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The Jockey’s Ridge State Park – home of the tallest natural sand dune system on the East Coast – is turning 50, and the community is throwing it a party as grand as the ridge itself.

From June 5 to 8, Jockey’s Ridge State Park will host a four-day golden anniversary celebration packed with family-friendly events, outdoor adventures and a historic first: a drone light show illuminating the skies above the dunes. Organizers expect thousands of visitors for what promises to be one of the most exciting and dynamic events the Outer Banks has seen in years.

Created in 1975 through the efforts of passionate local advocates, including legendary activist Carolista Baum, Jockey’s Ridge State Park was established to protect the iconic shifting sand dunes from development. Since then, it has become a beloved landmark on the Outer Banks, offering unmatched views, recreational activities, and a vital habitat for coastal wildlife.

Over the decades, the park has welcomed millions of visitors and become a premier destination for hang gliding, kite flying, hiking and nature exploration. As the centerpiece of the Outer Banks’ natural heritage, its 50th anniversary will highlight not only its scenic beauty but also the community spirit that saved it.

The celebration kicks off Thursday, June 5, with kayak tours, educational programs, and a special homecoming dinner for past and present park staff. On Friday, the dunes will come alive with the Outer Banks Rogallo Kite Festival, hang gliding demonstrations, and a free concert by The Connells, capped by the park’s first-ever drone light show, presented by Sky Elements.

Saturday will start with sunrise yoga on the dunes and continue with family activities, kids’ programs, more kite displays, and a 50th anniversary celebration and cake cutting at the Visitor Center. As the sun sets, guests will gather for a stirring sunset toast, flag raising and the singing of the national anthem, accompanied by a live performance from local music legend Mojo Collins & Triple Vision.

The weekend wraps up on Sunday with more yoga, a disc golf tournament, a living shoreline volunteer project, and a classic sandcastle contest. The final event, a sunset kayak tour on the sound, will offer a peaceful closing to a weekend filled with energy, nostalgia and joy.

Commemorative 50th anniversary merchandise will soon be available in the park’s new online store. Organizers are also seeking volunteers for event support, shoreline planting and hospitality roles. Those interested can sign up via the 50th anniversary volunteer form on the official website.

Free tickets and the full schedule of events are available now at JockeysRidge50.com. Come for the kites, stay for the sunsets, and be a part of history at Jockey’s Ridge State Park!

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