Sponsored Content

5+ holiday events straight from a Hallmark special

Sponsored by
Festive scenes from around New Bern, including the tree lighting, gates with wreaths, and a holiday market under lights.

New Bern during the holidays is truly a sight to see.

Photos provided by Visit New Bern

Downtown New Bern is transforming once again into a month-long winter wonderland of festive decor, glittering lights, and Hallmark-worthy holiday events.

In addition to seasonal shopping + delectable dining, we’ve got our eyes on:

  • Light Up the Season: Tree Lighting + Santa’s Arrival | Friday, Nov. 29
  • Christmas Parade & Flotilla | Saturday, Dec. 7
  • Candlelight at Tryon Palace | December 14 + 21
  • Holiday Pops Symphony | Sunday, Dec. 15
  • New Year’s Eve Bear Drop | Tuesday, Dec. 31

Pro tip: Book one of these holiday travel packages for a fun weekend getaway. Enjoy ho-ho-holiday spirit in New Bern.

More from RALtoday
Needlepoint is one of the biggest “analog hobby” trends. Here’s where to learn and meet other stitchers.
In case you hadn’t noticed, Raleigh’s growing in a big way, and some mixed-use developments are set to transform downtown + Midtown in 2026 and beyond. Here’s what you need to know about three major developments.
Discover the top Raleigh business podcasts, voices, and local resources our readers are tuning into — from must-listen interviews to expert insights.
Visit The Magic of the Fourth Ward: A Journey Through Time and Culture at the Martin Marietta Center to learn more about this vibrant neighborhood destroyed by urban renewal.
Microsoft, the world’s No. 4 most valuable company, will bring a data center to a large parcel in Person County.
Explore all 308 acres of Dorothea Dix Park and its top landmarks, history, and more.
The long-awaited Texas burger chain will make its debut next month in Wake Forest, and Raleigh’s location will open two weeks later.
The Canes sent five players to Milan for the 2026 Winter Olympics, and five of them are coming home as medalists, including one gold medalist.
From curling to ice hockey, you can train just like the world’s top athletes without leaving the 919.
Songbird will open later this year with local produce-driven cocktails, mocktails, and bites.