Duck's Annual Fourth of July Parade
July 3rd. Starts at 9 a.m.  Afterwards there is  music by Ruth Wyland and Friends at the Duck Town Park. For registration information please contact the Town at 252-255-1234. Website: www.TownofDuck.com 

Roanoke Island Festival Park in Manteo
July 4th. 8 p.m. A pre-fireworks show featuring music and dance. Outdoor Pavillion in the Park. 252-475-1500. Website: www.RoanokeIsland.com

Kill Devil Hills Fireworks Display
July 4th at dusk.  Located at the Avalon Pier on Milepost 6 on the Beach Road. Website: www.kdhnc.com

Nags Head Fireworks Display
9:25 p.m. Nags Head Fishing Pier at Milepost 11.5 on the Beach Road. Presented by the Town of Nags Head. Website: www.TownofNagsHead.com

Manteo
July 4th is a full day of fun featuring children's games, contests and a flea market. That night, enjoy the NC School of the Arts Pops Concert at Roanoke Island Festival Park.  Enjoy the fireworks displacy over the Roanoke Sound. Website:www.manteo.govoffice.com

Corolla
July 4th. Saturday from 5 p.m. until ? Free Admission. The fireworks display starts at dusk but come early to enjoy food and music. Please bring a blanket or chairs.   Website: www.VisitCurrituck.com. Please note that the boat ramp at Currituck Heritage Park will be closed on Saturday, July 4. 


        

        

More Information HERE

        

Several readers sent in more suggestions for the Outer Banks Rules blog that was posted the other day.   They were good ones, so here is Chapter Two.     

• When you are in the grocery store, do not wear sunglasses unless you have (a) pink eye (b) a black eye (c) are a fugitive
• Hang up your cell phone while you are (a) at lunch in a restaurant (b) in your car unless you are the passenger (c) at dinner anywhere
• Sit on the deck in the early morning and watch the sun come up
• When you are on a bike, please be careful. Look around you. Please stay within the Bike Path--do not go onto the Beach Road proper. 
• Go to the NC Aquarium and take the kids.
• Use recyclable bags when you go to the store
• Fill up your holes that you made at the beach. Someone might break an ankle
• The sun is brighter and hotter than you think ... wear sunscreen
• Drink lots of water or Gator Ade while you are out in the heat
• Tip your wait person well
• Slow down...there is  no fire. One good tip---unless you are at a stoplight on the by-pass (the big road); don't even try to make a left turn.  Take a right, then a left and then a right again or stay on the Beach Road. Trust me on this during the summer months.
• Turn down the music at night--your next door neighbors might go to bed earlier than you
• Go get the Fish Tacos at Mama Kwan's in KDH
• Check out the Manteo Waterfront.
• Make sure you know the physical address of the home you are renting
• Sit on the deck iin the evening and watch the sunset. 

Thank you again for choosing to come to the Outer Banks.
Until Next Time,
JM 

        

                
                                                                                                                                   


Looking for something really different to do while here? Are you a chef at heart?

Outer Banks Epicurean is offering cooking classes every Thursday and Friday right here on the Outer Banks.

SUMMER 2009

COOKING CLASSES EVERY THURSDAY AND FRIDAY

The Lesson: Cookin' Outer Banks Style
Take a homegrown cookin’ class featuring tips, techniques and recipes focused on foods grown, caught, harvested or crafted by hand on the Outer Banks of North Carolina.

Learn how to prepare local watermen's freshest catches!

Classes emphasize the Slow Food philosophy and changing weekly recipes use the freshest available seasonal, local, seafood and produce.

The best part? You get to taste everything!
Thursdays, 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm | Fridays, 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Classes held at Tommy’s Bagels to Beef
The Market Place Shopping Center, Southern Shores
Class size limited. Reservations required.

Visit www.OuterBanksEpicurean.com for class topics, other classes and food tours!

Call 252.305.0952 for reservations or more info.

$49 per person
$59 with wine sampling

If you attend a class please let me know how it was. 
Thanks,
Your OBX Blogger
JM

        

Interior Secretary Ken Salazar announced June 2 that the National Park Service (NPS) will offer three fee-free weekends this summer to encourage Americans seeking affordable vacations to visit these national treasures.

"During these tough economic times, our national parks provide opportunities for affordable vacations for families," Secretary Salazar said. "I encourage everyone to visit one of our nation's crown jewels this summer and especially to take advantage of the three free-admission weekends." The 147 NPS sites across the country that charge fees for entry will waive these entrance fees during the weekends of June 20-21, July 18-19, and August 15-16, 2009. This would include the Wright Memorial at Milepost 7!

Here are some places that are always free:

Our Beaches! While I find it hard to believe that people PAY to get on the beaches in other parts of the country. I just have never encountered that but my co-workers assure me it is true. Thank goodness, that is not the case here. Our beaches are free, clean and welcoming.

Jockey's Ridge in Nags Head. This is a sand dune with over 460 acres--and 90 feet tall. Kite flying, hang gliding, climbing up to see the view and then letting the kids roll back down...they will love it. More information

Visit our lighthouses. The Bodie Island Lighthouse, Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse and the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse are free. Take the FREE ferry to Ocracoke Island. It is about a 40 minute trip. The kids can feed the seagulls and you can relax and enjoy the sights.

Upcoming Events this week, free and otherwise:

June 23 - 26
Summer Children’s Performance Series Tarradiddle Players present “The Commedia Aladdin”Film Theatre at Roanoke Island Festival Park. 10:30 a.m. Hop on a magic carpet with Aladdin as he summons the powerful Genie of the Lamp and changes his fortunes forever. (252) 475-1500 or roanokeisland.com

June 23 - August 13
Charlotte Web’s Barnyard Brunch Waterside Theatre.
Stay after Tuesday’s performance of Charlotte’s Web for this barnyard bonanza! Meet the cast, enjoy fiddle music, learn a barnyard dance, watch Wilbur’s video web-log, play madcap barnyard games and enjoy a simple brunch at the Theatre. Brunch tickets are $8 Youth (11 & under) and $16 Adults. Price includes meal and keepsake photo. (252) 473-2127 or thelostcolony.org

June 24
Wild Wednesdays
Join nature photographer, Jeff Lewis, at The Elizabethan Gardens, as he shows stunning photos of the flora and fauna found in The Gardens. Located in our air-conditioned theater. (252) 473-3234 or elizabethangardens.org

June 24
Showcase Magic & Comedy Show Kitty Hawk. 7:30 pm at Outer Banks Music Showcase, Milepost 4.5, Kitty Hawk.
Featuring World-renowned Illusionists Clive Allen & Tracy. View clips at obxtrememagic.com. Tickets $19.95 Adults, $18.95 Seniors, $7 Children. (252) 261-7505. Event URL: outerbanksmusicshowcase.com

June 24 - 25
8th Annual “Under the Oaks” Art Festival 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. / 5 p.m.
Enjoy this annual outdoor art show on the grounds of Currituck Heritage Park with over 100 quality artists showcasing a wide variety of media, musical entertainment, food concessions, and children's activities. Admission is free - $5 parking donation requested. For more information call 252-453-9040.

June 25
Discovery Thursdays
Discovery Thursdays at The Elizabethan Gardens, will include up to five interactive activities that families will enjoy together. These activities will focus on a specific aspect of The Gardens. Participants will gain further understanding and appreciation of The Gardens and Elizabethan Times which they can apply as they later tour The Elizabethan Gardens. Located in our air-conditioned theater. (252) 473-3234 or elizabethangardens.org

June 25
Tea with the Queen
Waterside Theatre.
Have an audience with Queen Elizabeth I and her royal court. The Queen’s tea also includes a backstage tour of Waterside Theatre and a complimentary souvenir program. Advance reservations required. Tickets are $22 for Adults, $11 for Youth (7-18 years). (252) 473-2127 or thelostcolony.org

June 25
Simon’s Pirate Adventure 3 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Come with your bawdy crew to be dressed like a pirate, talk like a pirate and act like a pirate. Enjoy Simon Fernando’s famous Carolina pirate friends as they reenact their dramatic high seas adventures. Simon’s Pirate Adventure includes a backstage tour of Waterside Theatre, a keepsake photo of you with a pirate and delicious pirate’s feast. 24-hour advance reservations required. Tickets are $22 for Adults, $11 for Youth (7-18 years). (252) 473-2127 or thelostcolony.org

June 25
Thirsty Thursdays
Free fountain soft drink with the purchase of a 3-game laser tag admission. For more information about Gearworks Laser Tag & Fun Center visit obxgearworks.com.

June 25 - 26
Beach ‘n Blues Festival Pirate’s Cove. 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Blue skies, blue water and the best blues music. Two evenings of great entertainment to share with friends and family while here at the beach. (252) 384-3494

Outer Banks Video

        

• No socks with sandals. No exceptions. This is just wrong, people
  
• Do not pass a car on the RIGHT if you are on the beach road. Seriously. This is not only rude, it is dangerous. I cannot stress this one enough.
  
• If you are not sure where you are going (guys, this one is for you) then ASK someone. We are happy to give you directions
  
• STOP and let pedestrians cross the beach road. There are many places that are designated as crosswalks but you will see folks waiting sometimes at a non designated spot. Do the nice thing.
  
• Do go to John's Drive In on the Beach Road. Get a milkshake and a dolphin boat. You will thank me for this
  
• Please shop at the locally owned businesses ... you can tell which ONEs they are.
  
• Please do not throw cigarrette butts out the window or dump the car ashtray in the driveway or in the sand.
  
• If you have small kids, ask around for kid friendly restaurants. Most are, but some are truly not.
  
• If your little one is screaming, crying or running around in the restaurant, please take him/her outside.
  
• Dogs are welcome here. We love them, that is why so many vacation homes allow pets. Please clean up after your dog. Enough said.
  
• I really do not care to read the suggestive slogan on your t-shirt and I am sure many other moms and dads and grandparents feel the same way. Save those for when you are IN the house, please.
  
• Go fly a kite. Seriously, go to Jockey's Ridge in Nags Head and fly a kite.
  
• Go see the Lost Colony Outdoor Drama. You will enjoy it.
  
• Take lots of photos. Take them in high resolution. Enter our Photo Contest and perhaps you will win a free week at the beach!
  
• Leave the beach the way you found it.
  
• Want to visit a real old fashioned movie theater that still shows movies? Go over to Manteo and watch a show at the Pioneer Theater.
  
• Take deep breaths, smell the ocean air and gaze at the water for long periods of time. You will never get this moment back so savor it.
  
• Don't, do not, no way ... forget about drinking and driving. Please don't do it.
  
  Remember that the locals appreciate that you are spending your time and your money here. We want you to come back.

Stay safe. And thanks!

Until Next Time,
Your OBX Blogger
 
JM
                    
                                        
another great photo by Kirsten Lewis of www.innatephoto.com

        

        
                         


We all know the Outer Banks is a magical place ... whether you live here or are visting.  The OBX offers peace, natural beauty, friendly people and things to do... or not.  

If you are looking for some summer entertainment we have a new venue in town, a Magic Show.  More information is available at www.OBXtremeMagic.com 

Here is a blurb from the website telling you what the shows are all about:

"Experience the Outer Banks most incredible live show, OBXtreme Magic.  Witness incredible illusions, mind-bending magic and comedy audience participation the entire family will love live on stage!  OBXtreme Magic features some of the most incredible magic and illusions performed by world renowned illusionists Clive Allen & Tracy!  See people appear, vanish and float in the air right in front of your eyes!  Don't miss the most amazing family experience in The Outer Banks!"

For a preview ...check out the LINK to a video clip on You Tube.

A partial schedule of shows ...please go to the website for additional showings and more details.  Tickets are available online.  Looks like there is a show for all ages and one geared towards adults.  They also offer a "Magic Camp" where you can learn some of the illusions and tricks; that is only $15.00 per person and reservations are encouraged. Call 252-453-9040, Ext 3 for some more information on this. I would think the older kids would get a kick out of this since they could impress their friends when they get back home.  

JUNE

6/24 Wednesday
Showcase Magic & Comedy Show, Kitty Hawk
7:30 pm at Outer Banks Music Showcase, Milepost 4.5, Kitty Hawk. Featuring World-renowned Illusionists Clive Allen & Tracy. View clips at www.obxtrememagic.com Tickets $19.95 Adults, $18.95 Seniors, $7 Children. (252)261-7505. Event URL: http://www.outerbanksmusicshowcase.com

JULY

7/1 Wednesday
OBXtreme Magic at the Hilton Garden Inn, Kitty Hawk
Choose from two shows at 4 & 7 pm Starring World-Renowned Illusionists Clive Allen & Tracy. Incredible Illusions, Mind-Bending Magic and Comedy Audience Participation Live on Stage! Hilton Garden Inn, Milepost 1 on the Beach Road. (252)489-9219. Event URL: http://www.obxtrememagic.com , Tickets $19.95 Adults, $17.95 Seniors, $7 Children.

7/1 Wednesday
Mad Jack Adult Comedy and Magic, Kitty Hawk
Hilarious comedy, amazing magic and bizarre side-show stunts you will never forget all performed live on stage at the Hilton Garden Inn! This show is a riot, but contains adult language and subject matter. 9:30 pm. (252)489-9219. Event URL: http://www.obxtrememagic.com, Tickets $19.95

7/2 Thursday
OBXtreme Magic at the Hilton Garden Inn, Kitty Hawk
Choose from two shows at 4 & 7 pm Starring World-Renowned Illusionists Clive Allen & Tracy. Incredible Illusions, Mind-Bending Magic and Comedy Audience Participation Live on Stage! Hilton Garden Inn, Milepost 1 on the Beach Road. (252)489-9219. Event URL: http:// www.obxtrememagic.com, Tickets $19.95 Adults, $17.95 Seniors, $7 Children.

7/3 Friday
Showcase Magic & Comedy Show, Kitty Hawk
7:30 pm at Outer Banks Music Showcase, Milepost 4.5, Kitty Hawk. Featuring World-renowned Illusionists Clive Allen & Tracy. View clips at www.obxtrememagic.com Tickets $19.95 Adults, $18.95 Seniors, $7 Children. (252)261-7505. Event URL: http://www.outerbanksmusicshowcase.com

7/7 Tuesday
Children's Knight Magic Camps, Whalehead Club, Corolla, $15.00
Every Tuesday morning at 9am-explore the history of magic & learn a few tricks from Clive Allen, world traveled magician. Meet at the picnic shelter. Appropriate for children 5 and above. For information call 252-453-9040. Event URL: http://www.whaleheadclub.org

7/8 Wednesday
OBXtreme Magic at the Hilton Garden Inn, Kitty Hawk
Choose from two shows at 4 & 7 pm Starring World-Renowned Illusionists Clive Allen & Tracy. Incredible Illusions, Mind-Bending Magic and Comedy Audience Participation Live on Stage! Hilton Garden Inn, Milepost 1 on the Beach Road. (252)489-9219. Event URL: http;//www.obxtrememagic.com, Tickets $19.95 Adults, $17.95 Seniors, $7 Children.

7/8 Wednesday

Mad Jack Adult Comedy and Magic, Kitty Hawk
Hilarious comedy, amazing magic and bizarre side-show stunts you will never forget all performed live on stage at the Hilton Garden Inn! This show is a riot, but contains adult language and subject matter. 9:30 pm. (252)489-9219. Event URL: http://www.obxtrememagic.com, Tickets $19.95

There are more shows right through August and September (which is one of the best times to be here!).  The website says more dates will be added year 'round soon. 

This sounds interesting ... I will have to check both shows out.   I wonder if they sell wands that make husbands sweep the kitchen floor or bring you breakfast in bed?  Hmmm...if so, I will certainly let you know.  

Until Next Time
Your OBX Bloggers
JM

        

                                      



                                                               Father's Day is June 21. Don't forget! 

Sometimes the best gifts don't cost anything or cost very little except your time.   If you are having a hard time thinking of something for your dad this year, consider these suggestions:

 

• Write him a letter telling him why, if he was not already your father, you would choose him to be. 
• Take  him out for coffee and dessert. 
• Wash his car or truck
• Send him a "beer of the month" or "coffee of the month" membership. Some of these are available for three month periods. 
• Put a small classifed ad in the local newspaper so he can read it.
• Send him an e-card that will make him laugh
• Make an award for him that denotes something special he did for you

If you will be here on the OBX with your dad on his special day why not have a crab pickin' party? Or  stock up on cold drinks, pack some sandwiches and kick back on the beach or at the pool. Take lots of photos and then make an album for your dad next year.

A really great present would be a week at the beach and we hope many of you will be here sometime this summer.

If you are here now or will be sometime in June, here are some events going on:

June 19
Annual Evening Under The Stars with the North Carolina Symphony
Outdoor Pavilion, Roanoke Island Festival Park. 8 p.m. Parking available at Roanoke Island Festival Park and in the Town of Manteo. Guests should bring lawn chairs or blankets as seating is on the lawn. Picnics welcome. Free admission. (252) 473-2138, (877) 629-4386 or outerbanks.org

June 21
REAL Father’s Day Sessions
Spend time with Dad taking sessions! Buy 1 get 1 FREE for you and your father on REAL Kiteboarding Ground Control and Watertime Lessons, as well as REAL Standup Paddleboard and REAL Surfing Lessons. Nothing is more fun than spending a day with Dad on the water! For more information: (252) 987-6000.
Kite Boarding| Surfing Lessons | Standup Paddleboard Lessons

June 24
Showcase Magic & Comedy Show
Kitty Hawk. 7:30 pm at Outer Banks Music Showcase, Milepost 4.5, Kitty Hawk. Featuring World-renowned Illusionists Clive Allen & Tracy. View clips at OBXExtremeMagic.com. Tickets $19.95 Adults, $18.95 Seniors, $7 Children. (252) 261-7505. Event URL: www.OuterBanksMusicShowcase.com

June 24 - 25
8th Annual “Under the Oaks” Art Festival
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. / 5 p.m. Enjoy this annual outdoor art show on the grounds of Currituck Heritage Park with over 100 quality artists showcasing a wide variety of media, musical entertainment, food concessions, and children's activities. Admission is free - $5 parking donation requested. For more information call 252-453-9040.

June 25
Discovery Thursdays
Discovery Thursdays at The Elizabethan Gardens, will include up to five interactive activities that families will enjoy together. These activities will focus on a specific aspect of The Gardens. Participants will gain further understanding and appreciation of The Gardens and Elizabethan Times which they can apply as they later tour The Elizabethan Gardens. Located in our air-conditioned theater.  (252) 473-3234 or ElizabethanGardens.org

June 25
Simon’s Pirate Adventure
3 p.m. - 5 p.m. Come with your bawdy crew to be dressed like a pirate, talk like a pirate and act like a pirate. Enjoy Simon Fernando’s famous Carolina pirate friends as they reenact their dramatic high seas adventures. Simon’s Pirate Adventure includes a backstage tour of Waterside Theatre, a keepsake photo of you with a pirate and delicious pirate’s feast. 24-hour advance reservations required. Tickets are $22 for Adults, $11 for Youth (7-18 years). (252) 473-2127 or TheLostColony.org

June 27
Check-in Day Specials
$7 laser tag games until 4 PM. Not valid with other coupons. For more information about Gearworks Laser Tag & Fun Center visit www.OBXGearworks.com

June 27 - 28
Kitty Hawk Kites Kiteboarding Competition
Kitty Hawk Kites Kiteboarding Center, Waves Village. Come see some of the best kiteboarders in the world. Free demonstrations and competitions will be held. (252) 441-4124, (877) FLY-THIS or KittyHawk.com

Until Next Time,
Your OBX Blogger

 

 

        

              


School is out almost everywhere or soon will be ... happy kids everywhere!  This picture expresses that as well as any I have ever seen.   One perk of having an office near the beach is that we can hear kids laughing and playing all day long as they get in and out of the pool, play at the beach, etc.  We even have a good view of a few homes with pools from the window in our office and also a glimpse of the ocean. 

If you are one of our readers, we have a "deal for you"... mention that you saw this discount on our blog and get $100 off of any 2009 week.  But you have to make and confirm your reservation by June 23th.   You can either call us at 877-271-2224 (toll free) or visit us online at www.VacationsOBX.com

Just mention that you saw the "School's Out Blog Special Offer" to one of our reservation agents when you call or if you're booking online (secure booking is available 24/7) please enter the "School's Out $100 off" in the comment section on the booking page.

This offer does apply to new reservations only, those made starting today June 11 and only runs through June 23rd , 2009.  Applies for any full week, any time of year. 

Speaking of great photos, and I did, Village Realty is sponsorng a Photo Contest and anyone can enter. You do not have to buy anything or rent a  home or agree to let us send you emails ...nothing!   The only rules are (a) no professional photographers, please and (b) the subject has to be something on the Outer Banks. That can be people, places, things, events...anything.   First (and only) prize is a free week in one of our homes or condos during the off season.  You do have to agree to let us use your photo any way we choose which mean you also could end up being a "Star" on the world wide web. We will not ever use names for any photo but we will try to let you know when we are adding to either our website or in an online ad or a print ad.  

Want more information?  Click Here.  You can enter as many photos as you like. 

Thanks to Kirsten Lewis for letting me use her wonderful photo for this post. You can find more of her work on www.innatephoto.com

Until Next Time,
Your OBX Blogger
JM
www.VillageRealtyOBX.com

        

                                 

Tuesday lunch on the OBX ... we went to Sugar Creek on the causeway and had a fantastic lunch today. The wait person was very nice and the food as always was great.

Sugar Creek is a great family restaurant and the menu offers something for everyone, kids included.  I highly recommend it for visitors alike.

Most of the time I eat at my desk but sometimes you just need to get out of the office. Knowing that I can be somewhere near the water at the same time as enjoying a delicious lunch is also an incentive.

What did we have? I had fried oysters and Jenny had tuna salad and shrimp salad. Wish we could have stayed longer, had a few drinks and enjoyed the views and the breeze but duty calls.

Until Next Time,
Your OBX Blogger