Exciting Times Await in Barco at the 18th Annual Wildlife Festival!
Barco, North Carolina, is gearing up for a spectacular weekend as the Coinjock Ruritan Club prepares for its much-anticipated 18th Annual Wildlife Festival! Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 7, and Sunday, September 8, 2024, because this two-day showcase will feature some of the most talented wildlife artists from our region, and it’s an event you won’t want to miss.
Art in the Heart of Nature
The festival is all about celebrating the beauty of wildlife through art, which you can find on full display at the Currituck County High School in Barco. Doors open both days with a bustling schedule: from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. So whether you’re an early bird or like to sleep in a bit, there’s plenty of time to soak up the incredible creations on offer!
A Feast for Art Lovers
From decoy carvers and sculptors to painters and photographers, this festival has something for everyone. You’ll have the chance to meet local artists and learn about their craft, which can really deepen your appreciation for their work. It’s a wonderful opportunity to bring home a unique piece that speaks to the natural world we cherish so much.
Supporting the Community
But wait, there’s more! Not only will you enjoy a fantastic display of art, but you’ll also be supporting local community members and organizations. Proceeds from the festival go back into our community, creating a sense of togetherness and making Barco an even better place to live. It’s a win-win situation: you have a fabulous time and help others in the process!
A Rich History Awaits
Curiously, Currituck County has a fascinating history, recognized as a prime stop for migratory waterfowl. It even earned the Algonquin name “Coratank,” which translates to “where the wild geese fly”. This rich wildlife tradition can be traced back to the 1800s when sportsmen began flocking to the area for hunting, setting the foundation for the wildlife art market we celebrate today.
Becoming a Vendor
Do you have a talent for wildlife arts? The Coinjock Ruritan Club is currently looking for vendors to showcase their work at this year’s festival! If you’re interested, you can find more details on how to apply to be a vendor by visiting www.coinjockruritanclub.com/events or giving them a call at 252.312.4433. This is your chance to shine a light on your art in front of a community that loves and appreciates wildlife!
Stay Connected for More Local Happenings
As the Outer Banks community buzzes with excitement, don’t forget to subscribe for top stories delivered straight to your inbox each morning. And keep your eyes peeled for other local events – you never know what fun activities are just around the corner!
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a wildlife lover, or just looking for a great weekend outing with family and friends, the Wildlife Festival has something in store for you. So gather your loved ones, head to Barco, and let’s make some memories that will last a lifetime!

Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.


