The Town of Manteo invites residents and visitors to celebrate the magic of the season during its annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Christmas Parade on Friday, December 5, and Saturday, December 6, 2025. What began more than 50 years ago through the efforts of the Roanoke Island Women’s Club has grown into a beloved holiday tradition that brings the community together in the heart of Downtown Manteo.

Christmas Tree Lighting – Friday, December 5
The festivities begin at Magnolia Pavilion from 4:00–6:00 PM with free children’s activities and the Gingerbread House Competition, presented in partnership with Dare County Cooperative Extension. Guests can browse the gingerbread house displays, enjoy hot cocoa, Brunswick stew, and sweet treats from local organizations, and take part in hands-on fun.
 

Beginning at 5:00 PM, the Lighthouse Brass Band will fill the waterfront with festive music as the community gathers for the evening program.
At 6:00 PM, the Tree Lighting program takes the stage in front of Dare Arts at 300 Queen Elizabeth Avenue, featuring performances from local dance groups and school choruses. Santa and Mrs. Claus will join the celebration and help illuminate the Town’s Christmas Tree—a moment that has become a highlight of the holiday season in Manteo.
 

Afterward, the celebration continues with photos with Santa at the Waterfront Trellis, a special Holiday Market, a free children’s craft at Dare Arts, and caroling by The Tillett Sisters in the Dare Arts courtyard.
 

Christmas Parade – Saturday, December 6
The annual Christmas Parade steps off at 10:30 AM, marching through Downtown Manteo with floats, performers, civic groups, and community organizations. Local emcees will announce entries from the stage in front of Dare Arts as the parade makes its way from Manteo High School to the College of The Albemarle – Dare Campus. Spectators are encouraged to remain safely outside the parade route.

Schedule of Events
Friday, December 5
4:00–6:00 PM – Kids’ activities & Gingerbread House Competition (Magnolia Pavilion)
5:00 PM – Lighthouse Brass Band performance
6:00 PM – Tree Lighting program & performances (Dare Arts stage)
Afterward – Photos with Santa, Holiday Market, crafts & caroling
Saturday, December 6
10:30 AM – Christmas Parade (Manteo High School to COA – Dare Campus)
 

Parking & Shuttle Information
To ensure a safe and enjoyable weekend, temporary road closures and traffic adjustments will be in effect during event hours. Free parking will be available at:
-College of The Albemarle – Dare Campus (205 US-64)
-Manteo Elementary School (701 US-64)
Golf cart shuttles will run continuously, providing convenient transportation to and from the event area.

A special thank-you to the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau for being a generous sponsor of these holiday celebrations!