Last Updated on September 3, 2024 by The Smetz Files
If you’re searching for fall fun at the beach, read this post for five family friendly community events at Ocean Isle Beach, NC!
It’s no secret our family loves spending time at our second home on the North Carolina coast. We’re there as much as our schedules allow. Right now while we’re raising two active kiddos, it can be challenging to get there as often as we like.
Of course the beach is the primary reason most people head down, but we spend a lot of time at Town Center Park in the heart of Ocean Isle. It’s perfect for us because it’s walkable or bike able for us from the Diamond.
Since we bought the Diamond in 2020, fall is one of our most favorite times to be on the island.
If you’re looking for an island experience during the off season, here are five community events you don’t want to miss on your offseason visit to Ocean Isle Beach.
September
Fall Food Truck Festival
In the last year, Town Center Park expanded to include more playground space, a basketball/pickle ball court, and additional tables and seating for enjoying the park.
One of the newer happenings at the park is the Fall Food Truck Festival. This year marks the second annual event on September 28th. Stroll the park, sample some local vendors, and take in some live music.
Click here for event details!
October
Oyster Festival
This island classic, long standing event (43 years!) is a favorite of many island goers. Home rentals book early for this fall weekend. This two day event is scheduled October 19th and 20th with food, music, and crafts.
If you’re off the island, there’s shuttle info and general festival information, including the lineup of bands scheduled linked here.
Trunk or Treat
Trick or treat island style at Town Center Park! This is a fun family friendly event where kids don their best costumes and trunk or treat through the park. Local businesses and families decorate their trunks and golf carts. Typically the OIB fire department has one of their ladder trucks out for the night.
Bring the family for this Friday night fun on October 25th. Event details linked here.
Run Ocean Isle Beach
If you’re not too hungover from the sugar rush the night before at Trunk or Treat, start your Saturday morning off and running. With multiple race options, you can get your run in before time on the sand.
Make sure you bring friends and family to cheer you on as you cross the finish line October 26th! Race details and registration information links.
November
Black Friday Market
If you like to support local artists and vendors, slip down to the Park to do your holiday shopping. November 29th is the Black Friday Market at Ocean Isle. Beautiful island artisans and crafts are on hand. Find some of your favorite local gifts and check off your holiday shopping list. Hang around for the Christmas Parade to get fully in the spirit and catch a glimpse of the jolly guy!
If you’re looking for a low key holiday destination experience, Thanksgiving and Christmas are great times to find your way to the island. You can walk off the extra turkey and have your family football game on the sand!
Who says the fun ends with summer?!
One of our favorite aspects of our island community are the family friendly events that make fall a fun time to be at the beach.
Which events will your family love?
Meet us at the beach!
