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FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

General Festival Information

When is MumFest?

MumFest takes place the second weekend of October every year in historic downtown New Bern, NC. This year the dates are October 10-11, 2026.

Where is MumFest located?

MumFest spans throughout downtown New Bern and along the scenic riverfront.

What are the hours of MumFest?

Saturday:

General Festival Hours are 10am-6:30pm.

Sunday:

General Festival Hours are 10am-5pm.

Mumosa 5k and Fun Run: The Fun Run begins at 7:30am and the 5k begins at 8:00am.

How much does it cost to attend?

MumFest is a free, family-friendly event. Some activities (amusement rides, games, vendors, and food/beverage purchases) have separate costs.

Restrictions & Safety

Can I bring my pet?

Due to the large crowds and safety concerns, pets (dogs, cats, alpacas, etc.) are NOT allowed at MumFest.

Can I bring my own food and drink?

Other than water, outside food and beverages are discouraged. No outside alcohol is permitted. Food trucks and vendors will have plenty of options available.

Are coolers allowed?

Coolers are not permitted inside the festival footprint.

Will photos or videos be taken during MumFest?

Yes, by entering the festival footprint, all attendees grant permission to be photographed or recorded for promotional use by Swiss Bear, Inc., MumFest, and Visit New Bern.

Are bikes, skateboards, scooters, or electric vehicles allowed?

For safety, bikes, skateboards, scooters, rollerblades, and other similar vehicles are NOT allowed within the main festival footprint.

Is smoking allowed?

Smoking and vaping are NOT permitted within the main festival footprint.

Are demonstrations or public speeches allowed?

No. Demonstrations, protests, or other forms of public speech are NOT permitted within the festival footprint.

Parking & Transportation

Where can I park for MumFest?

There are very limited public parking spaces available downtown near the festival footprint. Please utilize Lawson Creek Park, Temple Baptist Church parking lot (only Saturday), and the State Employee Credit Union parking lot. Complimentary shuttle buses run every 15-20 minutes between Lawson Creek Park and downtown throughout festival hours.

Is there handicap-accessible parking?

Yes. ADA-accessible parking is available in the lot beside 214 Craven Street. A valid handicap placard or license plate must be displayed to use these spaces. Festival staff may turn vehicles away if a placard or plate is not properly displayed.

Can I park downtown?

Downtown parking is extremely limited. All festivalgoers, including church attendees on Sunday, are encouraged to use Lawson Creek Park and the free shuttles.

Are shuttles free?

Yes! The shuttle service from Lawson Creek Park to downtown is complimentary for all attendees.

Other Helpful Information

What happens when it rains?

MumFest is a rain-or-shine event.

Are there ATMs available?

Yes, ATMs will be available in multiple locations, although many vendors accept credit/debit cards.

Is first aid available?

Yes. First aid will be located on-site on Broad Street, and EMS staff will be available throughout the event.

Who organizes MumFest?

MumFest is produced by Swiss Bear, Inc. in partnership with the City of New Bern.

Restrooms

Where are the restrooms located?

Portable restroom stations are located throughout the festival footprint, including:

Union Point Park
Hancock Street
Craven Street
Middle Street
Beer Garden
Broad Street

Accessible Units are located:

Union Point Park
Hancock Street
Craven Street
Broad Street
Beer Garden

Additional restrooms with changing tables are located at The Cub House: 223 Pollock Street

Must-See Attractions

What are the can't-miss items at MumFest?

Live Entertainment at the North Carolina Education Lottery Music Stage, the Chick-fil-A Community Stage, and the Howard and Friends Stage.
KidsZone for family fun
Nearly 300 vendors and food trucks offering unique shopping and dining
The beautiful mum displays decorating downtown.

MumFest is a city-sponsored event produced by Swiss Bear, Inc.

NC Main Street Program_FINAL_4C_Horizontal_2021

Contact Us

PO Box 597, New Bern, NC 28563

events@swissbear.org

Learn More

mumfest.com

downtownnewbern.com

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Copyright © All Rights Reserved.
Website Design and Hosting by New Bern Web Design.
Photography Disclaimer: Imagery is sourced by community partners, vendors, and entertainers.

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Copyright © 2026 New Bern Mumfest. All Rights Reserved.
Website Design and Hosting by New Bern Web Design.

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