Summer is just around the corner, and New Bern is set for a jam-packed schedule of activities and events. Here are three of our cool favorites to celebrate the season.

Cool Favorite #1

Don’t Stop Believin… Footloose on the Neuse is back for another outstanding round of performances! The concert series kicks off Memorial Day Weekend on Friday, May 23, with the Journey tribute band, Trial by Fire. The band takes the stage at 7:30 p.m. at Union Point Park, and admission is free. Be sure to bring your own lawn chairs or blanket; Any Way You Want It. For the complete Footloose on the Neuse lineup, including The Stranger, a tribute band to Billy Joel, click here.

Cool Favorite #2

Summertime can mean many things to our hometown, however one event always seems to stand out (or hopefully stand up to the water). The Great Trent River Raft Race is set for Saturday, June 7, so you need to be set to have an absolute blast! A variety of races, from classic to peddle to paddle, challenge fun-loving participants to build the vessel to win. The category of “anything that floats” always brings out the most amazing creations. In addition to the races, you will enjoy food, games, live entertainment and family-friendly fun. For all the details, click the race’s Facebook page here.

Cool Favorite #3

Culture, history, classical music. Is there a more beautiful listening experience? On Thursday, June 12, Tryon Palace is the backdrop for the North Carolina Symphony performance of Beethoven’s Fifth. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. and tickets are free! Make sure to bring along your friends and family, along with your own lawn chairs.

There is so much more to enjoy over the warmer months in New Bern. Be sure to check out Visit New Bern for a complete list of activities and events!

By Caramia Valentin, The Sun Journal

February 3, 2025

Representatives from the Craven County Tourism Development Authority, Tryon Palace and Weyerhaeuser presented a $5,000 check from the Trail to Tryon proceeds to the American Legion Post 539 in New Bern.

The 2024 Trail to Tryon Race on Nov. 9 attracted around 460 participants who traveled through New Bern in a half marathon, 10K or 5K, said Seth Plank, a portfolio analyst for Weyerhaeuser.

Since its inception in 2022, Weyerhaeuser has been the presenting sponsor for the race, along with many other sponsors.

Melissa Riggle, executive director for the TDA, said partners like Weyerhaeuser contributed to the success of Trail to Tryon.

“We’ve had great partners with Weyerhaeuser and Tryon Palace and all of our other sponsors, Chad Sittig Insurance Agency, Trader Construction,” Riggle said. “It has just really come to be this great annual event, so in our third year, we are super proud to present proceeds to our beneficiaries, who have been doing great work in this region for our local veterans.

“We want to do everything we can to support them, and we’re so proud that this can do that year after year.”

American Legion Commander Liz Hartman and American Legion representative Dave Nelson were at Tryon Palace recently to receive the check on behalf of the organization.

Hartman said funds from Trail to Tryon help the American Legion provide financial assistance to veterans in the form of rent payments, car payments and grocery gift cards. Additionally, the funds help send area children to Americanism programs to learn about the United States Constitution and American history.

“I think a lot of times when you see these checks, you think it’s just money, but I want everyone to realize that the $5,000, that’s essentially from Weyerhaeuser, it’s literally changing lives in the community,” Hartman said, during the presentation. “For the American Legion, this isn’t just money, this is people’s lives that Weyerhaeuser has changed.”

Plank was involved in Trail to Tryon as a participant in the first two years but volunteered to help on race day and speak at the start of the race. 

“The event was great, and I was happy to help,” Plank said. “On behalf of Weyerhaeuser, it’s been a great honor to be the presenting sponsor and help out the last few years.”

This year, Trail to Tryon is scheduled for Dec. 6 in New Bern. Riggle said the new festive date offers a run experience coupled with the holiday festivities New Bern has to offer.

Participants can choose between a half marathon, 10K or 5K. The half marathon costs $65 to enter, the 10K costs $45 and the 5K costs $30.

New Bern has an amazing community of Veterans from all branches of service. We appreciate all that they have done for our country and our town. This Veterans Day, we have two special events to show our appreciation.

Race to the Finish

Saturday, November 11 is the Second Annual Trail to Tryon, a foot race through New Bern’s historic downtown and riverfront. Participants have the choice of running or walking a 5K, 10K or half-marathon. In addition to the in-person events, you can join the fun virtually for any of the races. Weyerhaeuser is proud to again serve as the presenting sponsor, with a portion of the event proceeds benefitting American Legion Post 539. Festivities begin at 7 a.m. at Tryon Palace, with a post-celebration from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the N.C. History Center, full of fun, prizes and excitement. For more details, click here.

March to the Finish

Now in its fourth year, the Annual March for the 22 takes place on Veterans Day with the option of a 22-mile, 22-kilometer or two-kilometer walk route. The finish line for all distances is at Union Point Park. The event is intentional in that it is a walk, so participants are doing it together to build friendships and support systems. Tickets to participate are only $22. The number 22 is very significant to the Veteran community, as an average of 22 commit suicide each day. American Legion Post 539 utilizes proceeds from ticket sales and sponsorships to provide financial support and other services to Veterans throughout Craven County. For more details, click here.

While these two events support our area Veterans, there is more we can all do throughout the year. Let’s show our appreciation of what they have done for us, so we have the freedom to do all the things we do.

August is going to be another hot month in New Bern, and we are not just referring to the weather. Our hometown has a jam-packed calendar of events. Here are three, super-hot stand-outs to enjoy:

Music All Around

Three Footloose on the Neuse performances for the City of New Bern Parks and Recreation Department’s outdoor concert series are on tap for the month (and a day). On August 11, a tribute band to Fleetwood Mac, Landslide, is set to take the stage. On August 25, a tribute band of Chicago songs, Chicago Rewind, performs. The series kicks off Labor Day Weekend on September 1 in style with Riggsbee Road, an all-female bluegrass band out of Raleigh. Each concert takes place on these select Friday dates, beginning 6:30 p.m. at Union Point Park. Be sure to bring your lawn chairs or picnic blanket! For the full schedule, click here.

Just Say Ahh

If you want to beat the heat and truly cool off, set up a day of ultimate relaxation at Rinnova Spa & Wellness Center at the New Bern Aesthetic Center. Located in West New Bern, the spa boasts an extensive menu of services, from facials and massages to nail care. For an extra treat, schedule the float pad to decompress or the salt facial for an enhanced glow. To schedule an appointment, click here.

Look Back in Time

Tryon Palace is our favorite place for history. A wonderful exhibit at the North Carolina History Center at the Palace, “Through the Looking Glass: A Journey with the Storytellers,” celebrates the 100th Anniversary of the New Bern Historical Society. Visitors will enjoy stories of individuals and events of the past to present day. Presented with a combination of photos, artifacts and narration, you will truly take a look back in time. For more information, click here.

In addition to these three ideas, there are tons more of enjoyment awaiting you. Click here for Visit New Bern’s calendar of events.

Every year as February 14 rolls around, the impending day can bring about a plethora of emotions. Whether you are celebrating Galentine’s Day, Valentine’s Day or simply that it is a Tuesday, here are some great ways to spend the day in New Bern.

Itinerary One – For the Outdoor Enthusiast

If I had to dream up a perfect day, it would always begin with a late-morning walk along the riverfront. Our Riverwalk showcases the convergence of the Trent and Neuse rivers, with spectacular stopping points along the way. Be sure to capture a photo at the Craven County Convention Center with the water and marina as your backdrop. From there, enjoy a picnic lunch at Union Point Park. Afterward, stop by the Cub House for a location map of the downtown bears to find as many as you can. Extra points for taking selfies with at least eight of them! To cap off the day, enjoy a yummy Winter Mule during happy hour at Cypress Hall. If the weather cooperates, you can sit by the open windows to enjoy the fresh air and people-watching.

Itinerary Two – For the History Buff

Begin your “Day in History” with a visit to the New Bern Historical Society. Here, you will greatly expand your knowledge about our city from its founding in 1710 to 300 years later, along with the individuals who have played a significant role in shaping our city. Once you have worked up an appetite, enjoy a delicious lunch at Morgan’s Tavern & Grill, housed in a building that dates back to the early 1900s. After your hunger is satiated, take a leisurely walk down Pollock Street to Tryon Palace, North Carolina’s first state capitol building. Plan to spend a few hours here, and make sure to visit the gardens and surrounding historical buildings. For details and tickets, click here.

Itinerary Three – For the Middle Streeter

New Bern has a variety of fabulous boutiques, art galleries and restaurants to experience as you entice the shopper in you. Start your morning with a stop at Baker’s Kitchen on Middle Street, the cafe where the locals eat. Afterward, take a short stroll down Middle to Bank of the Arts for breathtaking art masterpieces. Then, head back down south for an afternoon of shopping at an array of shops, including Surf, Wind and Fire, Blue Magnolia and The Birthplace of Pepsi Store. Cap off the day with a delicious meal at The Chelsea. One piece of advice: do not pass up dessert!

No matter how you spend this Valentine’s Day (or any day) in New Bern, you are sure to love it as much as I do!

New Bern Sun Journal

By Trevor Dunnell, January 17, 2023

Not knowing how many participants would sign up for the first Trail to Tryon 5K, 10K and half marathon, the event ran away with success, raising $2,000 the local American Legion Post 539.

The newly formed Craven County Tourism Development Authority’s Sports and Events Committee hosted Trail to Tryon Nov. 12-15 and was the committee’s inaugural event. The committee’s focus is to identify opportunities for sports-leisure events in Craven County.

Along with the $2,000 raised, Craven County Tourism executive director Melissa Riggle said over 250 runners signed up for the event as the committee had to cap the number of participants. Without knowing what to expect, the group prepared for between 75-150 runners.

“We are excited to start off the new year on such a positive note,” Riggle said. “The success was beyond what we had anticipated and from that we were able to take a portion of the proceeds and give it to a local organization. Our intent is to create visibility and sports tourism opportunities and a destination for sports in our community.”

New Bern has so much to see and do for all ages. Whether you want to take in some salt air, learn more about history or increase the laughter ratio, it is a done deal close by! Here are three recommendations of activities over the course of the weekend of July 15-17 for the entire family to enjoy.

Family Time #1 – Friday

This time together requires a car ride for 36 miles; perhaps you play “I spy” on the way! The journey takes you to Fort Macon State Park in Atlantic Beach, at the tip of Bogue Banks. The fort is restored from the Civil War era, with tons of interesting history within five walls of brick and stone. Twenty-six rooms, nature trails and more will keep your pirate lovers and history buffs well-entertained. For more information about Atlantic Beach, click here.

Family Time #2 – Saturday

If you read this blog series often, you know I love visiting Tryon Palace. On Saturday, July 16, we have the added bonus of giveaways and family activities while exploring the galleries and gardens. Puppet shows, tours of the Pepsi Portal to History and Revolutionary War soldier reenactments make for an entertaining day. While the palace and gardens are simply spectacular on their own, this special day creates additional excitement about the first state capitol building’s heritage. More details here.

Family Time #3 – Sunday

If you are like me and remember the colorful story of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, be sure to catch the performance of Willy Wonka Jr. at the New Bern Civic Theatre. Roald Dahl’s fantasy adventure is brought to life with some slight differences from the movie. The premise remains the same, in that candy manufacturer Willy Wonka stages a contest by hiding golden tickets in five of his yummy candy bars. From there, magical chaos ensues. Performances are July 15-17 and 22-24. Tickets may be purchased here.

Time with your family may not always be perfect, but it is indeed special. These three activities will definitely make the time also memorable!

New Bern is rich with history, having been founded in 1710 and serving as the state’s first capital. In April, we have the opportunity to relive some of New Bern’s past while appreciating what those before us experienced. Here are three upcoming events to enjoy, no matter what your age.

Relive the Past #1 – Tour Historical Homes

You are in for a treat on April 8 and 9, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The 2022 Heritage Homes Tour gains you access into historical homes in the downtown area, ranging from 19th century to renovated residences. Each home represents the amazing architecture of New Bern’s history and its future. But wait; there’s more! This same weekend, your ticket also allows you free admission to the Tryon Palace Gardens. There, you will enjoy the mesmerizing beauty of a variety of blooms, from tulips to irises to roses. Get tickets here.

Relive the Past #2 – Play Dress Up

At Tryon Palace that same weekend, your kids can experience how youngsters would have dressed and lived during the time of George Washington and Governor Tryon in Colonial America. “Colonial for a Day” takes place on Saturday, April 9, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.  Designed for those seven to 10 years (with an accompanying adult), participants will don 18th century attire, learn more what children’s chores were like and partake in some of the crafts they would have been expected to know. Call 252-639-3524 to reserve a spot.

Relive the Past #3 – Duel to the Finish

The real story behind one of New Bern’s most compelling historic stories is now brought to life. John Stanly accused Richard Dobbs Spaight of misdeeds and more, culminating in a duel to the finish. This historic tale will be brought to life through original dialogue and music, from the signing of the Constitution to the dispute that would lead these bitter rivals to a fight on the field of honor. “Honour, The Musical” is presented by the North Carolina History Theater in partnership with Craven Community College and New Bern Historical Society. Performances run the last two weekends at the college’s Orringer Hall. Tickets available here.

With New Bern’s prominence in North Carolina’s and the country’s history, you can relive the past now and in the future!

While Tryon Palace has special activities throughout the year, March is a beautiful time to enjoy the palace and gardens. The weather is cool, the days are sunny and the flowers are blooming. Here are three special events to “march” to this month.

The Other Set of Stairs

When you think of the residents of Tryon Palace in historical times, you likely think of Governors and their families who called the building home. But that is only one side of the story. Every Thursday in March at 10:30 a.m., you can tour the palace, stables and kitchen to learn about the other stairs. To keep the estate running, there was a multitude of staff who cooked the food, cared for the horses, emptied the chamber pots (yikes) and anything else to make a life of luxury possible. “Life on the Lesser Stairs” sheds light on the individuals who also called the palace home, but whose lives were anything but luxurious. Space is limited; get more details here.

A Garden in Bloom

For the palace’s garden lecture series on March 12, Jennifer Knight, community gardener and owner of Knightscapes Enterprises, and Hadley Cheris, Tryon Palace Gardens and Greenhouse Manager, cohost “Heirloom Vegetables for Eastern North Carolina.” The lecture will focus on heirloom vegetables and edible plants best adapted to face the weather challenges of Eastern North Carolina. You will also get a sneak peek of the plants available at the Spring Plant Sale. The lecture begins at the North Carolina History Center at 10:30 a.m.

Feast for Your Eyes

Be ready to roll up your sleeves on Saturday, March 26. That is the date for “Winterfeast: Spring Edition,” a new twist to Tryon Palace’s traditional event held annually in January. Taking place on the South Lawn, the event is sure to please, with a feast of oysters, shrimp and grits, jambalaya, chowder, pig roast and sides. And, there will be live music by North Carolina’s Molasses Creek to enjoy during your feasting. The event begins at 6:30 p.m. Get tickets here.

March is a wonderful time to enjoy the sights and sounds of Tryon Palace and Gardens. March on over there!