This past weekend we attended The Outer Banks Seafood Festival in Nags Head, which is sponsored by Towne Bank and The Outer Banks Visitors Bureau. It was an epic picture perfect day to celebrate our long standing-fishing heritage and to showcase a variety of delicious seafood creations prepared by some of the Outer Banks best restaurants. Entry into the festival was $5 per person, with children under 12 free, and you gained access to all of the music, demonstrations, vendors and entertainment provided. Once inside, you can purchase “Seabucks” that are used to purchase food and drinks from the variety of vendors. While the lines were long, everything was well organized and the food was worth the wait! From Low Country Boil and Seafood Mac & Cheese to Crab Nachos, Deep fried Sushi Rolls and funnel fries- there was something for every taste bud in our family.
A few family standouts included the Shrimp stuffed cheese pretzel from Proof Bakery and the Crab Puppies and Tuna Poke bowl from Greentails Seafood Market. We enjoyed local beer from the Outer Banks Brewing Company and local wine from Sanctuary Vineyards while sprawling on the lawn listening to multiple live bands.
After stuffing our faces, I loved walking around and shopping the local artists that were set up selling everything from candles to hot sauce and artwork. Local boat and tackle shops had displays as well as on-site working equipment with fish man sewing nets, throwing crab buoys, and hauling shrimp nets. The crew from Wicked Tuna: Outer Banks were on hand with Captain Griff from the Reels of Fortune and Captain Greg from Fishing Frenzy on-site taking selfies with fans.
However, I think easily our favorite part was the Mullet Toss sponsored by TW’s Tackle Shop. For a $3 donation, you got to get your hands dirty, literally, by tossing a dead mullet fish across the lawn. While most of the participants were big burly men, my little 9-year-old spitfire wanted to get in the mix, stepped right up, and hurled one a full 40 ft! which tied her for first place in her age category. We left before the prizes were awarded but I’m pretty confident she was the big winner that day!
Mark your calendars for next October because this is one festival you don’t want to miss!