National Aviation Day on the Outer Banks
Details about National Aviation Day on the Outer Banks
Price:
- FREE! However, this year’s event benefits Beach Food Pantry. Attendees are encouraged to bring a food item their family enjoys for the food drive, or a monetary donation.
Ages:
- All ages welcome!
Pets:
- Leashed pets are permitted on the field.
National Aviation Day on the Outer Banks: August 19, 2026
Celebrate National Aviation Day on the Outer Banks! National Aviation Day was first proclaimed by Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1939 and honors Orville Wright’s birthday on August 19. On the Outer Banks, Aviation Day is hosted by the First Flight Society and celebrates the Wright brothers and the rich history of flight that followed their pioneering work. This free and family-friendly event is planned to take place at the Dare County Regional Airport in Manteo (previously, it was planned to be held at the Wright Brothers National Memorial; the location was changed on 6/21/26).
History of National Aviation Day on the Outer Banks
Did you know the first controlled, sustained, powered, heavier-than-air flight took place right here on the Outer Banks? On December 17, 1903, Orville Wright piloted the Wright Flyer for twelve seconds, traveling 120 feet and paving the way for a new era of possibility. The First Flight Society was created in 1927 to preserve the location and the legacy of the Wright Brothers’ first flights. They promote aviation education and support the National Park Service at the Wright Brothers National Memorial. The First Flight Society’s National Aviation Day celebration is one of a series of educational programs and annual events.
What to Expect at the National Aviation Day Celebration
Visitors can get up close to eye-catching airplane displays, listen to engaging guest speakers, and explore interactive exhibits designed to heighten their curiosity. Enjoy local food trucks, flyovers, and take part in hands-on activities that make learning about aviation both fun and unforgettable for all ages. In previous years, there have even been scavenger hunts and delicious cake to add to the fun.
Explore The Area
The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island is less than five minutes away from Dare County Regional Airport. It’s recommended to book tickets in advance, because time slots are known to sell out. The aquarium is home to over 2,000 animals and features the Sea Turtle Assistance and Rehabilitation (STAR) Center, touch tanks, interactive exhibits, and more. Other popular attractions nearby include the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, the Elizabethan Gardens, and Island Farm. Downtown Manteo offers great shops, restaurants, and a lovely soundfront boardwalk connected to Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse. There’s certainly no shortage of things to do in Manteo.
See You There!
Whether you’re a longtime aviation fan or just looking for a fun, family-friendly way to spend the day, National Aviation Day on the Outer Banks has a little something for everyone. It’s more than just an event; it’s a chance to soak in some history, enjoy the moment, and maybe even leave with a new appreciation for the evolution of flight.
