The Outer Banks Region of North Carolina has so much to offer for your next fall getaway that’ll you need multiple trips to get the full scope. You’ll love what the area has to offer, such as activities on the beautiful coastline, unique restaurants, and festivals that are great for the entire family.
No trip to North Carolina's Outer Banks can be fully realized without spending time on the beaches and coast. Head out on the water with a dolphin tour at Nags Head Dolphin Watch and Research Center. Here scientists will take you along on one of their research trips, so you can see the dolphin habitat and learn about recent discoveries. Make your way to Kitty Hawk Kites if you’re feeling adventurous. They offer classes and equipment for unique activities such as hang gliding, wind surfing, and even jet-packing. If you’re looking to take it easy, the coast is perfect for that as well. You’ll find plenty of easily accessible locations perfect for picnicking, sunbathing, beach games, photography, and more.
Duck is a town located in the Northern part of the Outer Banks and is home to a collection of well received restaurants. The Blue Point has been a fixture in the town for nearly three decades and is the area's first farm-to-table establishment. Their menu features classic Southern cuisine, seafood, and great seasonal dishes. Duck Donuts stands at the opposite end of the culinary spectrum. Their menu is built around creating your own doughnuts with custom coatings, toppings, and sauces. You’ll also find a variety of beverages, treats, and breakfast sandwiches.
Duck is not only home to great food, it’s also the location of some of the Outer Banks’ top community events. The Duck Jazz Festival is one North Carolina's top fall music celebrations. This year marks the 10th annual event and festival organizers are expecting to attract over 5,000 people. This day-long event is free to attend and features some of the best jazz music acts from across the country. On top of that, you’ll get to purchase food and refreshments from some of Duck’s finest eating establishments. Aside from the music you’ll find some great community events tied to the festival including an outdoor movie, jazz workshop, and the list goes on. We got the opportunity to speak to Denise Walsh, Director of Public Information, Marketing & Events for the Town of Duck, to talk about this great fall event.
RAL: Tell me a little bit about the event.
DW: The Duck Jazz Festival started in 2007, so we will celebrate the 10th anniversary in 2016.
RAL: How many people do you expect to attend and who are they demographically? Children? Families? Couples?
DW: We expect to see between 5,000 and 7,000 people in attendance. The main day of the festival draws more couples and adult groups. However, family friendly events and programs draw younger family groups for portions of the festival as well.
RAL: What makes this event unique?
DW: The Town of Duck is set between the waters of the sound and the sea, making any visit unique. This is a free, non-ticketed festival which brings talent from around the nation to a small, outdoor venue. The festival offers more interactive programs on one stage which helps to share jazz history and insights with attendees.
RAL: What can attendees expect for activities at the event?
DW: Friday, October 7th, begins with a “Movie on the Green”. This is an outdoor event that we hold in conjunction with our local partner Children @ Play. Attendees will get the opportunity to watch The Muppet Movie in a fun outdoor environment with refreshments for purchase.
On Saturday, October 8th, patrons can enjoy a “Concert on the Green” featuring jazz guitarist, Frank Vignola with Vinny Raniolo from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Duck businesses will feature live music throughout town, and festival musicians may join in an interactive jam at a popular local restaurant, the Blue Point.
Gates open at 10:00 am on Sunday, October 9th. Attendees are welcome to bring chairs, blankets, picnics and coolers for this day-long festival on the Green. Patrons can enjoy four main stage performers, in-between sets, and various performances on the amphitheater stage. Following main stage acts, meet the artists who will sign merchandise and talk with guests.
RAL: What will attendees find for dining options?
DW: Three Duck eateries will be selling food at Duck Town Park throughout the day.
RAL: What is the overall environment like?
DW: The environment is fun, lively and entertaining. It’s held at the beautiful Duck Town Park with musicians performing outside on a grassy green and in an amphitheater setting.
RAL: What can an attendee expect to find for local lodging?
DW: Lodging in Duck is primarily made up of vacation home rentals. Duck is also the home of the Sanderling Resort which offers luxurious accommodations. There are also a couple of B&B’s in town. Visitors will find hotels located in the adjacent communities of Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, and Nags Head.
RAL: What does this event mean to the community?
DW: The festival is free and open to the public. Support comes from the Town of Duck, presenting sponsor PNC, the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau, and the North Carolina Arts Council. We also receive support from local business sponsors.
RAL: Why should people come to your event?
DW: The abundance of large vacation beach homes makes it a great location for families and company retreats. The Duck Jazz Festival brings people back because of the talented variety of musicians and the beautiful location. The festival ends as the sun sets and attendees enjoy strolling along the nearly one-mile Duck Boardwalk that borders the Currituck Sound. Attendees will love the sounds of jazz drifting through the park and across the water.
For more information about the Duck Jazz Festival, please visit their website.