New Bern Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in New Bern and surrounding areas
New Bern transforms for the festive season with ornate Holiday lights and a lively lineup of things to do around Tryon Palace and the historic waterfront. The city's tree-lined streets and riverfront district host Christmas markets, seasonal concerts, and guided holiday tours that feel both elegant and welcoming. Plan to attend Candlelight 2025 at Tryon Palace or join Beary Merry Christmas Events for family-friendly activities that include parades, markets, and nightly lights along familiar downtown corridors.
Find the best New Bern Christmas happenings this year!
Start Here
Editor's Picks (6)
-
Beary Merry Christmas Events
Themed Thursday night shopping with live music and snowfall
-
Festival of Trees
(Greenville)
Nearly 100 decorated trees and Storytime with Santa
-
Goldsboro Christmas Parade
(Goldsboro)
Annual community Christmas parade
-
Boomerang's Christmas Kickoff
Dinner, show, and Festival of Lights hayride experience.
-
Wilmington Celebration Choir Special Holiday Performance
(Jacksonville)
Holiday choir performance with Southern buffet and hayride
-
The Greater Topsail Area Christmas Market
(Surf City)
Christmas market and flotilla celebration
Events Happening Soon (1)
Christmas Parties Near New Bern
Festive dining experiences, holiday parties, and Christmas-themed food and drink events in New Bern.
Boomerang's Christmas Kickoff
Experience an unforgettable musical Christmas event featuring Boomerang, New Bern's top stage show....
View full details →Wilmington Celebration Choir Special Holiday Performance
Celebrate the season with an unforgettable evening featuring a soul-stirring performance by the...
View full details →Christmas Markets Near New Bern
Additional holiday activities and unique Christmas experiences in New Bern.
The Greater Topsail Area Christmas Market
Discover unique handmade gifts and festive treats at the Annual Christmas Market, held...
View full details →Small Town Christmas Market
Discover a unique holiday shopping experience at the Small Town Christmas Market. This...
View full details →Other Christmas Activities Near New Bern
Additional holiday activities and unique Christmas experiences in New Bern.
Down East Holiday Show
Discover the magic of the Down East Holiday Show, a festive celebration designed...
View full details →Goldsboro Christmas Parade
Get ready for the annual Goldsboro Christmas Parade, a cherished community tradition! This...
View full details →New Bern Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near New Bern
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near New Bern!
New Bern Christmas FAQ
Major annual Christmas events in New Bern often include the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and various holiday markets held in the historic downtown area. Keep an eye on local event calendars for specific dates and details each year.
New Bern often embraces its historic charm with traditions like festive decorations in the downtown area and community gatherings that celebrate the season. The city's historic architecture provides a beautiful backdrop for holiday celebrations.
Residential neighborhoods throughout New Bern often feature beautiful Christmas lights, with many residents decorating their homes extensively. Driving through areas like Ghent or the historic districts can offer a delightful display.
Christmas markets and local makers are frequently found in New Bern's historic downtown area, often hosted at community centers or public spaces. Local artisan fairs and holiday bazaars are popular spots to discover unique crafts.
Enjoying the neighborhood Christmas lights, attending free tree lighting ceremonies, and exploring the festive decorations in the historic downtown are great free options. Many community organizations also offer free holiday events.
Families often enjoy visiting Santa, attending holiday craft events, and exploring the festive lights and decorations around town. Many local venues and community centers offer kid-friendly holiday programming.