Observer staff report
Pirates, patriots and phantasms were among the hallmarks of this year’s July 4 activities.
The weather held out for the three days of activities, although it was very hot, and activities all proceeded apace.
Once again, Pyrotecnico provided professional fireworks on July 2. They had been canceled in 2025 due to the threat of an evening thunderstorm, which occurred around dusk.
While the crowd gathered in front of the NPS docks prior to the display, local DJ Tommy Hutcherson provided music.
This year’s traditional Ocracoke square dance on July 3 was moved into the Ocracoke School commons and was attended by more than 100 adults and children.
About 20 sculptures festooned the Lifeguard beach for the annual Sand Sculpture Contest on July 4.
Islander Dave Frum noted that this was the 50th year for the event, as he, when he worked for the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, began the contest in the 1976, the Bicentennial of the United States.
Anonymous judges awarded honors in four categories, and at the end of the construction period (from 9:30 a.m. to noon), all on the beach voted for Best in Show.
“There were a lot of really creative minds,” said one judge about the sculptures. “It was fun listening to the inspiration.”
The Old-time parade, which began at 4:30 had more than 35 participants for walk ‘n roll, wheels, floats, Best in Show and Best Theme, which was “The 250th anniversary of the United States.”
“This year’s Fourth of July parade entries were a remarkable display of patriotism and community pride,” noted one judge. “Participants brought a palpable energy to the celebration, with creative floats, spirited performances and enthusiastic marchers.
The pirate entry, “Captain One-Eyed Johnson & His Crew” at the start of the parade, was really spectacular, marching and dancing in the July heat in their heavy costumes. Everyone’s excitement and dedication made this year’s parade especially memorable.”
Islander Rex O’Neal, world famous for his Ocracoke brogue, was this year’s grand marshal.
During the parade, paramedics were called to a house along the route near Creek Road and Silver Lake Drive, which caused the parade to halt for about 15 minutes before resuming. A medevac was necessary, and two of the firetrucks in the parade went to the airport’s landing zone to provide support.
A community beach fire at the Lifeguard beach concluded the events, which are put on by the Ocracoke Civic & Business Association and sponsored by the Ocracoke Occupancy Tax Board.
The following are the winners and other highlights.
