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The First Annual Arts in April

Our coastal town may be known for its stunning views and historic charm, but the hidden gem of our community is its diverse arts scene.
Join us for New Bern’s first annual Arts in April, a festival dedicating the entire month of April to celebrating the arts. As a testament to our thriving arts community, we have a full and exciting calendar of events planned to showcase what New Bern has to offer.

From family-friendly downtown events and fine arts showcases to theatre and concert performances, Arts in April has something for everyone. Plan your trip around the activities below:

Schedule of Events

April 1-2

  • Kids Zone — Family-friendly events, vendors, and entertainment at Tryon Palace and along the 400 block of Pollock Street
    Saturday 10 a.m. — 6 p.m.
  • ENC Home & Outdoor Expo Plus Artisan Market at The Riverfront Convention Center
    Friday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Sunday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. 
  • Honk Jr. — Catch the final performances of this charming children’s musical at New Bern Civic Theatre
    Presented by StageHANDS/Theatre for Young Audiences. Purchase tickets at www.newberncivictheatre.org for Friday at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday at 2 p.m.
  • Marionette Puppet Show — In front of New Bern Civic Theatre | Time TBD
  • Tryon Palace — Plein Air painters

April 8-9 

  • Tryon Palace — Plein Air painters
  • No street closure

April 14-16

  • ArtWalk — This free self-guided tour is a monthly event featuring 30 stops throughout downtown New Bern, showcasing the best stores and art galleries New Bern has to offer!
  • Arts in April Music Festival — Three-day event. On Saturday enjoy live musicians performing free concerts in front of downtown storefronts, parks, and residences all day. Three featured guest artist concerts will anchor the Arts in April Music Festival on NBCT’s Athens MainStage Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday afternoon at 2:00 p.m. NBCT concerts range from $20.00 to $40.00
  • Fife and Drum Corps —18th-century military tunes and downtown march | Saturday, time TBD
  • Tryon Palace Garden Lover’s Weekend and Plein Air painters

April 21-23

  • New Bern Historical Society Centennial Event — Enjoy an all-day celebration in honor of the 100th anniversary of the historical society!
  • The New Bern Follies return for a one-night-only vaudeville-style variety show at the New Bern Civic Theater
  • Earth Day Weekend activities | 400 block of Pollock Street
  • Tryon Palace — Plein Air painters

April 29-30

  • Community Art open all day to the public at the Heart of the Art on the 400 block of Pollock Street
  • Tryon Palace — Plein Air painters

A Special Thanks To Our Community Stakeholders