The Saturday after Thanksgiving is Small Business Saturday, and in 2026 it falls on November 28. It’s the perfect day to start your holiday shopping in downtown Morehead City, where the shops are locally owned, the owners know their customers by name, and you can find gifts you won’t see anywhere else.
Where to shop
Downtown’s shopping is concentrated along Arendell Street, the main street through town, and Evans Street along the waterfront. In a few blocks you’ll find boutiques, antiques, gift shops, art galleries and longtime local favorites like Dee Gee’s Gifts & Books. It’s easy to park once and spend the whole day on foot.
Ideas for coastal gifts
- Local art and prints of the waterfront, Sugarloaf Island and the Big Rock marlin fountain
- Books by North Carolina authors and Crystal Coast history
- Coastal home décor and jewelry made by local artisans
- Gift cards to downtown restaurants (a great gift for anyone who loves the coast)
- Gift cards for a boat tour from the downtown waterfront
Holiday Show at the Arts Council
The Arts Council of Carteret County hosts its seasonal Holiday Show from November 14 to December 19, 2026, generally open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. It’s an exhibit and sale of work by local artists, and a great place to find one-of-a-kind gifts while supporting the local arts community.
Make a weekend of it
Thanksgiving weekend is a relaxed time downtown. Pair your shopping with:
- A waterfront lunch or dinner. See our list of the best restaurants in downtown Morehead City.
- A walk along the boardwalk past the charter docks and the Big Rock marlin fountain.
- A visit to the Carteret County Historical Museum on Arendell Street.
More ideas: things to do in downtown Morehead City.
Looking ahead to December
Small Business Saturday kicks off a busy holiday season downtown, with the tree lighting, a lighted boat flotilla, the Christmas parade on December 12 and the Gingerbread Festival. Read our 2026 holiday events guide to plan a return trip.
Make it a shopping weekend
Stay right downtown and walk to every shop. Book direct with Legacy Real Estate Group for the best rate.
See our downtown rentals or call 252-342-6108
Event dates and times are set by the organizers and can change, especially with weather. Check the organizer’s announcements before you go.