fine Arts Group. (PS: stay tuned for a KDH Fire Department Open House in early Oct.) Get the full 411 at www.kdhnc.com. • Like your grape juice and jams to have a little more kick? Better high step it to Sanctuary Vineyards on Sept. 25 for the final Thurs. Acoustic Sunset of the season. 5:30-8:30pm. (Find each weekly act at www.sanctuaryvineyards.com.)

• On Sept. 26, the Wanchese Tiki Bar will shake to the sounds of Doc Perkins and the Medicine Men at 7pm. See Facebook for updates.• Hatteras Island shimmies with creative output, Sept. 26, when the Rock The Cape Reimagined Gallery Crawl lines up a powerful collection of visiting artists, live demos, and/or musicians at each location. More at www.darearts.org. •

And the beach shimmers with four species of fish — Bluefish, Black Drum, Sea Mullet, and Pompano — and an even wider selection of anglers with the return of Sept. 26-28’s Hatteras Island Surf Fishing Challenge. Find deets and register at www.fishermanspost. com • Need a reason to support Southern Shores’ 17th Annual Throwdown Surf Classic on Sept. 27? How ’bout because it’s the funnest, feel-good surf event on the beach? One where local groms get their first taste of competition — and families cheer every ride? Or the fact they’ve raised $245,000 to stoke out local families via donations to the Outer Banks Relief Foundation. Follow @throwdownsurfclassic for the latest. • Flying history never feels freer than on Sept. 27, when the Wright Brothers National Memorial waives its entry fee in honor of National Public Lands Day. (Except maybe Nov. 11, when they do it again for National Aviation Day.) And in-between, you better go visit the Bodie Island Lighthouse before they cut off the climbing on Oct. 13. Purchase $10 tix at www.recreation.gov. • On Sept. 30, enjoy cruisy tunes by the Barcats — and dreamy sunsets by Ma Nature — when the last Duck Unplugged of the season lights up Duck Amphitheater at 6pm. Learn more at www.townofduck.com • Outer Banks Brewing Station’s Pubkin Patch will celebrate fall all Oct. with seasonally inspired specials and events. Plus, the offseason’s favorite combo of tasty apps and brain teasers — Tapas & Trivia — runs every Thurs., starting Oct. 2. Find times and details at www.obbrewing.com. • And hold on to your derbies, history buffs, as a series of Whalehead Centennial Anniversary Events runs every Wed. in Oct., including High

Whalehead’s Centennial Celebration takes a sepia-toned stroll through Corolla’s history each Wed. in Oct. Photo: Northern OBX Tourism

Tea & Croquet on the Lawn (Oct. 1, 4-7pm); A “Knight” of Piano (Oct. 8, 5-6:30pm); Behind the Scenes Tours of Whalehead, Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education & Currituck Maritime Museum (Oct. 15 & 22; 9-11:30am). And on Oct. 29, enjoy a Grand Finale Dinner with food by Red Sky Café and live music by the Wayne Tympanick Band. (5:30-8pm.) Go to northernouterbanks.com for pricing and tix. • Just want to learn more about hot environmental topics? And maybe crack a coldie with cool peeps? OBX Green Drinks returns to Waverider’s Coffee, Deli & Market starting in Oct. and going through Mar. 2026. Keep tabs on their Facebook page for speakers and dates. • Horror fiends will shriek over the return of the Halloween International Film Festival, Oct. 2-4, where three days and nights of independent flicks, photo ops, and networking make for a screaming good time at Manteo’s historic Pioneer Theater. Find ’em on Facebook • And comedy fans will howl at Outer Banks SPCA’s 3rd Annual Stand-Up for Strays, Oct. 3, where rising-star stand-up Aaron Weber will perform from 6-8pm at the Pirate’s Cove Pavilion — and every penny raised keeps shelter pets smiling. Purchase tix at www.obxspca.org or by calling 252-475-5620. • First Friday is extra festive, Oct. 3, as Dare Arts hosts their big annual fundraiser — the Great Art Heist. From 6-8pm, mingle and bid money on one-of-akind pieces to support our creative community (hangs through Oct. 23). Meanwhile, The Vault is a party of eye-popping paintings by Willow Rea Temple. (Hangs through Nov. 1.) And, of course, the streets overflow with golden music and glowing faces. More at www. darearts.org. • And fancy cars save future Christmases, Oct. 4, when the OBX Rod & Custom Fall Toy Festival fills Soundside Event Site with everything from vintage convertibles to tricked-out trucks — and proceeds help park much-needed presents under needy kids’ trees. Follow their Facebook page for updates. • On Oct. 4, watch grown men kick serious sand — and earn serious cash — when Tortuga’s Lie’s King of the Beach Volleyball Comp draws the East Coast’s top 2-person teams to tussle for $10k. Find all the gritty details on Facebook • On Oct. 4, Sanctuary Vineyards invites whole families to eat bugs and stomp grapes when the Crabdaddy serves up AYCE steamed crabs, while the Crabdaddy Olympics features crazy competitions, like pot throwing. Plus, local libations and live music by the Daniel Jordan Band and Trae Pierce & the T-Stones. $60 in advance; $75 day of. More at www.sanctuaryvineyards.com. • Or just watch local surfers ride weird shapes at Oct. 4’s Which Craft Surf Gathering, which challenges competitors to shred Jennette’s Pier on unique, alternative boards chosen entirely at random — then auctions off the master crafts at a killer after party (location TBD). Plus, 100% of proceeds go to the Outer Banks Relief Foundation, with over $20K raised last year. Follow @ which_craft_surf on insta for updates. • Lace up your lederhosen and chug, chug, chug over to Elizabethan Gardens, Oct. 4, as the first-ever Autumn Ale Faire channels Oktoberfest with a family-friendly day of local breweries, food, and live music. More at www.elizabethangardens.org • Every Sat. in Oct. is a fall celebration at Island Farm’s 14th Annual Pumpkin Patch, where folk can pick up locally grown orange gourds to carve, and the festivities include historic games and activities from doll crafting and candle making to a nail driving contest. 9am-3pm. $11 for ages 4 and up; free for 3 and under. See www. obcinc.org for details. • You might call Oct. 9-11’s Parade of Homes the greatest “nail driving contest” of all, as local contractors show off their favorite builds from top to bottom — baseboard trim to counter tops — so future buyers (and nosy neighbors) can pick them to pieces. Find specs at www.obhomebuilders.org. • Less fixtures — more fiddling! On Oct. 10, the Bryan Cultural Series brings Joseph Decosimo & Friends to the Outer Banks Brewing Station’s main stage for a night of sawin’ strings, pluckin’ banjo, and song traditions from the Appalachian South. Get times, deets at www.bryanculturalseries.org • From Oct. 10-31, four local watering holes put the “boo” in booze, as Monster Kwans, Shack of Shadows, Gloombay’s, and the Spooky 12 transform their decor and specials to become the Ghostly Gallies of the Outer Banks. See their social media pages for the latest. • What happens when you mix an oyster and a hog? A hell of a good fundraiser!

out Oct. 11, when Pigman’s hosts the 24th Annual Oink & Oyster Roast, where bands play, folks feast, and every BBQ plate and salty bivalve helps First Flight & Kitty Hawk Rotary Clubs support local nonprofits and individuals in need. 12-4pm. Info and tix at www.oinkandoyster.org

• Just when you thought it was safe to go back to East Lake, Wicked Woods returns with their haunted forest of fearsome frights. Opens at dark, Oct. 11, 17, 18, 24, 25 & 31. Follow ’em on Facebook. (If you dare.) • Then, get your hair blown back by three bad-ass singers on Oct. 11, when Outer Banks Forum for the Lively Arts presents DIVAS 3, a tribute to female powerhouses like Aretha Franklin, Carole King, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, and many more. 7pm at First Flight High. Find tickets online at www.outerbanksforum.org. • From Oct 11-12, have a blast with the best in brass — and plenty of other instruments — when the 2025 Duck Jazz Festival assembles top players like Adam Hawley, Shayna Steele, Gerald Veasley, Brass Queens, Tito Puente, Jr., First Flight High School Honors Jazz Band, David Esleck Trio ft. Jordan Garrett, and The Hot Lanes with Bobby Jasinski Score a full agenda at www.duckjazz.com

• Want your boys and girls to become future bosses? Sign up for Oct. 11 & Nov. 15’s Peace Garden Project’s Fall Youth Leadership Institute, where students learn essential skills, from growing food to public speaking to financial planning to self- and communityadvocacy — and students are eligible to apply for scholarships upon completion. Learn more at www.peacegardenproject.net

Why’s Ricky Skaggs smiling? ’Cause he headlines the Bluegrass Island music festival on Oct. 18.

• See random critters soar to new heights — or just crawl through the forest — when Oct. 14-19’s Wings Over Water Wildlife Festival offers 60 programs across Eastern NC refuges, including birding, paddling and photography. And on Sat., come out to Captain George’s for a Keynote Reception & Dinner with pelagic seabird expert Brian Patteson. Find full deets — and the word on Dec. 5-7’s WOW Encore — at www.wingsoverwater.org. • Humans of a certain age should know that Medicare Open Enrollment runs Oct. 15-Dec. 7. Make changes through 1-800-MEDICARE, www.medicare.gov, or call a local SHIIP Counselor at KDH’s Baum Center (252-475-5635); Manteo’s Virginia S. Tillett Community Center (252-475-9270); or Buxton’s Fessenden Center (252-475-5650). • There’s nothing “old and in the way” about Oct. 16-18’s 14th Annual Bluegrass Island Music Festival at Roanoke Island Festival Park, where this year’s vibrant lineup includes future and living legends, like: The Malpass Brothers and Rhonda Vincent (Oct. 16); Pam Tillis and the Steel Divers (Oct. 17); and the Steep Canyon Rangers and Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder (Oct 18). Get tix, times and more at www. bluegrassisland.com • Endurance runners get loopy on Jockey’s Ridge when Oct. 18’s Another Round 25K invites individuals and teams to keep doing laps by running a 5K every hour, on the hour. 7:30am-12:30pm. Jog over to www.obxse.org to register. • And kids get hyped up on Halloween at Town of Duck’s Trunk or Treat, Oct. 18, where the cars unload candy from 4-6pm, followed by a sunset showing of Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events. More at www.townofduck.com

• Forget the sweet stuff — bring on the salty good times! On Oct. 18, the Outer Banks Seafood Festival serves up a combo platter of fine coastal cuisine by local chefs, live music by Colton James and The No More Room Band — plus crab pot and cast net competitions, educational booths, and other celebratory salutes to watermen culture. 10am-6pm. Find pricing and schedule at

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www.outerbanksseafoodfestival.org. • Rather reel ’em than peel ’em? Try Oct. 22-25’s 16th Annual NCBBA Red Drum Tournament, where teams and individuals spend 60 hours in the swash battling big fish for a shot at big prizes. More at www.ncbba.org. • On Oct. 23, head to Downtown Manteo’s Waterfront Trellis and celebrate a half-century of high culture, when Dare Arts’ 50th Birthday Party serves up live music by Jeremy & The Generations, heavy hors d’oeuvres, cake, and a champagne toast — before revealing the winning bidders for the Great Art Heist fundraiser. (PS: the attire is “creative cocktail” so pour on the self-expression!) Tix and sponsorship deets at www.darearts.org. • Then, tasty seafood and live tunes fuel a festive party — while proceeds feed OBX Cancer Cares’ coffers — when the 3rd Annual Cancer Shucks Oyster Roast & Low Country Boil returns to Pirate’s Cove Pavilion Oct. 24. 6-10pm. Find tix and sponsorship details at www.outerbankshealth.org • You’ve heard of “throwing back a few beers” — but have you ever seen a keg fly? On Oct. 25, come out to the Soundside Event Site for Outer Banks Brewtag, where DIY engineers find strange ways to fling 1/6-barrels from a 40-foot scaffold, while groundlings cheer and chug from a nearby beer garden and live bands rock the stage. (Proceeds benefit the Rogallo Foundation.) 11am-6pm. Learn more — and even register a team — at www.obxbrewtag.com. • And things really get lit at Elizabethan Gardens on Oct. 25, as the Night of 1587 Pumpkins challenges families to cover the grounds in grimacing, glowing gourds, plus trick-or-treating, contests, hot chocolate, apple cider, a bonfire, and more. Bring your own pumpkin — or carve a free one

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on-site. Get details www.elizabethangardens.org • On Oct. 25, Hatteras Village Haunted Trail carves a spooky good time out of marshy, maritime forest along Seabreeze Trail. Meet at the Hatteras Civic Center between 8-10pm for a ride to the trail. $5; free for children under 6. Email hatterasevents@yahoo.com for the gruesome details. • And scarygood boat builders vie for bragging rights on Oct. 25, when the Town of Manteo Wooden Boat Show shows off restored and newly built specimens at the Roanoke Island Maritime Museum, before an evening awards ceremony crowns two master craftsmen with trophies: the People’s Choice Award and the H.A. Creef Award. Sign up and learn more at www.manteonc.gov. • Captains of the world’s smallest monohulls make “merry time” history in Avon, Oct. 25-Nov. 1, when the OBX-Wind Festival invites hundreds of windsurfers to spend the day speeding across the sound in three different divisions — long distance, slalom and light wind — and the night communing and carrying on. A full manifest awaits at oceanairsports.com.

• On Oct. 26, early holiday shoppers should sail over to Island Farm for the 11th Annual Cody Dough Show, where one-of-a-kind gift ideas include pottery, upcycled silverware, crochet items, and more. 1-4pm.

• Bring the l’il goblins to Aviation Park, Oct. 26, for the 12th Annual Outer Banks Halloween Parade of Costumes, where trick-or-treating starts at 2pm, followed by a 3pm march around the Frog Pond. More at www.obxentertainment.com.

• “Green screen” takes on a whole different meaning, Oct. 30-Nov. 2, when Manteo’s Outer Banks Environmental Film Festival screens informative documentaries on a range of pressing

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“Duck!” Another crazy OBX Brewtag crash-lands at Soundside Event Site, Oct. 25.

issues, from climate change to social justice. Find titles and times at www.obxeff.com. • What’re those cool, quirky paintings inside Duck Town Hall? Find out Oct. 31-Jan. 22, when Emily Holmes presents Curious Currents. (Open during regular biz hours.) Wanna know the method behind her multi-color madness? Come out to Nov. 1’s opening reception from 3-5pm. More at www.townofduck.com. And follow her work @ emilyhomesdesign. • Nothing beats an old-school ghost story. Find out firsthand at Frisco Native American Museum, when Micmac storyteller, Crowfeather, shares scary tales and traditions on Oct. 31, with a repeat show on Nov. 1. Free with museum admission. Full deets at www.nativeamericanmuseum.org • Warning seasonal slackers! White boots and waders won’t get the job done if you wanna take a prize at the Wanchese Tiki Bar’s Halloween Bash & Costume Contest, Oct. 31. 7pm start. Find ’em on Facebook. • Skimpy? Cheesy? Scary? Teasy? Who knows what you’ll see at Outer Banks Brewing Station’s 24th Annual Exotic/Erotic Ball, where contestants push the limits of fabric and taste in hopes of snatching a handful of cash. Follow www.obbrewing.com for details. • Or just spend the weekend sporting an eye patch on Ocracoke, Oct. 31-Nov. 1, as Blackbeard’s Pirate Jamboree outfits the island with historic camps and period attire — even a recreation of Edward Teach’s final battle — and attendees get to stumble around guzzling grog and saying “Arrgh!” More at www.visitocracokenc.com. • Then, let’s do “The Time Warp” again and again, when Dare Arts and Theatre of Dare bring back The Rocky Horror Show for six sexy, scary shows, where zany on-stage antics and crowd participation will transport every audience. Oct. 31 & Nov. 1, 6, 7 & 8 at 7:30pm; Nov. 2 & 9 at 2pm. Snag tix at www.theatreofdareobx.com

outerbanksforum.org for tix. • And then savor western traditions at Nov. 1’s Currituck Bulls & BBQ, where bull riders and barrel racers go bonkers inside Currituck County Rural Center. Meanwhile, the grounds see backyard pitmasters and big-time chefs cross horns in the People’s Choice BBQ Competition. Plus, plenty of kids’ activities, including Mutton Bustin’, where young’uns 65lbs and under can ride sheep for a real taste of their “first rodeo.” 12-6pm. Deets and signups at northernouterbanks.com. • On Nov. 2, mosey over to Wanchese Seafood Industrial Park for the Roanoke Island Historical Association’s inaugural Oyster Shellabration & BBQ! From 1-4pm, stroll the docks enjoying live music while savoring local oysters, Pigman’s BBQ, and a range of regional food specialties, from chowders to biscuits to desserts — perhaps winning prizes via a raffle and a silent auction — all to feed The Lost Colony’s coffers. $95. For more info go to www.thelostcolony.org.

• On Nov. 1, travel back to Beatlemania when the Outer Banks Forum for the Lively Arts brings Grammy-nominated tribute act Liverpool Legends to First Flight High at 7pm. Please, please make your way to www.

• Back on the beach, Nov. 2’s 16th Annual Outer Banks Shrimp Cook-Off sees local chefs try to out steam, sizzle and sauté each other at a TBD location — while consumers outbid each other in a silent auction — and the proceeds support the Outer Banks Center for Dolphin Research. 12-3pm. Visit www.obxdolphins.org for updates. • The spiciest political issues are always local. Be sure to peel off a few minutes to cast a vote in Nov. 4s’ Municipal Elections. (Even better, vote early form Oct. 16-Nov. 1.) Find stations and more at www.darenc.gov • Then cast a line with your fellow fishermen — and maybe hook a keeper prize — when the 67th Cape Hatteras Angler Club Invitational Tournament brings teams and individuals back to Hatteras Island beaches from Nov. 5-8. Get the latest at www.capehatterasanglers.club • From Nov. 7-9, high-speed pedestrians pound pavement — while fans and friends cheer from the sidelines — when the Outer Banks Marathon & Half Marathon stampedes back through town. Looking for a more lowkey race? Sign the family up for Surf Pediatrics’ Surf & Soar

5K, 8K & Fun Run. More at www.obxse.org. • Just wanna share some sidewalk chatter with friends and neighbors? Maybe enjoy later shopping and live local sounds? Head to Manteo’s First Friday on Nov. 7, where the streets brim with happy vibes from 6-8pm, and Dare Arts opens up a brand-new exhibit by top creative and commercial photog Baxter Miller. (Hangs through Nov. 29.) Shoot over to www.darearts.org for details. • It’s never too early to start thinking Christmas. Come out to Dowdy Park Holiday Markets, Nov. 8 & 29, as local elves sell their most magical wares from 9am-12pm. Follow Facebook for vendors and more. • Veterans, active-duty military and their family members use the power of words to process powerful feelings, Nov. 14-16, when Dare Arts’ 13th Annual Veterans Writing Workshop brings in NC Poet Laureate Joseph Bathanti to lead the charge. Registration required. Register online at www.darearts.org. • Do you get confused by all these newfangled smart phones? Maybe you’re looking to stay fit with age? On Nov. 15, come out to KDH Rec Park for the Senior Community Resource Fair, where residents age 55+ — and their families — can network and learn tips on everything from healthier lifestyles to the latest technology. 10am-2pm. Call 252-475-5625 with questions. • Knitted scarves? Carved wood? A killer photo? A sweet treat? Who knows what cool, creative gift you’ll discover when KDH’s First Flight Holiday Markets bring 50+ vendors to Aviation Park, Nov. 15 & 22 (10am-2pm) and Dec.19 (3-7pm). Learn more on Facebook • On Nov. 15, super innovative cuisine — and a few canned goods — come together inside Duck Woods Country Club to help hungry families when the Beach Food Pantry Chefs’ Challenge inspires top cooks to transform nonperishable items into a dish for the ages! 6-10pm. Tix and deets at www.beachfoodpantry.org. • Tickled ivories make for hilarious times and mind-blowing melodies when Blazin’ Keys Dueling Pianos comes to the Outer Banks Brewing Station on Nov. 21. 6-9pm. Score tix at www.obbrewing.com. • And Elizabethan Gardens glows with holiday spirit with the return of WinterLights! From Nov. 21-Dec. 30, select evenings will decorate the grounds with radiant displays and a roaring open-air fire, while the shop bulges with seasonal plants and gifts. 6-9pm. (PS: on Nov. 23, Virginia Dare Night invites residents of Dare, Currituck, and Ocracoke Island to attend for free in exchange for bringing non-perishable items for the Roanoke Island Food Pantry. Proof of residency and pre-registration required.) Get dates, tix and deets at www.elizabethangardens.org. • Seasonal celebs and A-list arts-and-crafters are the star attractions when Soundside Holiday Markets brings in dozens of vendors selling hand-crafted wares, and Santa Claus, The Grinch and Buddy the Elf smile for the camera. Nov. 23 & 30, and Dec. 14. (Rain Dates: Dec. 7 & 20.) 12-4pm. Learn more at www.soundsidemarket.com.

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at the Outer Banks Brewing Station’s Tipsy Turkey Beer Mile, where competitors load up on 1/4-mile sprints and 4 oz. drafts. 11am start; signups from 10-10:45am. More at www. obxrunning.com. • And Nov. 27 sees a series of traditional pre-feast races run from north to south, including: the Corolla Thanksgiving Day 5K/1-Mile (more info at www.obxrunning. com); the Nags Head Village Gobbler 5K to support the Outer Banks Relief Foundation (7:30am; more at www.barrierislandgroup.com); and the Hatteras Island Youth Education Fund’s 14th Annual Surfin’ Turkey 5k & Puppy Drum Fun Run (8am start; more at www.hatterasyouth.com). • Hop a ferry to bridge the holidays on Ocracoke, Nov. 27-29, where a Thanksgiving Turkey Trot runs Thurs. morning. Come Fri., a Historic Open Home Tour will share classic architecture from 2-4pm, before Parade of Boats lights up Silver Lake with glowing holiday vessels. Then spend Sat. shopping for presents at the Holiday Gift Market. See www.visitocracoke.com for a complete calendar. • A sleigh-full of party fiends will descend upon the Outer Banks starting Nov. 28, as the Twelve Bars of Christmas will magically transform a dozen of your favorite watering holes into holiday-themed pop bars, such as Goombrrr’s, Jack Frost’s, Mama Klaus you get the idea. Find a full list of festive participants at www.12barsofchristmas.com. • And everyone’s favorite fat man floats into Nags Head’s Kitty Hawk Kites, Nov. 28-29, when Hangin’ with Santa invites wee ones to snap selfies and test drive toys — while the grown-ups can cruise around making sneaky purchases. Fri.: 10am2pm. Sat.: 1-4pm. And on Nov. 29, slip over to Jockey’s Ridge Kites with Lights, where festive, 19-to-30-foot kites fly from 4-7pm — culminating with the traditional lighting of the Jockey’s Ridge State Park Solar Christmas Tree. More at www.kittyhawk.com. • On Nov. 28, Whalehead becomes a winter wonderland of local wares, when the Christmas Craft Village blankets the lawn with local vendors selling fine arts, handmade cosmetics, baked goods, and other unique treasures. 11am-4pm. Visit northernouterbanks.com for the latest.

“WTF are ‘fish people’?!” Find out firsthand when Emily Holmes’ “Curious Currents” exhibit hangs at Duck Town Hall, Oct. 31-Jan. 22.

• What happened to the good, ol’-fashioned Thanksgiving traditions? Find out Nov. 25 & 26 at Island Farm’s Garden to Hearth, where ye olde historic interpreters show how 19th century Roanoke Islanders prepared to feast, from preserving vegetables to smoking fish to making candles. Plus, pick up freshly harvested produce for your own holiday table. $11 for ages 4+; 3 and under are free. Dig into www.obcinc.org for details. • Fermented bevvies fuel a pre-holiday footrace on Nov. 26

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• On Nov. 29, Sanctuary Vineyard’s Big Currishuck serves a cornucopia of AYCE oysters and BBQ — plus wine samples, live music, hay rides, and more — to create a second holiday feast of smiling faces. $60 in advance, $75 day of. Find deets and tix at www. sanctuaryvineyards.com. • And Nags Head officially sparks the holidays on Nov. 29, when Dowdy Park’s Holiday Tree Lighting fires up an evening of sweets, treats and ornaments, plus St. Nick’s illuminating presence. 3-8pm. Find updates on Facebook • On Dec. 1, celebrate 150 years of glowing history and personal sacrifice when the Currituck Beach Lighthouse celebrates its birthday with free climbs from 11am-4pm, with speeches, cake and a sunset toast from 3:30-5pm. (PS: Donations are always welcome to support another century-and-a-half of preservation work.) More at www.obcinc.org. • Sing a song. Dress a pine tree. Chow some chili. It’s all part of Dec. 2’s Hatteras Village Tree Lighting & Soup Dinner, where residents ring in the holidays by sharing Christmas carols and beaming conifers — followed by a heart-warming free meal. (6pm at the Community Building.) And come back Dec. 13, when the Hatteras Village Christmas Parade floats through town at 2pm, followed by hot chocolate, cookies and an award ceremony. For more, email hatterasevents@yahoo.com.