The 15th annual Outer Banks Pride Week officially gets underway today, September 11, ushering in three vibrant days of unity, inclusion, and a whole lot of camp through Sunday, September 13. Hosted by local nonprofit OBX Pride, Inc., this three-day series highlights the rich diversity of our LGBTQIA+ community and allies with a stellar lineup of live performances, family-friendly activities, and festive local gatherings.
Hosted by OBX Pride, Inc., the festivities begin Friday evening with the sold-out Out at Sea Sunset Cruise departing from Pirate’s Cove Marina, bringing community members together on the water before transitioning to Big Delighted Energy, a live show starring drag performer Delighted Tobehere at Good Winds Restaurant in Rodanthe at 10 p.m.
Saturday features the centerpiece of the weekend: the free, family-friendly 15th Annual OBX PrideFest. Held from noon to 6 p.m. at Roanoke Island Festival Park in Manteo, the 2026 festival centers on the powerful theme “America Is All of Us,” a message celebrating the diverse fabric of the nation in connection with the ongoing America250 semi-quincentennial commemoration.
Hosted by MC Delighted Tobehere, the waterfront celebration highlights local talent, inclusion, and creative expression. Festivalgoers can enjoy diverse food and craft vendors, live music, and a dynamic lineup of performances by Gigi Monroe, Roy Fahrenheit, K2 Russo, Someone’s Sister, The Storyweavers, Not Those Girls, and SweetTooth.
Adding an extra layer of flair and community spirit is the newly added “Do It Like Dolly” Tribute Costume Contest at 3 p.m., which invites attendees to dress in their best Dolly Parton-inspired attire to honor the late country icon’s legacy of love, acceptance, and bold individuality. The contest is sponsored by Hotline Outer Banks, The Outer Banks Life, and 99.1 The Sound – WVOD.
The celebration of togetherness continues Saturday evening with the Together We Shine Celebration from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Old Tom’s Beer, Wine and Provisions in Manteo, followed by DJ Steven Pack’s Dance Party starting at 10 p.m. at Basnight’s Lone Cedar Cafe in Nags Head.
Pride Week concludes Sunday, September 13, with the Big Gay Drag Brunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Jennette’s Pier in Nags Head, featuring performances by Delighted Tobehere and Gigi Monroe. In the spirit of community support, proceeds from the brunch benefit the Cape Hatteras Food Pantry.
While online ticket sales have officially ended, organizers note that tickets for remaining ticketed events will be available for purchase at the door on a first-come, first-served basis.
For the complete event schedule and festival details, visit obxpridefest.com.
