Every month of the year, I fall in love with New Bern even more. As we enter the “shady” side of the 2020s (2026), here are three of my top reasons why our town is my favorite.

Riverfront Revelry

New Bern is ideally situated at the convergence of two rivers, Trent and Neuse. Situated where the two rivers meet is the unofficial community hub for the town, Union Point Park. The park is the site for many events and activities, including Footloose of the Neuse, Mumfest and The Great Trent River Raft Race. On the off chance an event isn’t going on, the park is the perfect place to meet a friend for a walk, enjoy a family picnic or take in the waterfront’s beauty. Be sure to take time to read the dedication bricks along the way, and check out the Red Spider Lily sculpture in front of the Convention Center!

Bear with Us

Did you know New Bern was named after Bern, Switzerland, and that the word translates to bears? Our hometown prides itself by promoting the Bern connection with over 90 themed bears situated throughout the town. With fantastic names such as Flag Bearer at City Hall and Captain Black Bear’d at the Courtyard by Marriott, the creativity is “beary” amazing! You can find one of the fiberglass bears in our destination community, appropriately named Welcome Home Bear, at Comet West New Bern apartments! If you’re looking for a fun scavenger hunt type of activity, pick up a map of the bear locations at the Cub House Visitor Center or click here.

It’s History

Throughout New Bern’s downtown, you will often be reminded of its 300-plus years of history. Beautiful Victorian, Italianate, Greek Revival, Federalist and Georgian architecture showcase some of the most exquisite homes and buildings. For more information and a self-guided walking tour, click here. If you want to enjoy a stay in a historic home, check into one of the charming bed-and-breakfasts located in downtown. I even refer to Pollock Street as the BnB row, with Aerie, Hanna House, Benjamin Ellis House and The Jarvis at 220.

While these are just three reasons I love New Bern, there are so many more. Why don’t you set a date to spend some time in the town that’s known as the place where it all comes together? In my opinion, that’s being a little humble!

When the temperature heats up in New Bern, you know it’s time to have a summer full of fun! Here are some ideas to enjoy the longer days with lots of sizzlin’ excitement.

Sizzlin’ Idea #1

If you are a 70s and 80s rock-and-roll aficionado, you are going to be in dreamland over the next several weeks. That’s because the Footloose on the Neuse concert series has saved some of the best for last, with tribute bands of our favorite rock groups taking the stage at Union Point Park. First up is Tell Me Lies, a Fleetwood Mac Experience, on Friday, July 18. The next month, On the Border, an Eagles tribute band, performs on Friday, August 8. The series wraps up on Friday, August 29, with Rev On, a Foreigner Experience. Each performance begins at 7:30 p.m., and admission is free. Be sure to bring your portable chairs or blanket. Food and beverages are available for purchase.

Sizzlin’ Idea #2

When you need a break from the heat, why not take in a play in an air-conditioned theatre? Running the last two weekends in July, Around the World in 80 Days will be performed at New Bern Civic Theatre. The Jules Verne classic is set in the 1870s and tells the story of Phileas Fogg’s trip around the world to win a bet. The play is performed by the Saax Bradbury Teen Players, and tickets begin from $15; details here. Then over the first two weekends in August, Death of a Salesman is being performed by the RiverTowne Players. Set in the 50s, Arthur Miller’s famous play tells the story of traveling salesman Willy Loman as he deals with strained relationships in his family and career. The play runs Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. Tickets are $20 and may be purchased here.

Sizzlin’ Idea #3

Looking for a relaxing day to take in a movie, or three (or more)? The Seventh Annual North Carolina Film Festival is set for Saturday, August 2, beginning at 10 a.m. at New Bern Civic Theatre. An all-day pass of $25 grants you access for a day of local, national and international short films. Tickets may be purchased here.

These are just a few ideas to enjoy the plethora of summer activities in our favorite hometown. For more ideas, check out visitnewbern.com.

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!

The new year seems to be the perfect time to think about what we love about New Bern. Here are three of my favorite things that offer the best of our spectacular hometown.

Favorite Thing #1 – Downtown

Streetscapes and storefronts that resemble a Hallmark town? In our downtown, you will feel like someone from the big city coming back to his/her hometown without the hassle of being cast in the latest movie. Quaint cafes, art galleries, locally owned shops and sweet (store) sensations await you here. Be sure to check out Baker’s Kitchen, Bear City Fudge, Next Chapter Books and Art, Cypress Hall, Mitchell Hardware and so many more wonderful spaces and places to explore.

Favorite Thing #2 – Town Bears

North Carolina is known for its bears (the real kind), yet New Bern is most known for its friendly bears (the plaster kind). Over 90 bears are out of hibernation around the area, each themed to compliment the bear’s sponsor. From “Greenzly” at Union Point Park to “Flag Bearer” at City Hall to one of the newest bears, “Welcome Home Bear” at Comet West New Bern Apartments, these creatures are fun to hunt down. For a complete list and map of locations, you can pick up one in person at the Cub House Visitor Center or click here.

Favorite Thing #3 – Town Events

You may first think of New Bern as a friendly, lovely and charming town, all of which are true. However, our town’s true colors beautifully show during the plethora of events we enjoy throughout the year. An array of offerings, including Plein Air Art Festival, Footloose on the Neuse Summer Concert Series, MumFest and Beary Merry Christmas are just some of our signature annual events. Add in the monthly ArtWalk, July Fourth Celebration and Halloween festivities, and your calendar is packed before you know it. Check out Visit New Bern’s website for an up-to-date list of activities.

In New Bern, your list of favorite things may likely include at least one of the above-mentioned. However, there is so much to choose from, the “few” should be changed to “many” things!

Ho, ho, ho! The holiday season is upon us, and New Bern is the place for a Beary Merry Christmas! If you enjoy celebrating the magic of the season, you will find it in our hometown, with music, movies, snow, shopping and gallons of hot cocoa! While there are lots of activities and events for you and your family to enjoy, here are a few of my all-time favorites.

Light Up the Park

Once your Thanksgiving meal has settled, it’s time to come on down to the annual Community Christmas Tree Lighting on Friday, November 29! The block party begins at 4 p.m. on Middle Street, with a DJ, games, axe throwing, aerial circus performances, crafts, face painting and more. The tree lighting takes place at Union Point Park at 5:45 p.m., with Santa arriving soon after. The party continues with entertainment until 8:30 p.m. This is a wonderful way to kick off the holidays.

Light Up the Scene

On Friday, December 13, the windows come alive! New Bern’s Live Window Display takes place 6 – 8 p.m. Will it be a repeat for 2023’s first-place winner Twice as Nice? Bring out the entire family for an evening of window shopping while enjoying the sights of the season. Grab dinner either before or after your stroll at New Bern’s extensive restaurant offerings, including Morgan’s Tavern, Captain Ratty’s or Cypress Hall.

Light Up the Town

The splendor of the season continues throughout December. On Thursday evenings, stores will be open late, so you have extra time to find that special gift, all with festive entertainment. Visits with Santa provide the perfect opportunity to capture memories of your child’s wish list. Santa’s House is a magical place to see where the “Red One” lives this time of year. Definitely do not miss the chance for a carriage ride to enjoy the twinkling, colorful lights!

The holiday season is truly enchanting in New Bern. Be sure to enjoy all these delights (and more) that we have to light up your life! For more information, check out Visit New Bern.

We all know it is hot during the summer months in our hometown. It’s also hot with fun activities to enjoy. Here are a few recommendations to add to your calendar.

On Canvas

We love our art in New Bern! If you are new to the area or are in town visiting, be sure to check out ArtWalk on Friday, July 12. Downtown is resplendent with all the shops, galleries and restaurants welcoming you to an art block party. Make sure to stop by the Bank of the Arts on Middle Street, which is showcasing the 2024 National Juried Exhibition. For more information, click here.

On Stage

New Bern Civic Theatre is presenting two entertaining performances over the next couple of months. In July, the Teens take over with Disney’s Camp Rock: The Musical. The show centers around a summer musical camp that experiences a camp rival across the lake. You will find yourself cheering on Camp Rock, and the songs will likely last in your head long after the show is over. Performances run July 19 – 21 and July 26 – 28. For tickets, click here.

In August, one of my favorite Shakespearean plays, Twelfth Night, hits the stage. The comedic play is set for performances at the New Bern Civic Theatre. With false identities and unrequited love, this romp will surely bring on laughs. Performances run August 23 – 25 and August 30 – September 1. For details and tickets, click here.

On Mic

Footloose on the Neuse is raring with fantastic performances in July and August. First up, a Tribute to Fleetwood Mac band is set to take the stage on Friday, July 12. Next, a tribute band to the Eagles will perform on Friday, August 9. You should “Go your own way” and “take it easy” by attending both events at Union Point Park. For the complete Footloose on the Neuse lineup, click here.

For the listing of all activities and events over the summer, check out visitnewbern.com.

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.

Summertime in New Bern means kids are out of school, vacation time and lots of fun activities for all. Here are three amazing events coming up in June in our hometown.

June Jolly #1

Our favorite summer concert series is back! On Friday, June 9, grab a blanket or chairs and bring the family out for Footloose on the Neuse to kick off the weekend. The headliner is Rivermist, a classic rock, rhythm and blues band well-known throughout North Carolina. Two weeks later, Trial by Fire, a Journey tribute band, performs on June 23. Both performances are at 6:30 p.m., and pets are allowed as long as they are leashed. Food trucks will be on hand for goodies and beverages. Special shout-out to New Bern Parks and Recreation Department for sponsoring these free concerts. For a complete schedule of the series performances, click here.

June Jolly #2

Looking for a distinctive night out, complete with delectable food and libations? We have the perfect event for you at the North Carolina History Center. Chef’s Feast, being held on June 22, will showcase a decadent array of local signature dishes from the area’s most celebrated chefs, including Cork Wine Bar & Bistro, Flavor Hills, The Flame, Sara’s Big Apple, Broad Street Takeout, Bistro 252 and Shortway Brewing Co. In addition to the gastro amazement, guests will enjoy live entertainment, along with live and silent auctions. Proceeds benefit the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina. For tickets, click here.

June Jolly #3

The Great Trent River Raft Race is set for Saturday, June 24, at Union Point Park. With a variety of races and categories to enter, there is sure to be the right fit for you and your team. Basically, if it floats, you can race it! If you prefer to keep dry, come out to cheer on your favorites. Either way, you will enjoy live entertainment, food, beverages and lots of activities. For more information, click here.

June is set to be a fantastic month to be in New Bern to get your jollies! Come join the fun!

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!