Monday, October 27, 2008

2008 Holiday Events in the Outer Banks

With fall in full swing, and October almost complete, this can mean only one thing…it’s time to get ready for the holidays. Soon people will be bustling, putting up decorations and purchasing gifts for friends and family. It is unbelievable the amount of Halloween decorations that can be seen adorning local homes and area businesses. Undoubtedly, the day after Halloween you can be assured that you will be seeing the first of the Thanksgiving and Christmas decorations going on display.

The Outer Banks is a very special place during the holiday season. The towns are alive with spirit and festivities. Each town offers its own unique events to celebrate the holidays. From tree lighting ceremonies to theater groups performing Christmas classics, you won’t be found wanting for more activity.

Below is a smattering of the local events that should not be missed if you happen to be in the Outer Banks area during the holiday season.

November 13th – December 31st
The Outer Banks Music Showcase Christmas Show - This talented group will be performing Christmas classics that are fun for the whole family. Enjoy an all-star cast from the local theater group, breathtaking scenery and side-splitting comedy as you stroll through a “Winter Wonderland” this season. For more information or tickets please call (252) 261-7505 or visit www.outerbanksmusicshowcase.com .

November 29th and December 13th
Pet Pictures with Santa - Bring your pets to Paparazzi from 12-3 to have your pet’s picture taken with Santa. A $5 fee will be taken to benefit the Outer Banks SPCA. Participants will receive one 4x6 print, and photo file will be emailed to you at no additional cost. Please call (252) 473-2094 for more information.

December 27th
An Elizabethan Christmas
Visit the Roanoke Island Festival Park to celebrate the 3rd day of Christmas. Visitors will get a taste of 16th century holiday traditions from 12-5. People can enjoy making decorations, singing songs and learning dances that were commonly performed during this time period. For more information please call (252) 475-1500.

More events and full information can be found on the Outer Banks calendar page at www.outerbanks.org/events/calendar_of_events/december.asp. We hope to see you in the Outer Banks this holiday season!

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Friday, October 17, 2008

Outer Banks Fall Golf Vacations

Fall is coming, which means golf courses are packing up and closing for the season. There are only a few spots where golf can be played year-round, and the Outer Banks is one of the best in the country. The cooler temperatures and sea breezes make this area a haven for golfers looking for their fix in the fall and winter.

The Outer Banks features six championship courses, each with its own personality and charm. Scottish-styled design and manicured bent grass will make you want to come back year after year. When planning your Outer Banks golf vacation, it is important to arrange tee times in advance. This time of year can be very busy, and it may be difficult to get your desired tee time at the last minute. Listed below are the names and numbers of some of the most popular courses in the area. Call at least a week in advance to book your tee time.

1. The Currituck Club
(252) 453-9400

2. The Carolina Club
(252) 453-3588

3. The Pointe Golf Club
(252) 491-8388

4. Sea Scape Golf Links
(252) 261-2158

5. Nags Head Golf Links
(252) 441-8073

6. Kilmarlic Golf Club
(252)491-4220

For more information on golf packages and accommodations, please speak with an Outer Banks vacation specialist at 1-866-760-3526

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Monday, October 13, 2008

Dining Outer Banks Style

No trip to the Outer Banks would be complete without a sampling of the local seafood. The Outer Banks is known for fresh seafood markets and fine eating establishments. Some of these businesses have been around for more than 50 years, while others are the proverbial new kids on the block. Whichever you choose, you will not be a disappointed. Like many travel destinations, dining choices can be subjective and the locals have their favorites in the Outer Banks. If this is your first time visiting, scope out some places that look good and speak with some locals to get the best advice for dining. One option is Owens’ Restaurant. Owens’ Restaurant, which has been run by the founding family for over 50 years, is a staple of Outer Banks dining. When you go to Owens’, you are sure to have great food and good fun.

While you are in the area, you may not want to go out all the time. You have rented a vacation home and want to utilize the kitchen. This is not a problem. Check out the local fish markets to get fresh seafood you can prepare in the comfort of your rental. To be the hit of your vacation, purchase fresh crab and prepare the following crab dip recipe:

Crab Dip

8 ounces of cream cheese, softened
8 ounces of sour cream
16 ounces crabmeat
¼ cup of mayonnaise
¼ cup milk
¼ cup chopped onions
1 tablespoon horseradish
½ teaspoon of salt

Preheat oven to 375ºF. Combine all ingredients until well blended. Spoon into an oven safe dish. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese or Old Bay Seasoning. Bake for approximately 20 minutes. Serve warm with bread or crackers.

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