Jockey’s Ridge State Park to Celebrate 50th Anniversary with Historic Four-Day Event First-Ever Outer Banks Drone Light Show, Live Concert on the Dunes, and More. This summer, join the celebration of one of the Outer Banks’ most iconic and cherished natural landmarks as Jockey’s Ridge State Park marks its 50th Anniversary. From June 5–8, 2025, Park Superintendent Joy Cook and The Friends of Jockey’s Ridge invite the community and visitors alike to a four-day festival of free events honoring the past, present, and future of this unique coastal treasure. A Celebration Like No Other The anniversary celebration will feature a dynamic lineup of free, family-friendly activities and first-time-ever events on the Outer Banks, including: • Outer Banks’ first-ever Drone Light Show over the majestic dunes of Jockey’s Ridge • Live concert on the dunes by The Connells, one of North Carolina’s most beloved indie rock bands • A sunset toast and flag-raising ceremony atop the dunes, with the National Anthem echoing across the landscape • Interactive programs including a disc golf tournament, horseshoe tournament, kayaking adventures, and children’s educational activities • Sunrise yoga overlooking the Atlantic, the premiere of a new Jockey’s Ridge documentary, and the unveiling of a shoreline expansion project • A homecoming event, time capsule dedication, and much more All events are free and open to the public, but reservations are required. Secure your spot at jockeysridge50.com and follow Friends of Jockey’s Ridge on Facebook for the latest updates. Honoring a Legacy of Preservation This 50th Anniversary is more than a celebration — it’s a tribute to the courage of Carolista Baum, whose fearless stand in 1973 halted a bulldozer poised to destroy the dunes. Her activism sparked a grassroots movement that led to the creation of Jockey’s Ridge State Park in 1975, protecting 426 acres of the largest living sand dune system on the East Coast. Today, the park welcomes over one million visitors each year, continuing to inspire awe and adventure for all who walk its shifting sands. Join Us — Be a Part of History Make your plans now to experience this once-in-a-lifetime celebration. Visit jockeysridge50.com for the full event itinerary and to reserve your free tickets. Let’s come together to celebrate 50 years of wonder, community, and conservation at Jockey’s Ridge State Park. We’ll see you on the dunes!