The annual Day at the Docks Festival is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. The event will take place on Friday and Saturday, September 13-14, in Hatteras Village.

Reviving the “Spirit of Hatteras”

Day at the Docks was founded to revive the “Spirit of Hatteras” and support the local fishing industries. Originally focused on commercial and charter fishing, the event has grown significantly over the years. It has evolved into a two-day celebration that highlights community strength, heritage, and the traditions of island watermen. Today, many visitors plan their vacations around this event. Each year, it continues to expand, with new activities and vendors regularly added.

Kickoff Event: Seafood Under the Stars

The festival kicks off on Friday evening with the “Seafood Under the Stars” dinner, a decadent five-course meal. Tickets for this popular event, which typically sells out, are now on sale. With only 120 seats available, reservations are highly recommended. To book a spot, visit Seafood Under the Stars Reservation.

Saturday Highlights: Chowder Cook-Off and Seafood Throwdown

One of the most anticipated events of DATD, the Hatteras Island Cancer Foundation’s (HICF) Chowder Cook-off, will return. The timings will be on Saturday, September 14, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Local restaurants will compete for the title of the 2024 HICF Best Chowder. For a $10 tasting fee, attendees can sample the entries and vote for their favorites. All proceeds will benefit the HICF.

The Seafood Throwdown, another highlight of the festival, will take place at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday. This year’s competition will feature Chef Tyler Naughton of Toucana Grill in Hatteras Village and Chef Brandyn Powers of The Froggy Dog in Avon.

Additional Activities and Traditions

Details about other annual activities of the festival will unravel the closer we get to the event date. These include the Fishy 5K, the concrete marlin competition, and the Blessing of the Fleet.

Stay Informed

For more information on Day at the Docks, visit Hatteras on My Mind or follow the event’s Facebook page at Day at the Docks.