Yes! The Mardi Gras Parade and Block Party are free and open to the public. Some food, drinks, and activities may have a cost, and proceeds from select sales help support Swiss Bear, Inc. and its downtown support and development efforts.
The parade will begin at 10:30 AM. A detailed parade schedule and route map will be posted closer to the event.
The parade will take place on Pollock Street starting at Pricess Street, will turn right on Middle Street, and exit on S. Front Street. The festive block party will be at the intersection of Pollock and Middle Streets directly following the parade.
Yes. The 500-900 blocks of Pollock will have a rolling closure for the parade, impacting all cross streets that run perpendicular to those blocks. Access will be restored in a rolling fashion as the end of the parade passes each street. The 300-400 blocks of Pollock Street as well as the 200-300 blocks of Middle Street will be closed from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM for the Mardi Gras Block Party
Public Parking will be available throughout the open streets of downtown, as well as the Red Bear Lot, Black Bear Lot, and Brown Bear Lot. Lawson Creek Park is also open for parking. There will be Handicap accessible parking; the location is to be determined at this time.
Yes! Downtown New Bern Mardi Gras is designed to be fun for all ages, with music, kids activities, and a welcoming atmosphere!
We do not encourage pets at this event due to the large crowds and potential loud noises.
You are able to participate through registering as a parade participant or through sponsorship. Visit the Participate section of the website to learn more about parade registration. Visit the Sponsors section of the website to learn more about sponsorship.
Vendor opportunities are available to craft vendors. Visit the Participant/Vendor section of the website for the Eventeny link to apply. PLEASE NOTE: There are no commercial and non-profit vendor opportunities for this event in 2026.
Yes! While attendance is free, the Downtown New Bern Mardi Gras parade serves as a fundraiser for Swiss Bear, Inc., with proceeds reinvested into downtown events, beautification, buisness support, and development.
Yes, the event is planned as rain or shine. There will be multiple activities that can and will take place indoors for the block party in case of weather. Any updates due to weather will be shared on the website and social media channels.
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