Plans are being finalized for the Dare A250 Faire, set for Saturday, April 18, 2026, in downtown Manteo and at Roanoke Island Festival Park. The Roanoke Island setting highlights the area’s rich history as the “Birthplace of America,” with the historic Elizabeth II serving as a meaningful backdrop to the festivities.

As Dare County’s signature event commemorating the nation’s 250th anniversary, this milestone celebration will feature a variety of vendors, along with live music, historical reenactments and storytelling, art displays, educational programming, community exhibits, family-friendly activities and patriotic festivities that highlight Dare County, the “Land of Beginnings,” and our enduring spirit of innovation and discovery. 

Activities will take place throughout downtown Manteo from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., before transitioning to Roanoke Island Festival Park for the All-American Show—an evening celebration featuring headlining musical acts (to be announced soon) and a special performance highlighting Dare County’s rich history.

Additional details—including entertainment lineups, participating vendors and a full schedule of events—will be released in the coming weeks.

The Dare A250 Celebration is designed as a full-day experience and is offered free of charge. While the daytime festivities in downtown Manteo are open to all, free tickets will be required for the evening performance at Roanoke Island Festival Park due to venue capacity. Tickets will be available online beginning March 9, 2026, at DareA250.org/faire.

The Dare A250 Faire was originally scheduled at the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills, NC but was relocated to Manteo and Roanoke Island Festival Park to allow all aspects of the planning committee’s vision to be included in the celebration.

As specific details for the Dare A250 Faire are announced, all information will be available at DareA250.org/faire. Questions may be directed to Dare County Public Information Director Dorothy Hester at Dorothy@DareNC.gov.