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Festivals and Fairs in New Bern, NC: Your Complete 2025 Event Guide
Looking for festivals and fairs in New Bern, NC? This historic coastal town hosts over 30 annual events, from the renowned MumFest—North Carolina’s largest arts and crafts festival—to intimate seasonal celebrations along the waterfront. Whether you’re searching for today’s events, planning a weekend visit, or want to experience the best fairs in New Bern NC throughout the year, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Quick Facts About New Bern Festivals:
- MumFest attracts 60,000+ visitors annually each October, making it the region’s premier festival
- 15+ free festivals happen throughout the year across downtown and Union Point Park
- Year-round event calendar ensures there’s always something happening, from spring garden tours to winter holiday markets
Last Updated: October 2025
Today’s Events in New Bern
Current Events (October 8, 2025):
Looking for a New Bern festival today? Here’s what’s happening right now in the city:
🎨 MumFest 2025 – Weekend 2
- Date: Saturday-Sunday, October 11-12, 2025
- Location: Downtown New Bern (Pollock Street, Union Point Park, and surrounding blocks)
- Admission: Free
- Time: Saturday 9 AM – 6 PM, Sunday 10 AM – 5 PM
- What to Expect: Over 300 artists and crafters, live music on three stages, food vendors, kids’ zone, and the famous Mumfest marketplace
🎃 Fall Farmers Market
- Date: Every Saturday through November
- Location: New Bern Farmers Market, 421 S Front Street
- Time: 8 AM – 1 PM
- Admission: Free (cash for vendors)
🎭 Ghost Walk Tours
- Date: Every Friday-Sunday in October
- Location: Tours depart from New Bern Historical Society
- Time: 7 PM and 8:30 PM
- Admission: $15 adults, $10 children
Check back daily for updated event listings. Events are subject to weather conditions and organizer changes.
Featured Festival: MumFest New Bern – North Carolina’s Premier Arts Festival
When people search for “mumfest new bern” or “new bern fair,” they’re usually referring to MumFest, the city’s signature autumn celebration and one of the largest festivals on the North Carolina coast.
EVENT UPDATE: MumFest 2025 Cancelled Due to Weather
Notice (As of Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025): Organizers have officially cancelled all MumFest activities for the remainder of the weekend (Saturday and Sunday) due to persistent heavy rain and safety concerns.
Please check the official MumFest website for further details and information on any potential rescheduling.
What is MumFest?
MumFest is New Bern’s annual arts and crafts festival, held every second full weekend in October since 1984. With over four decades of history, this beloved event transforms downtown New Bern into a vibrant marketplace featuring:
- 300+ juried artists and crafters from across the Southeast
- Three live music stages with continuous entertainment (rock, country, jazz, and blues)
- 50+ food vendors offering everything from North Carolina BBQ to international cuisine
- Kids’ activity zone with face painting, inflatables, and hands-on crafts
- Beer and wine garden for adults 21+
- Free admission to all festival areas
MumFest 2025 Details
Dates: October 11-12, 2025 (Saturday-Sunday)
Hours:
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Downtown New Bern – The festival spans multiple blocks:
- Pollock Street (main vendor area)
- Union Point Park (music stages and food court)
- Middle Street and surrounding downtown blocks
Expected Attendance: 60,000-70,000 visitors over the weekend
Parking: Street parking fills quickly. Arrive before 10 AM or use these options:
- West New Bern Recreation Complex (free shuttle service)
- Trolley service from outer lots ($2 round trip)
- New Bern Riverfront Convention Center parking ($5 all day)
- Bike racks available at Union Point Park
What Makes MumFest Special:
Unlike typical craft fairs, MumFest features a rigorous jurying process ensuring high-quality, handmade items. You’ll find original artwork, pottery, jewelry, woodworking, textiles, and unique home décor you won’t see elsewhere. The festival also celebrates New Bern’s chrysanthemum heritage—downtown businesses display elaborate mum arrangements, and a “Mum Trail” self-guided tour lets you vote for your favorite displays.
Pro Tips for Visiting MumFest:
- Bring cash – Many vendors don’t accept cards, though ATMs are available
- Wear comfortable shoes – You’ll walk several miles browsing
- Start early – Best selection and smallest crowds before 11 AM
- Pack sunscreen and water – October in NC can still be warm
- Use the free shuttle – Saves parking headaches
- Stay for evening music – Saturday night features regional bands on the main stage
Official Website: mumfest.com (for vendor lists, entertainment schedule, and updates)
Complete Calendar: Festivals and Fairs in New Bern NC by Season
Spring Festivals (March – May)
🌸 New Bern Spring Historic Homes & Gardens Tour
- When: Late April (2025 dates: April 25-27)
- What: Self-guided tour of 10-12 private historic homes and gardens
- Admission: $25 advance, $30 day-of
- Why Go: Rare access to beautifully restored 18th and 19th-century homes in the historic district
⚓ Neuse River Bridge Run & Festival
- When: First Saturday in May (May 3, 2025)
- What: 5K/10K run across Neuse River Bridge, followed by waterfront festival with food and music
- Admission: Race registration $35; festival free
- Family Friendly: Yes – kids’ fun run included
🎣 Neuse River Cleanup & Environmental Festival
- When: Third Saturday in April (April 19, 2025)
- What: Community cleanup followed by environmental education fair at Union Point Park
- Admission: Free
- Volunteer opportunity: Register through City of New Bern website
Summer Festivals (June – August)
🎆 Fourth of July Celebration
- When: July 4, 2025
- What: All-day festivities culminating in fireworks over Neuse River
- Location: Union Point Park
- Admission: Free
- Highlights: Food trucks, live music, kids’ activities, fireworks at 9:15 PM
🎵 Alive After Five Concert Series
- When: Every Thursday, June-August (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
- What: Free outdoor concerts featuring local and regional bands
- Location: Varies – Union Point Park, Lawson Creek Park
- Admission: Free
- Bring: Lawn chairs or blankets
🍦 New Bern Summer Festival
- When: Third weekend in July (July 18-20, 2025)
- What: Three-day celebration with carnival rides, food vendors, arts & crafts
- Location: West New Bern Recreation Complex
- Admission: $5 gate fee; ride tickets separate
- Family Friendly: Yes – specifically designed for families
Fall Festivals (September – November)
🎨 MumFest (see detailed section above)
- When: October 11-12, 2025
- Admission: Free
- Attendance: 60,000+
🍁 Bear Town Festival
- When: First Saturday in November (November 1, 2025)
- What: Smaller community festival celebrating New Bern’s “Bear Town” nickname
- Location: Downtown streets
- Admission: Free
- Highlights: Local vendors, food trucks, bear mascot appearances, kids’ games
🦃 Thanksgiving Harvest Market
- When: Week before Thanksgiving
- What: Special expanded farmers market with holiday goods
- Location: New Bern Farmers Market
- Admission: Free
🎃 Halloween Downtown Trick-or-Treat
- When: October 31, 2025 (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
- What: Safe trick-or-treating at downtown businesses
- Admission: Free
- Family Friendly: Yes – designed for children 12 and under
Winter Festivals (December – February)
🎄 Coastal Christmas Celebration
- When: First two weekends in December (Dec 6-7, 13-14, 2025)
- What: Holiday market, carriage rides, Christmas tree lighting, Santa visits
- Location: Downtown New Bern
- Admission: Free (carriage rides $10 per person)
🎅 Holiday Market & Craft Fair
- When: Multiple weekends in December
- What: Indoor craft fair with holiday gifts, decorations, baked goods
- Location: New Bern Riverfront Convention Center
- Admission: $3 suggested donation
⛵ New Year’s Eve Waterfront Celebration
- When: December 31, 2025
- What: Live music, food vendors, midnight fireworks
- Location: Union Point Park
- Admission: Free
- Family-Friendly: Yes – early “kids’ countdown” at 8 PM
🍀 St. Patrick’s Festival
- When: Saturday closest to March 17 (March 15, 2025)
- What: Irish music, food, parade through downtown
- Admission: Free
Events by Category: Find Your Perfect New Bern Festival
🎨 Arts & Crafts Fairs
- MumFest (October) – Premier juried arts festival
- Spring Craft Fair (April) – Local artisans showcase
- Holiday Market (December) – Gift-focused craft fair
🎵 Music Festivals & Concerts
- Alive After Five (Summer Thursdays) – Free concert series
- Blues & Brews Festival (September) – Craft beer and live blues
- River Jam Music Festival (June) – Multi-genre waterfront festival
🍔 Food & Drink Festivals
- New Bern BBQ Festival (May) – North Carolina BBQ competition
- Brewfest (September) – Craft beer tasting event
- Oyster Roast (March) – Coastal seafood celebration
- Farmers Market (Year-round, Saturdays) – Fresh local produce
👨👩👧 Family & Kids Events
- New Bern Summer Festival (July) – Carnival rides and games
- Halloween Downtown Trick-or-Treat (October)
- Easter Egg Hunt at Lawson Creek Park (April)
- Kids’ Day at the Park (June)
🏃 Sports & Recreation Events
- Neuse River Bridge Run (May)
- Dragon Boat Races (September)
- Cycling Classic (October)
💰 Free Events in New Bern
All of these major festivals offer FREE admission:
- MumFest
- Coastal Christmas Celebration
- Fourth of July Celebration
- Alive After Five concerts
- Bear Town Festival
- Halloween Downtown Trick-or-Treat
- St. Patrick’s Festival
- New Year’s Eve Waterfront Celebration
- Weekly Farmers Market (browsing free; purchases require payment)
MumFest Vendor Breakdown
What to expect from 200+ craft vendors
Why This Matters for Shoppers
- Over 40% of vendors specialize in jewelry, pottery, and fine art
- Expect diverse selections in top categories with multiple vendor options
- Smaller categories offer unique, specialty items with less competition
- Plan your route based on your shopping priorities
Practical Guide: Attending Festivals and Fairs in New Bern NC
Best Time to Visit New Bern for Festivals
October is peak festival season, anchored by MumFest. Mild weather (highs in the 70s) and fall foliage make it ideal for outdoor events.
Spring (April-May) offers pleasant temperatures and historic home tours that showcase New Bern’s colonial architecture.
Summer brings free concerts and waterfront celebrations, though expect heat and humidity (80s-90s).
Winter features cozy holiday markets and indoor events perfect for escaping cold weather.
Parking & Transportation
For Major Festivals (MumFest, Summer Festival):
- Downtown parking fills by 10 AM
- Free shuttle service from outer lots (West New Bern Recreation Complex)
- Paid parking at convention center ($5-10)
- Street parking free on Sundays
- Walking distance from most downtown hotels
For Smaller Events:
- Street parking usually available
- Union Point Park has dedicated lot (100 spaces)
- Bike racks at all major venues
- Uber/Lyft available
Where to Stay
Downtown Hotels (Walking Distance to Festivals):
- The Aerie Bed & Breakfast (0.3 miles from Union Point Park)
- DoubleTree by Hilton New Bern Riverfront (0.1 miles)
- Hampton Inn New Bern (0.8 miles)
Budget Options:
- Fairfield Inn & Suites (2 miles from downtown)
- Holiday Inn Express (1.5 miles)
Book 3-6 months ahead for MumFest weekend—hotels sell out early.
Where to Eat Before/After Festivals
Near Union Point Park:
- The Chelsea – Upscale American, waterfront views
- Baker’s Kitchen – Casual breakfast and lunch
- Morgan’s Tavern & Grill – Pub food and local beers
Downtown Historic District:
- Persimmons Waterfront Restaurant – Fine dining
- MJ’s Raw Bar & Grille – Seafood and oysters
- Bakers Kitchen – Sandwiches and pastries
- Christoph’s on the Water – Mediterranean cuisine
Pro tip: Make reservations for Saturday dinner during MumFest—restaurants get packed.
Weather Considerations
Spring/Fall: Layers recommended; mornings cool (50s-60s), afternoons warm (70s) Summer: Sunscreen, hat, water essential; afternoon thunderstorms possible Winter: Light jacket sufficient; rarely below 40°F
Rain Policy: Most outdoor festivals are rain-or-shine unless severe weather. Check event websites or Facebook pages for updates.
What to Bring to New Bern Festivals
Essentials Checklist:
- ✅ Cash (many vendors don’t take cards)
- ✅ Reusable water bottle
- ✅ Sunscreen and hat
- ✅ Comfortable walking shoes
- ✅ Small backpack or tote bag
- ✅ Phone charger/portable battery
- ✅ Blanket or lawn chairs (for concerts)
For Families:
- ✅ Stroller (most venues are stroller-friendly)
- ✅ Snacks for kids
- ✅ Baby wipes/hand sanitizer
- ✅ Sunshade or umbrella
Frequently Asked Questions: New Bern Festivals & Fairs
When is MumFest in New Bern? MumFest takes place the second full weekend in October every year. For 2025, that’s October 11-12. The festival runs Saturday 9 AM to 6 PM and Sunday 10 AM to 5 PM. It’s been held on this weekend since 1984, so you can plan years in advance.
Are there free fairs in New Bern, NC? Yes! Most major festivals in New Bern offer free admission, including MumFest, the Fourth of July Celebration, Coastal Christmas, Alive After Five concerts, and the weekly Farmers Market. You’ll only pay for food, drinks, and any items you purchase from vendors. A few specialty events like the Historic Homes Tour charge admission ($25-30).
What is the best family-friendly festival in New Bern? MumFest is the most popular family festival, with a dedicated kids’ zone featuring face painting, bounce houses, and hands-on crafts. The New Bern Summer Festival (July) specifically caters to families with carnival rides and games. For younger children, the Halloween Downtown Trick-or-Treat event is designed for safe, family-friendly fun.
Where can I find today’s events in New Bern? Check this page’s “Today’s Events” section (updated daily), the City of New Bern’s official events calendar at newbern-nc.org/events, or download the Visit New Bern app. You can also follow “Visit New Bern NC” on Facebook for same-day event updates and cancellations.
How do I get tickets for New Bern festivals? Most festivals (including MumFest) don’t require tickets—just show up! For events that do require registration or paid admission (like the Historic Homes Tour, Bridge Run, or some concerts), purchase tickets through the event’s official website or at Eventbrite.com. Same-day tickets are usually available at the venue entrance.
Is parking available for festivals in downtown New Bern? Yes, but parking fills quickly during major events like MumFest. Free street parking is available but limited. For big festivals, use the free shuttle service from West New Bern Recreation Complex. Paid parking ($5-10) is available at the Riverfront Convention Center. Arrive before 10 AM or consider walking/biking from nearby hotels.
What happens if a festival is cancelled due to weather? Most New Bern outdoor festivals are rain-or-shine unless there’s severe weather (thunderstorms, lightning, or high winds). Organizers typically announce cancellations 2-4 hours before the event on their Facebook pages and websites. MumFest has only been cancelled once in 40+ years due to a hurricane.
Are pets allowed at New Bern festivals? Pet policies vary by event. MumFest officially discourages pets due to large crowds, though service animals are always welcome. The weekly Farmers Market is dog-friendly. Smaller events like Alive After Five concerts typically allow leashed dogs. Check individual event websites for specific policies.
Can I bring alcohol to festivals in New Bern? No, outside alcohol is prohibited at all city-sponsored festivals. MumFest has designated beer and wine gardens where you can purchase drinks (21+ with ID required). Many other festivals have similar setups. Drinking outside these areas is not permitted per North Carolina ABC laws.
What’s the difference between MumFest and other New Bern fairs? MumFest is the largest and most established festival, focusing on juried arts and crafts with 300+ vendors. Other fairs tend to be smaller and more specialized—like the Summer Festival (carnival-style with rides), BBQ Festival (food competition), or Holiday Markets (seasonal gifts). MumFest is the premier annual event that attracts visitors from across the Southeast.
Seasonal Event Highlights: When to Visit
Spring in New Bern: Gardens & History
March through May brings blooming azaleas and the popular Historic Homes & Gardens Tour. This is the best season to experience New Bern’s colonial architecture and Southern gardens. The Neuse River Bridge Run (May) attracts runners from across the region, followed by a festive waterfront celebration.
Summer in New Bern: Waterfront Celebrations
June through August focuses on free outdoor entertainment. Alive After Five concerts happen every Thursday evening, providing a relaxed atmosphere for families and couples. The Fourth of July fireworks over the Neuse River draw 10,000+ spectators to Union Point Park. Summer is also peak season for the weekly Farmers Market.
Fall in New Bern: Festival Season Peak
September through November is festival prime time. MumFest dominates October, but you’ll also find the Blues & Brews Festival, Bear Town Festival, and Halloween events. Mild temperatures (60s-70s) and beautiful fall colors make outdoor activities especially enjoyable.
Winter in New Bern: Holiday Magic
December transforms downtown into a holiday wonderland with the Coastal Christmas Celebration. Carriage rides, tree lighting ceremonies, and holiday markets create a cozy small-town atmosphere. The New Year’s Eve Waterfront Celebration offers family-friendly festivities with an early countdown for kids.
Nearby Events & Destinations
Festivals in Nearby Coastal NC Towns
Beaufort, NC (30 minutes from New Bern)
- Beaufort Music Festival (May)
- Wooden Boat Show (September)
- Historic Homes Tour (June)
Morehead City, NC (35 minutes)
- Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament (June)
- Seafood Festival (October)
Wilmington, NC (90 minutes)
- Azalea Festival (April) – One of NC’s largest festivals
- Riverfest (October)
Jacksonville, NC (45 minutes)
- Freedom Festival (June)
- Onslow County Fair (September)
Day Trip Itinerary: New Bern Festival + Coastal Exploration
Morning: Attend New Bern Farmers Market or festival event (8 AM – 12 PM) Lunch: Seafood at waterfront restaurant in downtown New Bern Afternoon: Drive to Atlantic Beach (45 minutes) or Fort Macon State Park Evening: Return for festival evening activities or dinner in historic district
Plan Your Visit: New Bern Festival Resources
Official Tourism Information:
- Visit New Bern NC: visitnewbern.com
- New Bern Historical Society: newbernhistorical.org
- City of New Bern Events: newbern-nc.org/events
Event-Specific Websites:
- MumFest: mumfest.com
- Farmers Market: newbernfarmersmarket.com
- Historic Homes Tour: newbernpreservation.com
Social Media for Event Updates:
- Facebook: @VisitNewBernNC
- Instagram: @visitnewbernnc
- Twitter: @VisitNewBernNC
Emergency & Visitor Services:
- New Bern Police (non-emergency): (252) 672-4111
- CarolinaEast Medical Center: (252) 633-8111
- Visitor Center: 203 S Front St (open Monday-Saturday)
Experience the best of coastal North Carolina culture at festivals and fairs in New Bern NC. From the legendary MumFest drawing 60,000 visitors each October to intimate seasonal celebrations year-round, New Bern offers authentic Southern hospitality and small-town charm. Check this calendar regularly for the latest fair in New Bern NC, bookmark it for future visits, and join locals and travelers celebrating the region’s rich history, arts, and community spirit.
Ready to experience New Bern’s festivals? Start planning your visit today—and don’t forget to check our “Today’s Events” section at the top of this page for current happenings!
This guide to festivals and fairs in New Bern, NC is updated regularly. Event dates, times, and details are subject to change by organizers. Always verify information on official event websites before traveling. Last verified: October 2025.
