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?
For the safety of our guests and your furry family members, personal pets (dogs, cats, alpacas, etc.) are NOT permitted within festival grounds. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
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.
Can I fly my drone at MumFest?
No. The festival footprint is a no-fly zone during festival hours. Only approved drones are allowed.
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
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.