The holiday season unfolds on the Crystal Coast with a delightful mix of Thanksgiving feasts, Christmas cheer, and New Year’s festivities! Coastal North Carolina offers a blend of community warmth and seasonal magic, with activities for all ages.
From Thanksgiving gatherings to Christmas parades and lively New Year’s Eve events, the Crystal Coast is the perfect spot to celebrate. Here’s a guide to making the most of the season in this scenic coastal community.
Fall Festival in Cape Carteret
Celebrate autumn at Cape Carteret’s annual Fall Festival! This beloved event features live music, local food trucks, arts and crafts, and a lively atmosphere that captures the spirit of fall. It’s a wonderful opportunity to experience community fellowship with festive activities, unique crafts, and seasonal delights. Be part of this memorable tradition that brings together locals and visitors alike.
Learn more about the Fall Festival here.
Carolina Home and Garden Fall Festival
This year, the Carolina Home and Garden Fall Festival is expanding to two days due to its popularity! Expect a weekend of games, prizes, inflatables, face painting, a petting zoo, and fall-themed treats. Though admission is free, activities, food, and drinks are available for purchase. Due to large crowds, early arrival and carpooling are recommended for this lively family-friendly event.
Want to learn more? Find more information here!
Mistletoe Magic Holiday Gift Show
Get into the holiday spirit at the Mistletoe Magic Holiday Gift Show, where the Crystal Coast Civic Center transforms into a shopping wonderland. Find unique gifts, from holiday crafts and jewelry to children’s clothing and wood art. With homemade breakfast, lunch, and desserts at the concession stand, this event is perfect for a festive day of browsing and finding the ideal presents for everyone on your list.
Find out more about the Mistletoe Magic Holiday Gift Show here!
Christmas Parades Across the Coast
Embrace the joy of the season with Christmas parades throughout the Crystal Coast! The Morehead City Christmas Parade brings Arendell Street alive with floats, marching bands, and a visit from Santa. Atlantic Beach’s “Light Up the Night” parade offers a magical evening complete with cookies, hot cocoa, and photos with Santa. Emerald Isle and Newport also host parades featuring festive floats and community cheer. Perfect for families, these parades are a great way to create holiday memories.
Click here to find out more information about the Morehead City Parade, the Atlantic Beach Parade, the Emerald Isle Parade, and the Newport Parade.
Friends of the Maritime Museum Holiday Flotilla
Enjoy the dazzling spectacle of the Holiday Flotilla, where boats, yachts, kayaks, and commercial vessels are decorated in festive lights. The flotilla begins in Morehead City, continues to Beaufort, and sails down Taylor’s Creek, with boats competing for prizes like hotel stays and gift certificates. Afterward, participants can dock at Beaufort Town Docks to dine locally and enjoy the evening. This event is a beautiful blend of maritime tradition and holiday spirit.
Find more information here.
Holiday Arts and Crafts Fairs
Browse locally crafted holiday gifts at two unique Holiday Arts and Crafts Fairs. The Emerald Isle Fair features a collection of handmade items, perfect for holiday shopping. Similarly, the Islander Hotel’s Holiday Arts & Crafts Fair offers a diverse selection of artisan booths, making it easy to find special holiday presents while supporting local creators. Discover one-of-a-kind gifts and immerse yourself in the holiday spirit at these festive fairs.
Check out this link for more information about The Emerald Isle Crafts Fair or the Arts and Craft Fair at the Islander Hotel.
Brunch with Santa at 34 Degrees North Restaurant
For a family-friendly holiday brunch, join 34 Degrees North Restaurant for a special event featuring Santa Claus. The children’s menu includes holiday favorites like pancakes, eggs, and waffles. Don’t forget your camera for photos with Santa! Complimentary valet parking is available, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the festive atmosphere and delicious food.
Find more information for Brunch with Santa here!
The Gingerbread Festival
Step into a world of holiday magic at the Gingerbread Festival, where the aroma of gingerbread and holiday decorations fill the air. See beautifully crafted gingerbread creations, holiday-themed crab pot Christmas trees, and participate in kids’ crafts and games. Enjoy treats from the Gingerbread Café and cast your vote for your favorite gingerbread display. This festival is a perfect holiday experience for all ages.
Find more information about the festivities here!
Morehead City New Year’s Eve Celebration
Ring in the New Year at Morehead City’s lively New Year’s Eve Celebration! The festivities start with family-friendly activities, games, and live music at Big Rock Landing. The event features a unique crab pot drop as well as a fireworks display over Sugarloaf Island. Gather along the waterfront to celebrate the arrival of 2025 in a fun and festive atmosphere.
For more information on the New Year’s Eve Celebration click here!
As the holiday season approaches, the Crystal Coast offers an abundance of festive events and activities to make this time of year truly special. From charming fall festivals and dazzling gift shows to lively Christmas parades and the enchanting Gingerbread Festival, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate with family and friends. Don’t miss the chance to experience the joy and warmth of our local traditions, whether you’re enjoying a holiday brunch with Santa or welcoming the New Year with a waterfront celebration.
If the Crystal Coast feels like home, let Al Williams Properties help you find the perfect place to enjoy it year-round. Embrace the spirit of the season, make lasting memories, and consider making this vibrant community part of your everyday life. Happy holidays, and we hope to see you soon on the Crystal Coast!
Photography Credit: Downtown Morehead City