Spring has Sprung at Festival Park!
Opening week, spring events, and more!
As winter fades and spring arrives on the Outer Banks, Roanoke Island Festival Park is preparing to welcome visitors back for another exciting season. The park officially reopens for the 2026 season on March 17, bringing back its interactive exhibits, educational programs, and waterfront experiences that explore the history of England’s first attempted colony in America. The park is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with admissions available until 4:30 p.m.
Spring at Festival Park is always a lively time, with special programs, concerts, and family-friendly events scheduled throughout the season. The season begins with the popular Bluegrass Island Nights concert series in the indoor theater. This spring’s lineup includes performances by Scythian on March 15–16, Appalachian Road Show on March 28, and The Brothers Comatose on April 25. These concerts bring nationally recognized bluegrass musicians to the Outer Banks for intimate performances that celebrate the region’s strong musical traditions.
Families can also look forward to the return of KidsFest on May 8, a beloved community event filled with hands-on activities, entertainment, and educational experiences designed for young learners. Music fans will have even more to enjoy when Michael Cleveland and his band Flamekeeper take the stage on May 9.
In celebration of America 250, we are hosting a series of talks at Nouvines wine bar in Downtown Manteo. Catch the first one on Wednesday, March 25. Each event will start at 6pm, and follow with open discussion and a Q&A.
In addition to these events, visitors returning this spring can explore the park’s exhibits, enjoy views of the waterfront, and experience the stories of early English exploration brought to life through interactive programs and living history demonstrations. Whether you’re attending a concert, bringing the family for a festival, or simply exploring the park’s historic attractions, spring is the perfect time to rediscover all that Roanoke Island Festival Park has to offer.
The 2026 season begins March 17, and everyone is invited to join us as we kick off another year of history, music, and community on the Outer Banks. Check out our Spring Event schedule below!
March
- March 15, 2026 — Scythian – Bluegrass Island Nights
- March 17 - June 21, 2026 — Rock the Eye: Boatbuilding Traditions Around the Albemarle Sound traveling exhibit
- March 25, 2026 — History Happy Hour
- March 28, 2026 — Appalachian Road Show – Bluegrass Island Nights
April
- April 8, 2026 — History Happy Hour
- April 18, 2026 — Dare A250 Faire: Star Spangled Spectacular
- April 22, 2026 — History Happy Hour
- April 25, 2026 — The Brothers Comatose – Bluegrass Island Nights
May
- May 6, 2026 — History Happy Hour
- May 8, 2026 — KidsFest
- May 9, 2026 — Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper
- May 30, 2026 — OBX PrideFest
See the full list of events HERE!