New Bern Kid Friendly Events - 2026 Schedule

Enjoy an extra evening of trick-or-treating and Halloween fun at this Atlantic Beach event that provides a safe and convenient way for the Crystal Coast’s youngest visitors to stock up on their candy supply. The Spooky Seas Trunk or Treat is an annual celebration that features plenty of goodies to go around, as well as a wealth of activities that kids of all ages will adore.

There’s plenty of Halloween-themed fun at this event that allows trick-or-treaters to get a jump start on their candy collection without ever leaving the Crystal Coast. The Trunk or Treat Emerald Isle celebration features a wealth of activities and enticements for all ages, including food, games, and lots of candy that can be enjoyed in a safe and community-oriented environment in the heart of this coastal beach town.

Crystal Coast visitors don’t have to venture too far to enjoy a little bit of Halloween fun, thanks to this annual event that provides trick-or-treating in a safe and entertaining environment. The Trunk or Treat Atlantic Beach event is a free and kid-friendly celebration that features a wealth of food, games, and plenty of candy to go around.

Come explore a unique and picturesque corner of the Crystal Coast with this grand event that celebrates all the activities and fun of the fall season. The Town of Cape Carteret Fall Festival features a myriad of food, activities, and entertainment for visitors of all ages, and the free festival is a great opportunity to uncover this scenic town that’s located just a shell’s throw away from the Emerald Isle coastline.

With tons of games, food, fun, and attractions for visitors of all ages, the Newport Halloween Hootenanny is an annual event that can’t be missed. Held on Halloween night, this event is a community-wide celebration of the season, with lots of fun, food, and candy to go around all evening long.

Take advantage of the temperate spring weather and uncrowded shorelines to discover the wealth of wildlife that calls this coastal North Carolina region home. The Bird Hike at Fort Macon is a fun and engaging opportunity to explore one of the Crystal Coast’s most renowned landmarks while spotting a myriad of local and migrating birds that flock to this coastal destination.

Shucktoberfest is an annual fall food-and-drink celebration hosted by Beaufort Wine & Food that highlights the Crystal Coast’s rich seafood heritage, with a special focus on North Carolina oysters and coastal cuisine. Held in Beaufort during the autumn oyster season, the event brings together seafood lovers, local chefs, oyster growers, beverage vendors, and visitors for a weekend dedicated to great food, live entertainment, and coastal hospitality.

The annual Veterans Day Parade in Morehead City is a time-honored tradition that honors the servicemen and women who have served their country. Located in the heart of the downtown area, and free and open to the public, this annual celebration is an event that visitors and locals alike won’t soon forget.

Come and get a big head start on your holiday shopping at this pre-Thanksgiving event that shines a spotlight on the many local vendors, artists, and craftspeople who call the Crystal Coast area home. The Mistletoe Magic Holiday Gift Show is renowned as one of the biggest local shopping events of the year, and it’s a great venue for folks to uncover all the talent and goodies that Eastern North Carolina has to offer.

The Beaufort Pirate Invasion is one of coastal North Carolina’s most popular history-themed festivals, transforming the waterfront town of Beaufort into a lively seaport filled with pirates, soldiers, merchants, and colonial-era characters. Held annually in downtown Beaufort, the event celebrates the town’s rich maritime heritage and commemorates the historic Spanish attack on Beaufort in 1747, as well as the region’s connections to the legendary pirate Blackbeard and other seafaring figures.

The Holiday Show is an annual seasonal art exhibition and sale presented by the Arts Council of Carteret County, showcasing a wide variety of handmade artwork, crafts, and unique gift items created by local and regional artists. Held each holiday season at the Arts Council’s gallery in Morehead City, the event provides visitors with an opportunity to explore one-of-a-kind pieces while supporting the vibrant arts community of North Carolina’s Crystal Coast.

The Holiday Show is an annual seasonal art exhibition and sale presented by the Arts Council of Carteret County, showcasing a wide variety of handmade artwork, crafts, and unique gift items created by local and regional artists. Held each holiday season at the Arts Council’s gallery in Morehead City, the event provides visitors with an opportunity to explore one-of-a-kind pieces while supporting the vibrant arts community of North Carolina’s Crystal Coast.

Celebrate the magic of the holiday season and the rich traditions of Down East North Carolina at the annual Gallery of Trees Lighting & Reception at the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum & Heritage Center on Harkers Island. This festive community gathering marks the opening of the museum's beloved Gallery of Trees exhibition, bringing together local families, organizations, and visitors for an evening of holiday cheer, beautiful decorations, and coastal heritage.

Get a jump start on your holiday shopping while enjoying an inviting and relaxed atmosphere that is miles away from ordinary at the Jumble Sale at the Beaufort Historic Site. This annual sale that takes place around Thanksgiving is the perfect cure to the Black Friday blues, and offers a wealth of locally made, handcrafted, and wholly unique goodies and presents that can’t be found anywhere else, and which will truly add a dose of local flavor to your holiday gift giving.

The Holiday Show is an annual seasonal art exhibition and sale presented by the Arts Council of Carteret County, showcasing a wide variety of handmade artwork, crafts, and unique gift items created by local and regional artists. Held each holiday season at the Arts Council’s gallery in Morehead City, the event provides visitors with an opportunity to explore one-of-a-kind pieces while supporting the vibrant arts community of North Carolina’s Crystal Coast.

Celebrating more than 20 years, the Emerald Isle Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting is a favorite wintertime event for visitors and locals alike that provides a fun and unforgettable way to ring in the season. Held in the heart of town, and featuring a line of floats that capture both the holiday and the coastal spirit, this annual parade and celebration will make everyone want to celebrate the holidays, Emerald Isle style.

The Core Sound Waterfowl Museum Store’s Christmas Market presents a unique opportunity for Crystal Coast visitors to get a jump start on their holiday shopping while exploring the wealth of talented artists and craftsmen who call the eastern North Carolina region home. Free to the public and featuring a myriad of local vendors, this event is a must for anyone who wants to enjoy a little local holiday shopping in style.

The Holiday Show is an annual seasonal art exhibition and sale presented by the Arts Council of Carteret County, showcasing a wide variety of handmade artwork, crafts, and unique gift items created by local and regional artists. Held each holiday season at the Arts Council’s gallery in Morehead City, the event provides visitors with an opportunity to explore one-of-a-kind pieces while supporting the vibrant arts community of North Carolina’s Crystal Coast.

The small community of Harkers Island comes to life at this annual event that puts this community’s rich heritage and history in the spotlight. The annual Core Sound Decoy Festival, which is held the first full weekend in December, is a unique celebration that combines exhibits, demonstrations, vendors, food, and much more, to the delight of local visitors and residents alike.

The Crystal Coast is renowned as a popular destination for seasonal visitors of all varieties, and that includes the thousands of waterfowl that flock to this region every year. This unique distinction is celebrated annually at the Core Sound Waterfowl Weekend, which is a fantastic opportunity for visitors to learn more about this stunning landscape, and the many feathered visitors who call it home for the winter season.

The historic Beaufort waterfront comes alive during this holiday celebration that combines this community’s love of the water with a literal boatload of holiday lights. The annual Friends of the Maritime Museum Holiday Flotilla is a fun and festive event that will wow spectators throughout the Crystal Coast, and which will put visitors of all ages in a holiday state of mind.

Crystal Coast visitors who want to get a jump start on their holiday shopping will adore this event that takes place in one of the region’s favorite beach towns, and which features a world of coastal-themed treasures. The annual Emerald Isle Holiday Arts & Crafts Fair is a great venue for finding gifts and seasonal treasures of all varieties and is a convenient opportunity for shoppers of all ages to explore all the talented artists and craftsmen that call the southern Outer Banks home.

Beaufort is a small town with a lot of personality, and this fun and coastal culture is on full display at the annual Beaufort Christmas Parade. Held in the heart of the waterfront downtown, the yearly parade is a fun event for visitors of all ages, and is a celebration that is sure to put all Crystal Coast visitors in a holiday state of mind.

Get into the holiday spirit with a festive coastal twist at the annual Santa Beach Run/Walk at Fort Macon State Park in Atlantic Beach, North Carolina. This cheerful holiday event invites runners, walkers, families, and friends to celebrate the season while enjoying the beautiful beaches of the Crystal Coast. With its combination of fresh ocean air, scenic surroundings, and Christmas cheer, the Santa Beach Run/Walk offers a fun and memorable way to stay active during the holidays.

For roughly 50 years, the small coastal community of Newport comes to vivid life with a holiday tradition that visitors of all ages will love. The annual Newport Christmas Parade is a community-wide celebration that features plenty of floats, music, and other surprises that will delight and wow the crowd, and will put everyone in the holiday mood.

The Holiday Show is an annual seasonal art exhibition and sale presented by the Arts Council of Carteret County, showcasing a wide variety of handmade artwork, crafts, and unique gift items created by local and regional artists. Held each holiday season at the Arts Council’s gallery in Morehead City, the event provides visitors with an opportunity to explore one-of-a-kind pieces while supporting the vibrant arts community of North Carolina’s Crystal Coast.

Come explore a winter wonderland of holiday sights, sounds, and smells at this festive event that is celebrating its 12th year in 2026. The annual Gingerbread Festival & Competition is a fun and all-encompassing celebration that has incredible gingerbread displays, fun crafts and activities for the kids, and lots of ways to celebrate the holidays in style while admiring some of the most unique and creative gingerbread creations that the Crystal Coast has to offer.

Visitors of all ages can ring in the holiday season with a big dose of local and coastal charm by heading to the annual Pine Knoll Shores Christmas Parade in the heart of Pine Knoll Shores. This coastal celebration is an annual tradition that longtime residents and vacationers have grown to adore, and it serves as the perfect vehicle for gearing up for the bright and cheery spirit of the holiday season.

The summertime Beaufort Farmer’s Market is revitalized for the holidays at this special annual event that combines Christmas shopping, local fare, kids’ activities, and plenty of community spirit. The Old Fashioned Holiday Farmer’s Market is celebrating its 11th year in 2025, and is a delightful opportunity to connect with local fishermen, bakers, craftsmen, artists, and vendors of all varieties to load up on unique holiday presents, or to take home some goodies of your own.

Ring in the season in the heart of the Crystal Coast with this event that is renowned as one of the longest running traditions in Morehead City. The annual Christmas Parade is always a thrill for spectators of all ages, with plenty of music, floats, and festivities to go around.

Celebrate the magic of the holiday season with an underwater twist at Santa by the Sea, a festive family-friendly event at the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores. This special holiday celebration combines the excitement of Christmas with the wonders of marine life, offering a unique opportunity for families to enjoy seasonal festivities in one of the Crystal Coast's most popular attractions. With its cheerful atmosphere and fascinating aquatic exhibits, Santa by the Sea is a memorable way to welcome the holiday season.

Celebrate the joy of the holiday season with a special Down East tradition at Santa Saturday at the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum & Heritage Center on Harkers Island, North Carolina. This festive, family-friendly event brings together the magic of Christmas and the rich coastal heritage of the Crystal Coast, offering a wonderful opportunity for children and families to enjoy holiday activities in a unique waterfront setting. With its welcoming atmosphere and beautiful surroundings, Santa Saturday is a delightful way to make lasting holiday memories.

The Holiday Show is an annual seasonal art exhibition and sale presented by the Arts Council of Carteret County, showcasing a wide variety of handmade artwork, crafts, and unique gift items created by local and regional artists. Held each holiday season at the Arts Council’s gallery in Morehead City, the event provides visitors with an opportunity to explore one-of-a-kind pieces while supporting the vibrant arts community of North Carolina’s Crystal Coast.

Warm up your winter with a festive evening by the ocean at the annual Smoke on the Water Bonfire at the Atlantic Beach Circle. This popular Crystal Coast tradition brings residents and visitors together for a memorable night of live music, warm drinks, and a roaring beach bonfire. Hosted by the Town of Atlantic Beach, the free, family-friendly event offers a unique way to celebrate the holiday season and welcome the New Year while enjoying the beautiful coastal surroundings.

Ring in the New Year with a unique Down East celebration at the Annual Anchor Drop at the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum & Heritage Center on Harkers Island, North Carolina. This festive community tradition offers a distinctly coastal twist on the classic New Year's Eve countdown, bringing together families, friends, and visitors to celebrate the arrival of a new year. Set against the beautiful waterfront backdrop of Harkers Island, the event captures the welcoming spirit and maritime heritage of the Crystal Coast.

Ring in the New Year with a fun and uniquely Southern celebration at the annual New Year's Eve Pig Drop at Newport Community Park in Newport, North Carolina. This family-friendly event offers a lighthearted alternative to traditional New Year's Eve festivities, bringing residents and visitors together for an evening of music, laughter, and community spirit. Hosted by the Town of Newport Parks and Recreation Department, the celebration is especially popular with families looking to welcome the New Year without staying up until midnight.

Visitors of all ages will have a ball at the Emerald Isle St. Patrick’s Festival, which is an annual celebration that has become one of the most anticipated events of the springtime season. Going strong for more than 25 years, the Emerald Isle St. Patrick’s Festival features a wealth of food, arts and craft vendors, rides, and activities for kids, which will all combine to get attendees into a festive holiday spirit.

The Crystal Coast Run/Walk for Autism brings together runners, walkers, families, and community supporters for an inspiring event dedicated to making a difference in the lives of individuals with autism. Held in Morehead City along North Carolina's beautiful Crystal Coast, this annual gathering combines fitness, fun, and community spirit while raising awareness and funds for an important cause.

Discover the wonders of the night sky at the annual Crystal Coast Star Party, a family-friendly celebration of astronomy held at the Cape Lookout National Seashore Visitor Center on Harkers Island, North Carolina. This special event invites stargazers of all ages to explore the universe while enjoying some of the darkest skies along the East Coast. Held in conjunction with International Dark Sky Week, the Star Party celebrates Cape Lookout National Seashore's designation as an International Dark Sky Park and offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the stars away from city lights.

The annual Wooden Boat Show is a tradition in the town of Beaufort, and its 51st celebration in 2027 promises to be bigger and more engaging than ever before. With a long roster of activities that are slated for the weekend-long event, visitors will be treated to a wealth of activities, displays, exhibits, and interactive ways to join in the fun.

There’s a host of reasons to explore a creative side, as well as the picturesque Swansboro waterfront, at the Swansboro Arts by the Sea Festival. This unique and day-long festival has a wealth of activities, entertainment and enticements for everyone in the family, and with plenty of food, crafts, children’s activities, shopping opportunities and more, the festival is sure to be a highlight of any Crystal Coast vacation.

The Swansboro Independence Day Celebration is a beloved annual tradition that brings residents and visitors together along the town’s historic waterfront for an evening of patriotic festivities, live entertainment, and family-friendly fun. Held each year in downtown Swansboro, the event celebrates America’s independence while showcasing the charm and hospitality of one of North Carolina’s most picturesque coastal communities.

The Morehead City Waterfront Fireworks celebration is a popular annual event that draws residents and visitors to the scenic downtown waterfront for an evening of family-friendly entertainment and a spectacular fireworks display over the water. Held along the Morehead City waterfront, the event provides a festive opportunity for the community to gather and enjoy one of the Crystal Coast’s most picturesque settings while celebrating a special holiday or community occasion.

Beaufort’s Annual Fourth of July Parade is a longstanding Independence Day tradition that brings residents, visitors, civic organizations, businesses, and community groups together in the heart of historic Beaufort for a celebration of patriotism and small-town coastal charm. Held each July 4 in downtown Beaufort, the parade has become one of the community’s most anticipated annual events, drawing spectators to Front Street to enjoy festive floats, decorated vehicles, marching groups, local organizations, and plenty of red, white, and blue spirit.

The Big Rock Kids Billfish Tournament is a family-focused offshore fishing event designed to introduce young anglers to the sport of competitive billfishing while supporting charitable causes throughout eastern North Carolina. Held annually in Morehead City as part of the renowned Big Rock tournament series, the event brings together children, families, captains, and fishing enthusiasts for several days of offshore competition, waterfront activities, and community celebrations. The tournament serves as a fun and educational introduction to sportfishing while emphasizing conservation, teamwork, and sportsmanship.