Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Beary Merry Christmas Events
Themed Thursday night shopping with live music and snowfall
About
Embrace the holiday magic in Downtown New Bern with Beary Merry Christmas! This event series offers enchanting celebrations for all ages, from Santa's grand arrival and tree lighting to festive Thursday night shopping featuring live music and snowfall. Explore charming live window displays and enjoy relaxed Wednesday evening photo sessions with Santa. It's a season of joy, wonder, and cherished memories.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and couples
Vibe
Festive and magical
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Special Events & Promotions
- Annual Card Campaign for nursing home residents
- New Bern Coca Crawl on February 15, 2025
- Santa's Arrival & Tree Lighting on Friday, November 28, 2025
- Live Window Displays on Friday, December 12, 2025
- 'Wind Down with Santa' Wednesday Evening Photo Sessions
- Thursday Night Shopping with new themes, live music, snowfall, and Santa photos
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.
Location
Event Details
Pricing
$
Duration
Varies by event
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown New Bern
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Beary Merry Events
Practical Information
Parking
Most of downtown’s on-street parking is 2-hours and FREE (Monday-Friday 8 am – 4 pm). FREE ALL-DAY parking lots are conveniently located within 1-2 blocks of shopping and dining. Look for signs to take you to the Red Bear, Gold Bear, Black Bear, or Brown Bear lots. Paid parking is available at the corner of Craven and Pollock Street.
Pet Policy
No pets allowed
Food & Drink
Food trucks and beverage vendors available
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early for Santa's Arrival & Tree Lighting to secure a good viewing spot, as this is a popular kickoff event.
- Check the specific theme for each Thursday Night Shopping event beforehand to plan your visit and any special activities.
- Utilize the free all-day parking lots on weekends to avoid any time restrictions and fully enjoy exploring downtown.
- Consider bringing a reusable mug for hot cocoa during the window display strolls, especially if you plan to visit multiple participating businesses.
- Dress in layers for the evening events, as snowfall is a feature and temperatures can drop, especially during outdoor activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main events during Beary Merry Christmas?
Key events include Santa's Arrival & Tree Lighting, Live Window Displays, 'Wind Down with Santa' Wednesday evening photo sessions, and themed Thursday Night Shopping.
Is there parking available for the events?
Yes, most downtown on-street parking is free for 2 hours on weekdays, and there are free all-day parking lots available. Paid parking is also an option.
Are there food and drink options available?
Yes, food trucks and beverage vendors will be available, offering festive treats and drinks.
Can I bring my pet to the events?
The pet policy states no pets are allowed, though service animals are typically welcome.
What is the best way to stay updated on event changes?
It is recommended to like their Facebook page for any updates on delays, closures, or important news regarding events.
