Due to its remarkable aviation legacy, the Outer Banks have become a cherished getaway for airplane enthusiasts. If you have a passion for airplanes (or history!), then you should make sure you check out the National Aviation Day celebration at the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Manteo!
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National Aviation Day was first celebrated in 1939. It coincides with Orville Wright’s birth date to celebrate the history and achievements of aviation in the United States. The annual National Aviation Day celebration aims to provide a fun and educational experience that honors the Wright Brothers' important accomplishments.
This year's celebration is extra exciting. From 9am to 5pm, the Wright Brothers National Memorial's Visitor Center and Flight Room will be open to guests. They will host periodic demonstrations of their 1903 Flyer's wing-warping design. Ranger-led programs will take place on the hour between 10am and 3pm. Other all-day activities include the offerings of the Junior Flight Ranger program and radio demonstrations by the Outer Banks Repeater Association.
Photo from https://www.facebook.com/WrightBrothersNMem/photos
Stick around into the evening to enjoy additional activities, including:
6:15 p.m.: The Wright Bike (45 minutes)
Let’s go for a ride like the Wright brothers! Bring your bike and helmet and learn about why the Wright brothers chose this area in 1900 and how the site has changed over the years. Meet at the bicycle rack in front of the visitor center.
7:15 p.m.: Sunset Monument Walk (45 minutes)
Explore the story of the Wright brothers and see the sunset as you walk with a ranger to the top of Big Kill Devil Hill. The walk is a quarter of a mile each way. Bring water and sun protection. Meet on the back patio of the visitor center.
8:15 p.m.: Outdoor Movie Presentation of Disney’s “Planes” (90 minutes)
The First Flight Foundation presents this special outdoor showing of Disney’s animated movie, “Planes.” Bring your own blankets and chairs to watch the movie under the stars.
The National Park Service advises, "Plan to spend most of your visit outside and prepare for hot weather."
This family-friendly festival free to attend! Check it out August 19, 2023, between 9am and 10pm.
