Elizabeth City sits at the southern terminus of the Dismal Swamp Canal and has the well-earned reputation of being a transient-friendly town with free dockage for 72 hours.
America is turning 250, and there’s no better place to celebrate than right here on Elizabeth City’s beautiful waterfront. From fireworks lighting up the sky to live music, family-friendly events, baseball, art, and community gatherings, this week is packed with opportunities to make memories with friends and family.
Whether you’re a local looking for holiday fun or a visitor planning a getaway, the waterfront is the place to be. Grab a lawn chair, enjoy the river views, explore downtown, and join us as we celebrate our nation’s birthday in true harbor-town style. The red, white, and boom starts here!
Bring a taste of the islands to your next meal at Bistro Tropical! Located on Elizabeth City’s waterfront, this vibrant spot serves up fresh Caribbean-inspired seafood, flavorful seafood boils, delicious brunch favorites, and tropical cocktails—all with beautiful dockside views of the Pasquotank River.
Whether you’re stopping in for lunch, dinner, or a relaxing waterfront brunch, Bistro Tropical delivers a little slice of the Caribbean right here in downtown.
Follow us on social for the latest updates and what’s happening around the county.
Copyright (C) 2026 Elizabeth City – Pasquotank County TDA. All rights reserved.
Keep your calendar clear: Every season in Washington, NC brings something new and exciting. Enjoy local festivals, area concerts, or waterfront adventure.
Elizabeth City sits at the southern terminus of the Dismal Swamp Canal and has the well-earned reputation of being a transient-friendly town with free dockage for 72 hours.
Experience a Weekend of Culture, Connection & Celebration
June 19-21
FRIDAY
June 19th, 2026
5:00 -7:30 pm
516 E Main St, Elizabeth City, NC 27909
The Juneteenth celebration kicks off Friday night at Arts of the Albemarle with an exciting evening of culture, connection, and community! Hosted in partnership with The Elizabeth City Area Chamber of Commerce, the event features an inspiring presentation from the Pasquotank County NAACP, great networking opportunities, lively conversations, delicious free soul food, and entertainment. Join uf for this special Business After Hours Reception! Bring your friends and family and join us as we launch a weekend filled with celebration, history, and fun!
SATURDAY
June 20th, 2026
12:00-5:00pm
508 S Water St, Elizabeth City, NC 27909
Saturday is all about fun, family, and community at the Main Festival, presented by River City CDC and Community Partners! The day kicks off with an opening ceremony, followed by shopping with local vendors, delicious free food stations, live music and entertainment, games, and activities for all ages. Celebrating its 21st year, this beloved festival brings family reunion vibes to Waterfront Park with a special kids’ zone and plenty of opportunities to connect, celebrate, and make memories..
Atlantic Yacht Basin, A LONG-TIME CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, is located just south of the Great Bridge lock and bridge at Mile Marker 12 in Great Bridge, VA. If you have wood damage or need a few modifications with the interior or exterior of your boat, Atlantic Yacht Basin has the team to fix it right.
I have used them many times for both repairs and short-term storage during my ICW trips. AYB has a great location and is capable of performing any repairs you may require.
Keep your calendar clear: Every season in Washington, NC brings something new and exciting. Enjoy local festivals, area concerts, or waterfront adventure.
Elizabeth City sits at the southern terminus of the Dismal Swamp Canal and has the well-earned reputation of being a transient-friendly town with free dockage for 72 hours.
Summer Starts at the Harbor
The Bassmaster Countdown Is On
Elizabeth City is gearing up for one of the biggest weekends of the year as the Bassmaster Elite Series returns to the waterfront June 11–14! Professional anglers from across the country will compete on our local waters while downtown comes alive with daily weigh-ins, vendors, food trucks, live entertainment, and family-friendly fun during Harbor Festival weekend. Planning to visit? Now is the perfect time to book your hotel, bed and breakfast or Airbnb and experience the excitement right here in the Harbor of Hospitality.
Enjoy live music downtown with Kaye Baron at Seven Sounds Brewing Company on June 4 starting at 5:30 PM.
Don’t miss First Friday ArtWalk on June 5 beginning at 4 PM featuring local artists, shopping, dining, and waterfront fun throughout downtown Elizabeth City.
Currently located at 111 N. McMorrine Street, All The Things has become a favorite downtown stop for vintage lovers, treasure hunters, and anyone who enjoys discovering something unique. Filled with antiques, collectibles, handmade goods, and nostalgic finds, the shop offers a fun and ever-changing shopping experience right in the heart of Elizabeth City.
This summer,All The Things will be moving into the former Rochelle Cleaners building at 100 S. Water Street, giving new life to one of downtown’s classic historic spaces. Whether you’re browsing for vintage décor, gifts, or simply exploring downtown, All The Things is a must-visit local gem.
Follow us on social for the latest updates and what’s happening around the county.
Copyright (C) 2026 Elizabeth City – Pasquotank County TDA. All rights reserved.
Elizabeth City sits at the southern terminus of the Dismal Swamp Canal and has the well-earned reputation of being a transient-friendly town with free dockage for 72 hours.
Your Weekend Plans Just Got Better
School’s Out, Boats Are In, & Summer Begins
Kick Off Summer in Elizabeth City
School’s out, the days are getting longer, and summer fun is officially arriving in Elizabeth City. From waterfront walks and local shopping to delicious dining and relaxing harbor views, June is the perfect time to plan a getaway to the Harbor of Hospitality.
Harbor Happenings
Betsy is coming! – Step back in time and experience the legendary story of Betsy Dowdy during the upcoming Betsy Dowdy Ride Event on May 30. This unique regional reenactment honors the brave 16-year-old who rode nearly 50 miles through the night in 1775 to warn local militia troops of advancing British forces.
Live Music: Downtown is bringing the music this week with several live performances to enjoy along the waterfront. Catch PBNJ at River City Biergarten on Thursday May 28, Derek Smith & Jasper Smith at Seven Sounds Brewing Company on Friday May 29, and Jazz Night with James & Connected at 2 Souls Wine Bar on Saturday May 30. It’s the perfect excuse to grab dinner, relax with friends, and enjoy a fun weekend downtown.
BassMaster Elite Hooked on the Harbor fishing tournament: Excitement is building in Elizabeth City as this nationally known fishing tournament is quickly approaching on June 11–14 at Waterfront Park. Visitors can look forward to daily weigh-ins, professional anglers, local vendors, family-friendly activities, and a lively Harbor Festival atmosphere throughout downtown. We are currently confirming volunteers, if you’d like to be part of the excitement, sign up today! Bassmaster Volunteer Sign Up
River City Skippers baseball: Summer fun is officially underway in Elizabeth City as the River City Skippers kick off their 4th season in the Old North State League at Knobbs Creek Park. The Skippers bring exciting summer collegiate baseball to the waterfront community all season long.
First Friday Art Walk: Be sure to mark your calendar for the June First Friday ArtWalk , where downtown comes alive with local artists, shopping, music, and community fun. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or just looking for a reason to explore the harbor, June is packed with reasons to visit Elizabeth City.
Cruise into waterfront fun aboard the Albemarle Queen, one of Elizabeth City’s most unique experiences on the water. Offering scenic cruises along the Pasquotank River and Albemarle Sound, the paddlewheel boat provides a relaxing way to enjoy the Harbor of Hospitality from a different perspective.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, date night, or family outing, the Albemarle Queen offers memorable cruises and specialty events throughout the season. With beautiful waterfront views and a welcoming atmosphere, it continues to be a favorite for both visitors and locals alike.
Follow us on social for the latest updates and what’s happening around the county.
Copyright (C) 2026 Elizabeth City – Pasquotank County TDA. All rights reserved.
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