We invite you to the NC Seafood Festival, a beloved tradition held annually on the Morehead City waterfront since 1987. This free event, taking place on the first full weekend in October, promises a delightful experience filled with food, entertainment, kids’ activities, vendors, and artisans. As we celebrate our 38th annual event on October 4th-6th, 2024, we invite you to join us in honoring North Carolina’s rich seafood industry while enjoying a fun-filled weekend with an estimated 200,000 visitors.
Located at 412 Evans St, Morehead City, NC 28557, the NC Seafood Festival is the largest three-day festival in North Carolina, recognized as a top event by Visit NC and the International Festivals & Events Association. When looking for places to stay in Atlantic Beach when attending this event, consider staying with Spectrum Properties!
About the Festival
The NC Seafood Festival aims to educate the public, promote the state’s seafood industry, and pay tribute to the commercial fishing fleet that supplies our markets and restaurants. Experience a diverse range of activities, including children’s games, rides, cooking demonstrations, and live music performances across two musical stages. With over 200 artisan and commercial vendors, seafood lovers can savor fresh North Carolina seafood delicacies and other locally produced food and beverage items. Join us in celebrating the bounty of the sea and supporting our vibrant coastal community.
Things to Do
Prepare to be amazed by the array of things to do in Morehead City, NC, at the Seafood Festival! From the iconic Flounder Fling, where Miss North Carolina ceremoniously flings the first flounder, to live music performance, amusement rides for all ages, and of course delicious seafood, there is something for everyone. Don’t miss Arm Band Friday, offering unlimited access to rides and contributing to local schools.
Explore unique handmade goods from talented artisans, including photography, painting, pottery, and more. As night falls on Saturday, enjoy a spectacular fireworks show over Sugar Loaf Island, culminating in a magical evening of seafood, entertainment, and festivities. Indulge in a variety of seafood creations from booths sponsored by local establishments, showcasing the best flavors North Carolina has to offer.
Music & Entertainment
Immerse yourself in the vibrant sounds of the NC Seafood Festival with a lineup of talented musicians and entertainers. The festival schedule includes performances by artists such as Erik Hawks, Crawford & Power, Jarrod Niemann, Spare Change, Daze, Cat 5, Jamie Wright Band, Cassette Rewind, I-42, and Band of Oz. Dance the weekend away to a diverse mix of music genres, culminating in a dazzling fireworks display on Saturday night. Explore the charm of coastal North Carolina and immerse yourself in the festivities of the NC Seafood Festival. Join us for a weekend of culinary delights, entertainment, and community spirit as we celebrate the heritage and flavors of our coastal region.
Festival Events
Twin Bridges Race
For runners of all levels, the Twin Bridges Race is the perfect opportunity to test your endurance and experience the views over historic downtown Morehead City and the Atlantic Beach Causeway. Starting at the NOAA Laboratory in Beaufort, this certified 8K runner’s course takes you over the Morehead City and Atlantic Beach Bridges, offering captivating views of the Crystal Coast. Join us for a mini marathon filled with camaraderie and scenic routes.
Port of Pours
The North Carolina Seafood Festival is excited to announce the return of its ticketed event, Port of Pours. Celebrate coastal craft breweries within the broader festival footprint, offering both VIP and general admission experiences. Sip on unlimited craft brews while listening to live music. It’s a perfect opportunity to relax and unwind in the company of other beer enthusiasts.
Blessing of the Fleet
Join us for the emotional Blessing of the Fleet, one of the festival’s chief events that recognizes the many who have given their lives in their occupation and thanks those who continue to work in Atlantic Beach fishing today. This Seafood Festival tradition takes place on Sunday morning, offering festival-goers a chance to pay tribute to the commercial fishing fleet that supplies North Carolina’s seafood industry.
Carolina Cooker Stage
Prepare to be sizzling with excitement at the Carolina Cooker Stage, filled with talented faculty chefs and students from Carteret Community College. Sample tasty dishes showcasing the best of local seafood and tasty treats. Whether you’re a seafood lover or a dedicated foodie, the Carolina Cooker Stage is a stop you can’t miss. Visit Cooker State on Friday noon to 5:30pm, Saturday 11:00am-6:00pm, and Sunday, noon to 3:00pm. Enjoy dishes like fish tacos, clam chowder, pumpkin spice latte cake and much more!
Plan Your Visit
Ready to experience the NC Seafood Festival for yourself? Browse our full inventory of Atlantic Beach vacation rentals and beyond to find the perfect accommodations for your stay!
Directions
Directions to Morehead City from Atlantic Beach/Emerald Isle
When it comes to getting to the festival, if you are traveling from Atlantic Beach/Emerald Isle, you can follow the route by heading east on Emerald Dr toward 23rd St, continuing onto North Carolina Hwy 58 S/Salter Path Rd, turning left onto Atlantic Beach Causeway, and then onto Atlantic Beach Bridge, before turning right onto Arendell St and left onto N 18th St.
Directions to Morehead City from Beaufort & Harkers Island
For visitors from Beaufort & Harkers Island, the route includes heading northwest on Ann St toward Turner St, turning right at the 1st cross street onto Turner St, then left onto US-70, and finally right onto N 17th St.
Festival Parking Information
Free parking is available at the NC State Port, 113 Arendell Street, Morehead City, with a free shuttle service on Saturday & Sunday ONLY to and from the Festival grounds. The shuttle operates on Saturday from 9 AM to midnight and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Other parking lots around the footwall area are managed by community groups, with most lots charging a daily fee for parking. Please avoid parking on side streets or alleys surrounding the festival, as vehicles parked illegally will be towed at the owner’s expense.
Atlantic Beach Rentals with Spectrum Properties
At Spectrum Properties, we take pride in offering exceptional Atlantic Beach rentals, ensuring an unforgettable coastal experience for our guests. Whether you’re a couple seeking a romantic retreat or a family looking for a fun-filled vacation, our meticulously maintained properties cater to a variety of guests. With a diverse selection of oceanfront Atlantic Beach rentals, luxury condos, and spacious vacation homes, we have the perfect accommodation for everyone. Our rentals in Atlantic Beach offer a range of amenities, including fully equipped kitchens, comfortable living areas, and access to on-site pools and fitness centers. With our commitment to exceptional customer service and a prime location near the beach, Spectrum Properties is the premier choice for a seamless and memorable vacation in Atlantic Beach. Book with us today and immerse yourself in a coastal retreat like no other.
