CITY OF NEW BERN ANNOUNCES FESTIVE CHRISTMAS PARADE TO SPREAD HOLIDAY CHEER
The City of New Bern is excited to host the 2023 Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 2nd at 10am. The parade will begin on George Street and wind its way along a three-quarter mile route heading east on Broad Street, then south on Craven Street, and ending at the intersection of Craven and S. Front streets. The event promises to be a heartwarming celebration of the holiday season that residents and visitors will not want to miss.
Families are encouraged to bring their children, friends, and loved ones to witness the sights and sounds of the season. The parade promises to be a memorable experience of holiday music, marching bands, community groups and performances for all ages. The City has extended a special invitation to Santa Claus and he has confirmed he will be there. Bundle up and bring your holiday spirit, as we share warmth, laughter, and festive joy along the parade route.
If you would like to participate in the parade, please register online or print/download the application on our website at www.NewBernNC.gov/ChristmasParade. Printed applications should be submitted to Parks & Recreation, 1307 Country Club Road, anytime Monday through Friday between 8am and 5pm (excluding holidays). The deadline to enter is Monday, November 27th at 5pm. There is no cost to enter, but parade participants are encouraged to apply early. Space is limited. If you have questions about the parade or the application, call Parks & Recreation at (252)639-2920.
Applicants can register under one of the following categories:
Government Officials
Animals (horses, pets)
Military/Veterans
Antique Tractors
Civic/Nonprofit (youth clubs, churches, etc.)
Public Safety
Antique Cars (must be at least 25 years old)
Commercial
Entertainment (bands, dance groups, performers)
Other
The following street closures are scheduled for this event on Saturday, December 2nd:
- 300-600 blocks of Broad Street closed from 9:30am-1:00pm
- 200-300 blocks of Craven Street closed from 9:30am-1:00pm
- 400-800 blocks of George Street closed from 8:00am-1:00pm
The parade will be recorded for broadcast later on City 3 TV (Optimum) and shared on the City’s website (www.NewBernNC.gov/city3tv), YouTube channel (www.YouTube.com/City3TV) and social media platforms (Facebook www.Facebook.com/CityofNB and Instagram www.Instagram.com/CityofNewBern).
“We’re excited to extend this annual tradition in New Bern,” said Mayor Jeffrey Odham. “It’s a time for friends, families and the community to come together in the spirit of the holiday season. We encourage participants and parade-goers to dress up in festive holiday attire. This parade promises to be a fun event to put all of us in the Christmas mood.”
Please note the new time of the parade - at 10am. In year’s past, it has been held in the afternoon. Later that evening, residents and visitors are invited to join us at for the 39th Annual Coastal Christmas Flotilla along the Trent and Neuse Rivers. This boat parade is hosted by the City’s Parks and Recreation department and starts at 5:30pm at Union Point Park.
Other holiday events are being hosted by Beary Merry Christmas, a committee of the New Bern Area Chamber of Commerce. Check the official website at www.BearyMerryEvents.com for a complete schedule.
Let’s make this holiday season one to remember. Mark your calendars and join us December 2nd for the 2023 Christmas Parade and Coastal Christmas Flotilla!