Prepare for Christmas in Downtown Manteo; Holiday festivities begin tonight!

Christmas in Manteo is something everyone should have the opportunity to experience: The twinkling of the lights, the scenic views of historic downtown in conjunction with holiday decor, and of course, the merriment that comes with uniting to commemorate the happiest time of year during the annual Christmas parade. The start of these celebrations begins tonight, Friday, December 2, at 6 p.m. with the annual Christmas Tree Lighting.

The program begins on stage in front of the Dare Arts building at 6:00 PM but enjoy merry melodies provided by a local brass band beginning at 5:30 PM.  There will be dancing, singing, warm, cozy fire pits (one at the Christmas Tree lot & one at the Magnolia Pavilion), reindeer games and cookie decorating at the Magnolia Pavilion, sweet treats at the Christmas Tree lot, hot cocoa, hot apple cider, and photo opportunities with Santa over at his new digs at the Magnolia Pavilion!

Dare Arts will have an exhibit opening and a sing-along after the program, so make sure you make it over to their courtyard too!

There is never too much fun to be had, so on Saturday, December 3, the Town will have the 50th Annual Christmas parade.

The parade begins at 10:30 AM and will follow the traditional route beginning at the Manteo High School, going down Wingina to John Borden Street to Croatan Avenue to Queen Elizabeth Avenue and ending at the Roanoke Island Maritime Museum on Fernando Street.  Grab your favorite spot and enjoy all those smiles, candy, and the big guy himself – Santa!

A list of parking and road closures for this weekend’s events is provided below via an infographic provided by the town.

The fun will carry on into next weekend as Mr. C is scheduled to be making a special ride through town on Saturday, December 9, at 5:30 p.m.

For further updates, stay up to speed with the Town of Manteo via Facebook.

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