Spring and summer are the perfect seasons to explore the North Carolina Crystal Coast, with its stunning shorelines, vibrant towns, and a calendar brimming with exciting events. The Crystal Coast offers endless activities for locals and visitors, from live music and art festivals to marathons and boat shows.
With this guide, you’ll discover some of the most anticipated Crystal Coast events, focusing on towns like Emerald Isle, Morehead City, and Beaufort. Dive into all the Crystal Coast NC things to do, and make the most of your beach getaway with the best Emerald Isle vacation rentals.
Coastal Home & Garden Show
One of the first major Crystal Coast NC events of the season is the Coastal Home & Garden Show, held in Morehead City, NC. Scheduled for the first weekend of March at the Crystal Coast Civic Center, this event is the largest consumer show in the area. Whether you’re a full-time resident or a visitor, you’ll find plenty to inspire your home and garden dreams. The event features a variety of exhibitors showcasing outdoor living ideas, gardening and landscaping tips, sunroom designs, yard décor, and innovative solutions to garden pests.
North Carolina Maritime Museum Wooden Boat Show
A must-see is the annual North Carolina Maritime Museum Wooden Boat Show. As the longest ongoing wooden boat show in the Southeast, it offers a fascinating look at small wooden boats, historic vessels, and nautical crafts. Visitors can enjoy educational activities, boat models, and traditional skills demonstrations. Whether you’re a boating enthusiast or just looking for family-friendly activities, this is one of the best Beaufort, NC, events you won’t want to miss.
Arts by The Sea
If you’re an art lover, the Arts by The Sea festival in Beaufort, NC, is a must-attend event. This juried craft show features some of the finest artists and crafters from the Southeast. You’ll find a wide array of pottery, jewelry, paintings, stained glass, fiber art, carvings, photography, sculpture, and metalwork. The atmosphere of the festival is as vibrant as the artworks on display. The historic streets of Beaufort offer a beautiful backdrop, enriching the experience of exploring and purchasing art. Visitors have the unique opportunity to meet and engage with the artists, learning about their processes and what inspires their creations. The festival takes place in the historic streets of Beaufort and includes live local entertainment at the Harry C. Pugliese “Pug” Pavilion throughout the day.
Beach Music Festival
The annual Beach Music Festival is a highlight of Atlantic Beach events, held on the boardwalk at the Circle. This festival brings together well-known bands like Gary Lowder & Smokin’ Hot, The Band of Oz, Jim Quick & Coastline, The I-42 Band, and The Mighty Saints of Soul. Enjoy a day of toe-tapping rhythms and vibrant performances under the sun, making this music festival a perfect addition to your vacation. In addition to performances by top bands, the festival often includes fun activities and contests, making it an engaging day out for everyone. Local food vendors line the boardwalk, offering delicious dishes and refreshments to keep you energized as you revel in the musical festivities.
Emerald Isle Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K
For fitness fans, the Emerald Isle Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K is an annual event that showcases the natural beauty of the Crystal Coast. This USAT&F-certified and sanctioned race is a Boston Qualifier, attracting runners from all over. The marathon kicks off early in the morning, followed by the half marathon and 5K. It’s an exhilarating way to explore the scenic routes of Emerald Isle while challenging yourself in a competitive yet supportive atmosphere.
EmeraldFest Free Summer Concert Series
Music lovers will not want to miss the EmeraldFest Free Summer Concert Series in Emerald Isle. Held every Thursday evening throughout the summer at the Western Ocean Regional Access facility, this series offers free, live performances by the sea. Bring your blanket or lawn chairs and settle in for an evening of great music and relaxation. Kids can play nearby on the beach while adults unwind and socialize, making it an event that brings people of all ages together. Local food trucks often set up shop at the concerts, offering tasty treats and refreshments to enhance your evening under the stars.
Plan Your Visit
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Rock the Dock Concert Series
Another fantastic musical event is the Rock the Dock Concert Series. The Rock the Dock Concert Series transforms the Morehead City waterfront into a lively hub of musical entertainment. Each performance lures attendees with a mix of genres, including rock, pop, funk, and country, ensuring there’s something for everyone’s musical tastes. The concerts are free and open to the public, making it one of the most accessible Crystal Coast NC events for families and friends. Beyond the music, the series also offers a great opportunity to explore Morehead City’s waterfront area, with its array of shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament
The Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament, held every June, has a rich history that dates back to 1957. Over the years, it has grown into a grand celebration of sport fishing, drawing in both veteran anglers and enthusiastic spectators. The tournament takes place over seven days, where fishing teams vie for the chance to reel in the biggest blue marlin, along with other game fish like dolphin, wahoo, and tuna. With millions of dollars in prize money at stake, the competition is fierce, but the camaraderie and sportsmanship among the participants are equally notable. As one of the best Morehead City events, this prestigious event attracts top anglers from across the globe. Even if you’re not competing, the atmosphere is electric, and there are plenty of activities and events to enjoy while supporting the participants.
Atlantic Beach Rentals at Spectrum Properties
For those planning to attend Emerald Isle events, booking an Emerald Isle vacation rental with Spectrum Rental Properties ensures a relaxing and enjoyable stay. For a broader range of options, consider the rest of our Crystal Coast vacation rentals across various towns in the region. Whether you prefer the lively atmosphere near our Morehead City rentals or the charm of our Harkers Island rentals, you’ll find the perfect rental to match your needs. Our Atlantic Beach rentals provide a range of options to suit different needs and preferences as well. Staying in a Crystal Coast vacation rental provides the flexibility and comfort that make your vacation experience truly memorable. Book your stay with Spectrum today and be one step closer to experiencing all these incredible events for yourself!
