Outer Banks Wedding Weekend and Expo- January 16-18, 2026
Celebrate love and gather wedding inspiration at the Outer Banks Wedding Weekend and Expo, returning to downtown Manteo, North Carolina. This signature Outer Banks event welcomes engaged couples and their planning teams to discover an impressive lineup of wedding vendors, services, and venues- everything you need to bring your dream OBX wedding to life.
The Wedding Weekend and Expo is designed to connect couples with leading wedding professionals from across the region. Throughout the weekend, attendees can enjoy a variety of experiences:
Friday, January 16- Welcome Party
Kick off festivities on Friday evening with the Welcome Party at The Pavillon at Pirate's Cove Marina from 6-8 pm. Guests can also pick up their event wristbands and materials here, helping streamline entry into Saturday's Expo locations.
Saturday, January 17- Wedding Expo
The Expo takes place on Saturday from 10am- 3pm, in downtown Manteo across four walkable venues: 108 Budleigh, The Pioneer Theater, The Waterfront Trellis, and The Manteo House. Each site will be filled with wedding professionals excited to meet couples and share ideas. Many exhibitors will offer special Expo-only discounts for bookings made during or shortly after the event. VIP ticket holders will enjoy exclusive access to the VIP lounge at The Manteo House, and food trucks will be available on site.
Sunday, January 18- Wedding Venue Tour
On Sunday, the Wedding Venue Tour invites couples to explore participating venues and businesses from Carova to Manteo between 10am and 5pm. Many locations will host additional vendors, giving guests even more chances to gather inspiration, ask questions, and experience some of the most breathtaking wedding settings along the North Carolina coast.
Tickets are available now. General admission includes entry to all weekend events, while VIP tickets unlock additional perks such as access to the VIP lounge at The Manteo House and the chance to win $500. To learn more or purchase tickets, visit obxwa.com/expo
Destination Weddings on Hatteras Island, North Carolina: The Ultimate Guide to Saying "I Do" in the Outer Banks
Looking for the perfect North Carolina beach wedding destination? Hatteras Island- one of the most stunning and tranquil spots in the Outer Banks, is quickly becoming a top choice for couples dreaming of an oceanfront celebration.
If you want a wedding day filled with natural beauty, a laid-back coastal vibe, and unforgettable experiences for you and your guests, Hatteras Island offers everything you need for a breathtaking destination wedding.
Why Choose Hatteras Island for your Destination Wedding?
1. Unmatched Natural Beauty
Hatteras Island is famous for its pristine beaches, dramatic dunes, and wide-open skies making it a dream location for an Outer Banks beach wedding. Whether you're planning a sunrise ceremony by the Atlantic Ocean or a sunset celebration overlooking the Pamlico Sound, the island provides stunning backdrops without needing elaborate decor.
2. Relaxed Outer Banks Atmosphere
Couples love Hatteras Island for its peaceful, unhurried feel. Unlike more crowded coastal destinations, this stretch of the Outer Banks is known for its quiet villages, local charm, and miles of unspoiled coastline. If you're seeking a stress-free North Carolina destination wedding, Hatteras hits the sweet spot between romance and relaxation.
3. Unique Wedding Venues on Hatteras Island
Hatteras Island offers a range of wedding venues suited for intimate gatherings, elopements, and small to medium size celebrations. Popular options include:
Oceanfront Vacation Rentals- for private ceremonies & receptions: 5 Perfect Vacation Homes at Hatteras Island Vacation Rentals
Sound side marinas and piers- perfect for sunset views: Jeanette's Pier
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse grounds- for iconic photo opportunities: Permits
Hatteras Island is a Photographer's Paradise
If you've always dreamed of stunning wedding photos, you'll love the island's ever-changing coastal light. From pastel sunrises to dramatic stormy skies, Hatteras gives photographers endless opportunities to capture the beauty of your wedding day. Couples planning an Outer Banks wedding often choose Hatteras specifically for its picturesque views.
Tips for Planning a Destination Wedding on Hatteras Island
1. Choose the Best Time of Year
Spring and Fall offer beautiful weather, fewer crowds, and gorgeous light- making them peak seasons for Outer Banks destination weddings.
2. Book Accommodations Early
Vacation Rentals fill up quickly, especially oceanfront properties. Secure your home or venue well in advance. Hatteras Island Vacation Rentals
3. Reach out to Local Vendors for Insight
Local planners, photographers, caterers, and florists understand the island's conditions- from wind patterns to tide schedules- and can help ensure a smooth event. Engaging Events
4. Prepare for Coastal Weather
A backup plan for outdoor weddings is always a smart idea. Think wind-friendly hairstyles, tent options and flexible ceremony setups.
If you've been searching for the perfect North Carolina beach wedding location, Hatteras Island combines charm and serenity in a way few places can match. Whether you envision a barefoot beach ceremony or an elegant celebration with a coastal twist, this Outer Banks gem provides the ideal setting for your "forever" moment.