MumFest in New Bern: A Celebration of Fall and Community

Here’s an updated version of your MumFest blog with the 2025 details and a few tweaks to keep it fresh.

MumFest in New Bern 2025: Fall, Community & Fun You Don’t Want to Miss

Written by Andrew Alcaraz

As the air turns crisp and the leaves start to change, one of Eastern North Carolina’s biggest fall traditions returns: MumFest in historic downtown New Bern. If you’re local (or thinking of visiting), MumFest is the perfect way to celebrate autumn, community, and all things cozy. Here’s what’s new in 2025, plus everything you need to know to make the most of this beloved event.

1. What is MumFest?

MumFest is a two-day fall festival that draws locals and visitors alike for music, art, food, and fun. Recognized as one of the top fall events in NC, MumFest transforms downtown New Bern into a festive hub full of color, energy, and charm. It’s been happening for decades, and 2025 marks another year of tradition.

2. Dates, Location & New 2025 Highlights

• Dates: October 11–12, 2025 (New Bern Mumfest)

• Where: Downtown New Bern — Middle Street, Pollock Street, Union Point Park, and surrounding blocks. (Visit New Bern)

• What’s New in 2025:

  • MumFest 2025 will feature an updated MUMosa 5K Fun Run route, now officially certified, starting at Union Point Park. (newbernnc.gov)

  • A large beer garden has been added to the lineup. Live music headliners are bigger, and vendor variety is expanded. (New Bern Mumfest)

  • More parking with free shuttles from certain lots (to ease traffic and access). (Eventeny)

3. Festival Attractions & Activities

Here’s what you can expect this year:

• Live Entertainment: Multiple stages with local bands, performers, and festivals acts. Music spans genres so there’s something for everyone.

• Arts & Crafts Vendors: Over a hundred booths with handmade goods, decor, clothing, pottery, art, and more. Perfect for finding seasonal gifts or souvenirs.

• Food & Local Eats: From fair favorites to gourmet bites—think BBQ, seafood, sweets, and local specialities.

• Amusement Rides & Games: Great for families—rides, face painting, games, and interactive booths.

• Boat Show: Don’t miss the MumFest Boat Show at the waterfront—boating display and lawn viewing. (New Bern Mumfest)

• MUMosa 5K & 1-Mile Run: Get moving! This year’s run features a newly certified course, and there’s also a fun walk/run option. Great if you want to kick off the day with energy. (newbernnc.gov)

4. A Taste of Culture & Community

Downtown New Bern is beautiful this time of year—with its colonial architecture and the Riverscape as the backdrop. MumFest isn’t just about food and fun; it’s a chance to experience the arts, local businesses, and the kind of hospitality that defines our area. While you’re there, take time to explore landmarks like Tryon Palace or stroll through galleries and boutique shops.

5. Pro Tips for MumFest 2025

• Arrive early both days—parking fills fast. Use shuttle lots if you can. (Eventeny)

• Comfort is key: wear good walking shoes. Be ready for warm midday sun and cooler evening air.

• Bring both cash & card: many vendors take cards, but smaller ones (or spontaneous treats) often prefer cash.

• Don’t forget a camera—mums everywhere make great photo spots.

• Check the weather in advance; evenings can be chilly.

• Plan which attractions are must-sees for you—if you want to hit the Boat Show, the 5K, food vendors, etc., map your route.

6. Why You Shouldn’t Miss MumFest 2025

MumFest is more than just an event—it’s one of those weekends that reminds you why you love living (or visiting) the Crystal Coast region. The smiles, the colors, the local spirit—there’s a warmth to it that’s hard to replicate. It’s a fall tradition, yes—but it’s also a reminder of what community can be: welcoming, creative, fun.

If you’ve never been, this is the year to go. If you’ve been before, you’ll see how MumFest keeps growing—and how downtown New Bern comes alive in October.