MumFest Returns to Historic Downtown New Bern October 10–11

NEW BERN, N.C. — Fall fun is returning to Downtown New Bern! MumFest, New Bern’s award-winning annual festival, returns October 10–11, 2026, bringing two days of live music, food, shopping, entertainment and family fun to the heart of historic downtown.

Presented by Swiss Bear, Riverside Automotive Group and the City of New Bern, MumFest will feature more than 250 vendors showcasing handmade arts and crafts, local businesses, nonprofits and commercial exhibitors. Festivalgoers can also enjoy a wide variety of food trucks while exploring the retailers and restaurants that Downtown New Bern has to offer.

“MumFest is a really special time in Downtown New Bern,” said Karen Sullivan, Executive Director of Swiss Bear. “It's a big celebration of our city, the people who live here, and the businesses that make it so great. Whether you love music, food, rides, or just hanging out with friends and family, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”

Music will take center stage throughout MumFest, with a standout Saturday lineup on the waterfront at the North Carolina Education Lottery Music Stage. Sam Morrow takes the stage at 3:30 p.m., followed by The Wilder Blue at 6:30 p.m., bringing two nationally recognized acts to Downtown New Bern for the weekend. Saturday's lineup also features Biscuits & Gravy and Packhouse, while Sunday's live music includes local favorites The Git Down, The Bonafides, Hoff’n’Finch, and Big Jim Kohler. With music filling the downtown streets throughout the weekend, MumFest offers something for every music lover.

Thrill-seekers won't want to miss the Protown BMX Stunt Show and Autograph Sessions, while the Purina Incredible Dog Team will return with its high-energy performances. Law Enforcement K9 Demonstrations and Craven Chaos Roller Derby will add even more action to the weekend.

Families can explore the new MumFest KidsZone, featuring all-day activities, arts and crafts, story time and more. Throughout the festival, visitors will also encounter street entertainment from Mark Lippard, along with performances by local musicians, dancers, theater groups and choruses.

Additional attractions include the Riverside Auto and RV Show, the North Carolina Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association Helicopter Display, the MumFest Mum Arch and Mum Display, and demonstrations from the City of New Bern Electric Department. The New Bern Fire & Rescue Obstacle Course and Dunking Booth will offer more fun at the Fireman’s Museum.

“After last year’s cancellation due to weather, we are especially excited to welcome MumFest back to Downtown New Bern. This event is truly a team effort, and I’m grateful to our City employees and Swiss Bear for the tremendous work and coordination that make it possible. MumFest brings our community, businesses and visitors together—and in New Bern, everything comes together here,” shared Foster Hughes, City of New Bern City Manager.

MumFest also provides an opportunity to experience the restaurants, shops and attractions that make Downtown New Bern a destination year-round. When MumFest began, its purpose was to bring people back downtown, showcase our locally owned businesses, and celebrate the unique character of our historic district. That mission remains at the heart of the festival today. The funds raised through MumFest by Swiss Bear are reinvested into Downtown New Bern to support downtown development, revitalization and projects that strengthen the district for businesses, residents and visitors. When people come to MumFest, they aren't just attending a festival. They’re helping invest in the future of Downtown New Bern.

“MumFest is a wonderful opportunity to experience everything that makes Downtown New Bern special,” said Sullivan. “Our historic streets, locally owned businesses, and community come together to create an experience you can't find anywhere else. We invite everyone to come downtown, explore, stay a while, and enjoy MumFest with us.”

For the complete entertainment schedule, vendor information, shuttle schedules, and event updates, visit MumFest.com or follow MumFest on social media.

MumFest is a city-sponsored event produced by Swiss Bear, Inc. and proudly presented by Riverside Automotive Group, now in its eighth year as Title Sponsor, along with North Carolina Education Lottery, WITN, Curtis Media, CarolinaEast Health System, T-Fiber, and City of New Bern.