Schedule

Visit the 300th website for information
http://www.newbern300th.com/FirstNight.htm

This will give you an idea of all the wonderful events that are planned.

OUTER PERIMETER
I MASONIC TEMPLE Bear City Opry
II FIREMAN'S MUSEUM Museum
III CORNER MIDDLE/BROAD New Bern Stories Video
IV UNION POINT Southbound 85/ fireworks
V NBRFCC Children/History Bowl/Teresa James
VI 212 SOUTH FRONT Sea Capt. Lewis Lee's Wife
VII 312 SOUTH FRONT Info & Police Command Center
VIII 316 SOUTH FRONT Button Sales and Volunteer Check In
IX SKY SAIL LOBBY Harbour Jazz Combo
X FARMERS MARKET Cold Biscuit

MIDDLE STREET
1 BANK OF THE ARTS Trent River Chamber Players
2 KRESS ARCADE Barber Shop Quartet
3 EPISCOPAL MINISTRY CENTER Blues Brothers
4 EPISCOPAL CHURCH YARD Shadow Art
5 PEPSI STORE Caleb Bradham
6 BAPTIST GARDEN Resolution Fence
7 BAPTIST SANCTUARY Calyx Piano Trio
8 O'MARKS New Diamond Jubilee Gospel
9 BEAR PLAZA Mariachi Band
10 MIDDLE STREET Growing Tree craft by attendees

POLLOCK STREET
A SSCHH Lobby 300 Years /Pesky Yankees
B CIVIC THEATRE Vaudeville Review
C BAPTIST FAMILY LIFE CENTER Tango/Shag Lessons and dancing
D MIDDLE/POLLOCK Jonkonnu
E JAMES REED ALLEY Bo Diddley Matthews
F RIVERTOWN BALLROOM Ballroom Dancing
G CITY HALL Comedian

CRAVEN STREET
J MIDDLE OF CRAVEN STREET Paint the Town
K CHAMBER BOARD ROOM Dixieland Band
L TRENT RIVER COFFEE CO Karaoke

Click here to go to a link for the times of all the events

Click here to go to a link for a map of all the events taking place from 7 pm on

Click here to go to a link for a map of all the events for children taking place from 3-6 pm at the convention center



For more information email FirstNightNewBern@gmail.com

or call New Bern 300th Celebration
P.O. Box 300
New Bern, NC 28563
(252) 635-1710

Dickens Calendar for 2009

If you have questions just email us!

November 27 - The Christmas season officially starts!

Read "A Christmas Carol" in our Downtown windows, 12 new story boards added this year!

Downtown Illumination - See our Downtown light up every night throughout the season.

Downtown Kissing and Picture Spots this holiday season helps make New Bern the most romantic town in NC. Look for the mistletoe on Middle St. in front of Nautipaws.

There is also mistletoe on Craven St. in front of Confluence. Find the mistletoe and smack lips with someone special. Take a picture to remember New Bern as the most romantic town in NC.

Visit Santa in Bear Plaza each Friday, Saturday and Sunday, give him your wish and have your photo taken! Drop off a new toy for the Salvation Army Angel Tree Program providing toys for Craven County children or canned food for RCS. Shop until 8 pm on Friday evenings. And lots more.

Coloring Contest Sposored by Branch's Furniture, watch the Sun Journal for details!


Ornaments, Ornaments, Ornaments! - Blown glass ornament show at Carolina Creations through December 25. 252-633-4369.

November 27 - Friday

Ghost of Christmas Presents shopping & dining Friday night, these shops & restaurants open until at least 8 pm -The Chelsea Restaurant, New Bern ArtWorks, Confleunce, The Haymaker's Wife, Craven Arts Council and Gallery, Port City Java, The Cow Cafe, Captain Ratty's, The BoatHouse, Julliette's Boutique, One Worlde Shop/Life is Good, Fraser's Wine & Cheese Gourmet Shoppe, Bern Bear Gifts, The Kress Mall on Middle Street, The Four C's, The Pepsi Store, The Next Chapter, Carolina Creations, Branch's Furniture, Morgan's Tavern & Grill, Nauti Paws, Mitchell Hardware, Accidental Artist, Art and Materials, The Galley Stores.

The Salvation Army Christmas Carolers perform at the corner of Pollock & Middle Street - 6:30 PM - free!

Dickens of a Christmas Scavenger Hunt Week 1, win a print of one of the Dickens StoryBoards suitable for framing and a chance to win hotel accomodations at a variety of resorts. Read more about it.

Trolley Tours 5:30 & 7, Cost - $10 per person. The 1 hour guided tour in the downtown historic district, will begin & end on Middle Street at the Corner of Middle and Broad. It will showcase the Christmas decorations in the shops and homes downtown and an opportunity to join your guide in a Christmas Carol or two. Enjoy the spirit of the season with a holiday trolley tour in downtown New Bern. Reservations are required. For more information or reservations: (252) 637-7316.

Santa arrives in Bear Plaza 10-5 pm.

Toys for the Salvation Army Angel Tree Program Collected at the Santa House in Bear Plaza during Santa hours.

Food Drive for RCS collected at the Santa House during Santa hours.

Tryon Palace Festive Holiday Kick-off Weekend 9-5 - Included with regular ticket purchase. Christmas decorations are up in the Palace and in our three historic houses. Holiday tours of the festooned gardens and bedecked halls. Special activities offically launch us into the Christmas season.

Storyteller Terry Rollins will offer holiday stories in the Visitor Center Auditorium at 10 and 11 am, lasting approximately 30 minutes.

Performances include a different themed one-man act by Simon Spalding each day that will be a mixture of character portrayal and music. 1 and 2 pm and feature performances from the colonial, Revolutionary War and Civil War periods.


Accidental Artist Kick off the Christmas Season With Our "Ghosts of Christmas Presents" Open House Two-For-One Studio Fee all day. Refreshments served throughout the holiday season! Open 10-9

Downtown Open House at Carolina Creations, Mitchell Hardware, Four C's, The Pepsi Store, One Worlde Shop/Life is Good, Juliettes Boutique, Life is Good, Confluence, The Boathouse, Nauti Paws, New Bern Art Works, The Galley Stores, Accidental Artist, The Haymaker's Wife.

Dee's Dulcimers perform at Craven Arts Council 6 pm - free

Ghosts of New Bern Walking Tour 7:30 PM. Tours start next door to Morgan's Tavern & Grill (235 Craven St). Call (252) 571-4766 for reservations. Read more!

November 28 - Saturday
Open Houses in Downtown New Bern at, Carolina Creations, Mitchell Hardware, Nauti Paws, Four Cs, One Worlde Shop/Life is Good, Confluence, The Pepsi Store, Treasures on the Trent, Juliette's Boutique, The Boathouse, New Bern Art Works, and more!

Gifts of the Magi Singers from New Bern Civic Theatre stroll our sidewalks from 11-3.

Trolley Tours 5:30 & 7, Cost - $10 per person. The one hour guided tour in the downtown historic district, will begin and end on Middle Street at the Corner of Middle and Broad. It will showcase the Christmas decorations in the shops and homes downtown and an opportunity to join your guide in a Christmas Carol or two. Enjoy the spirit of the season with a holiday trolley tour in downtown New Bern. Reservations are required. For more information or reservations 252-637-7316 or follow this link.

Santa in Bear Plaza 10-5 Have your photo taken with Santa.
During Santa hours drop off a new toy for the Angel Tree Program and canned food for RCS at Santa House

Mrs Santa Story Hour and Craft Project, Bank of the Arts, free. For more information call 252638-2577.

Farmers Market is having a Craft Fair on Nov. 28th, 8Am to 3 Pm. 36 local artisits and artisans will be displaying their hand made crafts. The Market is located at 421 S. Front St. and provides ample parking.

Ghosts of New Bern Walking Tour 7:30 PM. Tours start next door to Morgan's Tavern & Grill (235 Craven St). Call (252) 571-4766 for reservations. Read more!

November 29 - Sunday
Shops & Restaurants open Sunday - The Chelsea Restaurant, Poor Charlie's, New Bern ArtWorks, Confleunce, The Haymaker's Wife, Craven Arts Council and Gallery, Port City Java, The Cow Cafe, Captain Ratty's, Treasures on the Trent, The BoatHouse, Julliette's Boutique, One Worlde Shop/Life is Good, The Four C's, The Pepsi Store, Carolina Creations, Morgan's Tavern & Grill, Nauti Paws, Mitchell Hardware, Accidental Artist, Art and Materials, The Galley Stores.

Santa in Bear Plaza 12-4 Have your photo taken with Santa.
During Santa hours drop off a new toy for the Angel Tree Program and canned food for RCS at Santa House.

Ghosts of New Bern Walking Tour 7:30 PM. Tours start next door to Morgan's Tavern & Grill (235 Craven St). Call (252) 571-4766 for reservations. Read more!

December 3 - Thursday
Community Caroling 6 pm on the 300 block of Pollock Street in front of Christ Church.

New Bern Civic Theatre Presents "The Gifts of the Magi" 8 pm. For more information click here!

December 4 - Friday
New Bern Civic Theatre Presents "The Gifts of the Magi" 8 pm. For more information click here!

Dickens of a Christmas Scavenger Hunt Week 2, win a print of one of the Dickens StoryBoards suitable for framing and a chance to win hotel accomodations at a variety of resorts. Read more about it.

The Salvation Army Brass Quartet performs at the corner of Pollock & Middle Street - 6:30 PM - free!

Trolley Tours 5:30 & 7, Cost - $10 per person. The one hour guided tour in the downtown historic district, will begin and end on Middle Street at the Corner of Middle and Broad. It will showcase the Christmas decorations in the shops and homes downtown and an opportunity to join your guide in a Christmas Carol or two. Enjoy the spirit of the season with a holiday trolley tour in downtown New Bern. Reservations are required. For more information or reservations 252-637-7316 or follow this link.

Santa in Bear Plaza 4-8 pm
During Santa hours drop off a new toy for the Angel Tree Program and canned food for RCS at Santa House.

Tiny Tims Night Out - shopping & dining Friday night, these shops & restaurants open until at least 8 pm - The Chelsea Restaurant, New Bern ArtWorks, Confleunce, The Haymaker's Wife, Craven Arts Council and Gallery, Port City Java, Fraser's Wine & Cheese Gourmet Shopp, The Kress Mall on Middle Street, Bern Bear Gifts, The Cow Cafe, Captain Ratty's, The BoatHouse, Julliette's Boutique, Branch's Furniture, One Worlde Shop/Life is Good, Confluence, The Four C's, The Pepsi Store, The Next Chapter, Carolina Creations, Morgan's Tavern & Grill, Nauti Paws, Mitchell Hardware, Accidental Artist, Art and Materials, The Galley Stores.

Community Tree Lighting at the Hilton Dec. 4, 2009 at 6pm at the end of Craven Street.

Voci Allegre vocal ensemble - “A Very British Christmas,” in the sanctuary of First Baptist Church (Middle Street) 6:00 PM. Read more!

"Tiny Tim’s Night Out" at Accidental Artist Start A Family Tradition and come make a snowman platter! Two-For-One Studio Fee 6-9 pm

Kids Night at the Kress Mall on Middle Street - Mom and Dad gifts for under $10 - gift wrapping table with tags and Christmas Card making supplies free with every purchase.

"Spirits of Christmas Holiday Hayride" which provides an opportunity to view New Bern's Christmas decorations and hear holiday-themed ghost stories that would make Dickens proud. 6:30 pm Call (252) 571-4766 to make a reservation. Read more!

December 5 - Saturday
Santa in Bear Plaza 10-2
During Santa hours drop off gift for Toys for Tots and canned food for RCS at Santa House

Breakfast with Santa at the new Bern Convention Center, seatings at 9am, 10am, and 11am email: santa@coastalnet.com or call 633-8247 for reservations. For more information click here.

Due to inclement weather the New Bern Christmas Parade has been reschedule for Sunday, Dec 13 at 3 pm in Downtown New Bern.

Jaycees Christmas Parade Downtown, 3 pm for entry guidelines click here.

Christmas Flotilla at Union Point Park Free! 5:30 til 7:30

Craven Arts Council - Mrs Santa Story Hour and Craft Project 1pm.

Tryon Palace "Twas the Night Before Christmas", 1 pm, a live reading with Alma Gibbons followed by cider and cookies.

New Bern Civic Theatre presents "The Gifts of the Magi," 2 pm & 8 pm, for more information click here

New Bern Art Works Will feature “Fine Arts for Less” a holiday special discount of 10% on Saturday December 5 only.

Trolley Tours 5:30 & 7, Cost - $10 per person. The one hour guided tour in the downtown historic district, will begin and end on Middle Street at the Corner of Middle and Broad. It will showcase the Christmas decorations in the shops and homes downtown and an opportunity to join your guide in a Christmas Carol or two. Enjoy the spirit of the season with a holiday trolley tour in downtown New Bern. Reservations are required. For more information or reservations 252-637-7316 or follow this link.

"Spirits of Christmas Holiday Hayride" which provides an opportunity to view New Bern's Christmas decorations and hear holiday-themed ghost stories that would make Dickens proud. 6:30 pm Call (252) 571-4766 to make a reservation. Read more!

Ghosts of New Bern Walking Tour 7:30 PM. Tours start next door to Morgan's Tavern & Grill (235 Craven St). Call (252) 571-4766 for reservations. Read more!


December 6 - Sunday
Shops & Restaurants open Sunday -
Carolina Creations, One Worlde/Life is Good, Four C's, Captain Rattys, Port City Java, The Cow Cafe, The BoatHouse, Julliette's Boutique, The Pepsi Store, Morgan's Tavern & Grill, Treasures on the Trent, Nauti Paws, The Haymaker's Wife, Mitchell Hardware, Confluence, Poor Charlies, Accidental Artist, Art and Materials, The Galley Stores and others.

New Bern Bed & Breakfasts Open House
2-5 pm, for more information click here!

New Bern Civic Theatre presents "The Gifts of the Magi", 2 pm, for more information click here!

New Bern Historical Society Christmas 'Friend-raiser' at the Blades House. It's a fabulous Christmas event that is open to non-members wanting to join the Historical Society that day. December 13, 3-5 pm. For more information call 252-638-8558.

Santa in Bear Plaza 12-4 pm

Toys for the Salvation Army Angel Tree Program Collected at the Santa House in Bear Plaza during Santa hours.

Ghosts of New Bern Walking Tour 7:30 PM. Tours start next door to Morgan's Tavern & Grill (235 Craven St). Call (252) 571-4766 for reservations. Read more!

Wednesday, December 9th
Accidental Artist Santa’s Workshop 3-7 pm Calling all kids 12 and under! Paint a Snowman" Family" Platter". Cookies for Santa Plate & Hot Chocolate Mug Or Ornaments for your tree! Our elves will be on hand to help with your project! $15.00 per child. Reservations suggested. Must be accompanied by an adult.

Ghosts of New Bern Walking Tour 7:30 PM. Tours start next door to Morgan's Tavern & Grill (235 Craven St). Call (252) 571-4766 for reservations. Read more!

Thursday, December 10th
Ghosts of New Bern Walking Tour 7:30 PM. Tours start next door to Morgan's Tavern & Grill (235 Craven St). Call (252) 571-4766 for reservations. Read more!

December 11 - Friday
Fizziwigs Party - shopping & dining Friday night, these shops & restaurants open until at least 8 pm - The Chelsea Restaurant, New Bern ArtWorks, Confleunce, The Haymaker's Wife, Craven Arts Council and Gallery, Port City Java, Fraser's Wine & Cheese Gourmet Shopp, The Kress Mall on Middle Street, The Cow Cafe, Bern Bear Gifts, Captain Ratty's, The BoatHouse, Julliette's Boutique, Branch's Furniture, One Worlde Shop/Life is Good, The Four C's, The Pepsi Store, Carolina Creations, The Next Chapter, Morgan's Tavern & Grill, Nauti Paws, Mitchell Hardware, Accidental Artist, Art and Materials, The Galley Stores.

Dickens of a Christmas Scavenger Hunt Week 3, win a print of one of the Dickens StoryBoards suitable for framing and a chance to win hotel accomodations at a variety of resorts. Read more about it.

The Salvation Army Christmas Carolers perform at the corner of Pollock & Middle Street - 6:30 PM - free!

Mr. and Mrs. Fizziwig’s Christmas Dance Party 7 pm, free - Come visit the world of Charles Dickens’ imagination by learning the very dances young Ebenezer Scrooge may have footed at the Christmas party of his employer, Mr. Fizziwig, Bank of the Arts in downtown New Bern. Read more!

Trolley Tours 5:30 & 7, Cost - $10 per person. The one hour guided tour in the downtown historic district, will begin and end on Middle Street at the Corner of Middle and Broad. It will showcase the Christmas decorations in the shops and homes downtown and an opportunity to join your guide in a Christmas Carol or two. Enjoy the spirit of the season with a holiday trolley tour in downtown New Bern. Reservations are required. For more information or reservations 252-637-7316 or follow this link.

Accidental Artist Fizziwig’s Party - Paint ‘Til You Faint! Two-for-one studio fee 6pm-12 am, Reservations suggested.

Kress Mall Christmas Celebration - 5 pm til 8. Beverages and Christmas treats for the whole family.

Santa Bear Plaza 4-8 pm

Toys for the Salvation Army Angel Tree Program Collected at the Santa House in Bear Plaza during Santa hours.

"Spirits of Christmas Holiday Hayride" which provides an opportunity to view New Bern's Christmas decorations and hear holiday-themed ghost stories that would make Dickens proud. 6:30 pm Call (252) 571-4766 to make a reservation. Read more!

Ghosts of New Bern Walking Tour 7:30 PM. Tours start next door to Morgan's Tavern & Grill (235 Craven St). Call (252) 571-4766 for reservations. Read more!

December 12 -Saturday
Santa in Bear Plaza 10-5 -
photos with Santa and give him your list! During Santa hours drop off a new toy for the Angel Tree Program and canned food for RCS at Santa House.

Craven Arts Council - Mrs Santa Story Hour and Craft Project 1 pm, free.

Cookie Walk at Christ Church, Parish Hall, Middle Street 10-3.
Members of the church bake hundreds of dozens of cookies (all are delicious!) and you walk around and pick the cookies you want (you can choose 1 of each kind if you wish). You pay by the pound. All proceeds go to support Christ Church projects.

The Holly and The Ivy Tour - 12-5 $12 in advance; $15 day of tour
Tickets available after NOV. 1st at: Craven County Visitor's Center, Harris Teeter, & Bank of the Arts (252) 638-2577, Click here for more information.

Trolley Tours 5:30 & 7, Cost - $10 per person. The one hour guided tour in the downtown historic district, will begin and end on Middle Street at the Corner of Middle and Broad. It will showcase the Christmas decorations in the shops and homes downtown and an opportunity to join your guide in a Christmas Carol or two. Enjoy the spirit of the season with a holiday trolley tour in downtown New Bern. Reservations are required. For more information or reservations 252-637-7316 or follow this link.

"Spirits of Christmas Holiday Hayride" which provides an opportunity to view New Bern's Christmas decorations and hear holiday-themed ghost stories that would make Dickens proud. 6:30 pm Call (252) 571-4766 to make a reservation. Read more!

Ghosts of New Bern Walking Tour 7:30 PM. Tours start next door to Morgan's Tavern & Grill (235 Craven St). Call (252) 571-4766 for reservations. Read more!

December 13 - Sunday
Santa in Bear Plaza 12-4 -
photos with Santa and give him your list! During Santa hours drop off a new toy for the Angel Tree Program and canned food for RCS at Santa House.

Downtown Shops Open on Sunday Carolina Creations, One Worlde/Life is Good, Four C's, Captain Rattys, Port City Java, The Cow Cafe, The Haymaker's Wife, The BoatHouse, Julliette's Boutique, The Pepsi Store, Morgan's Tavern & Grill, Nauti Paws, Confluence, Accidental Artist, Treasures on the Trent, Poor Charlies, Art and Materials, the Galley Stores and others.

New Bern Christmas Parade Sunday, Dec 13 at 3 pm in Downtown New Bern.

Ghosts of New Bern Walking Tour 7:30 PM. Tours start next door to Morgan's Tavern & Grill (235 Craven St). Call (252) 571-4766 for reservations. Read more!

December 14 - Monday
Messiah - Centenary United Methodist Church open rehearsal will be held 3:00 p.m. and a performance at 7:30 p.m. For more information click here.

December 15 - Tuesday
North Carolina Symphony Holiday POPS Concert - 6-9 pm -
New Bern Riverfront Convention Center. 877-627-6724.

December 19 - Thursday
Ghosts of New Bern Walking Tour
7:30 PM. Tours start next door to Morgan's Tavern & Grill (235 Craven St). Call (252) 571-4766 for reservations. Read more!

December 18 - Friday
Santa in Bear Plaza 4-8 pm
During Santa hours drop off a new toy for the Angel Tree Program and canned food for RCS at Santa House.

The Salvation Army Brass Quartet performs at the corner of Pollock & Middle Street - 6:30 PM - free!

Ebenezer Goes Shopping -
shopping & dining Friday night, these shops & restaurants open until at least 8 pm - The Chelsea Restaurant, New Bern Branch's Furniture, ArtWorks, Confleunce, The Haymaker's Wife, Craven Arts Council and Gallery, Bern Bear Gifts, Port City Java, Fraser's Wine & Cheese Gourmet Shopp, The Kress Mall on Middle Street, The Cow Cafe, Captain Ratty's, The BoatHouse, Julliette's Boutique, The Next Chapter, One Worlde Shop/Life is Good, The Four C's, The Pepsi Store, Carolina Creations, Morgan's Tavern & Grill, Nauti Paws, Mitchell Hardware, Accidental Artist, Art and Materials, The Galley Stores.


Accidental Artist Ebeneezer’s Night Out -
Do you have a hard-to-shop-for "Scrooge" on your list? Why not paint them something special. Open ‘til 9 Two-for-one studio fee 6-9 pm.

Kress Mall on Middle Street - Evening special sales for your someone, complimentary gift wrap and tags with every purchase.

Trolley Tours 5:30 & 7, Cost - $10 per person. The one hour guided tour in the downtown historic district, will begin and end on Middle Street at the Corner of Middle and Broad. It will showcase the Christmas decorations in the shops and homes downtown and an opportunity to join your guide in a Christmas Carol or two. Enjoy the spirit of the season with a holiday trolley tour in downtown New Bern. Reservations are required. For more information or reservations 252-637-7316 or follow this link.

"Spirits of Christmas Holiday Hayride" which provides an opportunity to view New Bern's Christmas decorations and hear holiday-themed ghost stories that would make Dickens proud. 6:30 pm Call (252) 571-4766 to make a reservation. Read more!

Ghosts of New Bern Walking Tour 7:30 PM. Tours start next door to Morgan's Tavern & Grill (235 Craven St). Call (252) 571-4766 for reservations. Read more!

December 19 - Saturday
Santa in Bear Plaza 10-5 -
photos with Santa and give him your list!

During Santa hours drop off a new toy for the Angel Tree Program and canned food for RCS at Santa House.

Pet Parade - 9 am.
Meet at the Corner of Front and Craven in the field area. Line up will begin at 8:30am and Parade will start at 9:00am . Last year we had 76 dogs and more than 100 people. This year we are looking to double that number! Costumes are encouraged but not mandatory! For more info call Nauti Paws (252) 637-0247

Trolley Tours 5:30 & 7, Cost - $10 per person. The one hour guided tour in the downtown historic district, will begin and end on Middle Street at the Corner of Middle and Broad. It will showcase the Christmas decorations in the shops and homes downtown and an opportunity to join your guide in a Christmas Carol or two. Enjoy the spirit of the season with a holiday trolley tour in downtown New Bern. Reservations are required. For more information or reservations 252-637-7316 or follow this link.

"Spirits of Christmas Holiday Hayride" which provides an opportunity to view New Bern's Christmas decorations and hear holiday-themed ghost stories that would make Dickens proud. 6:30 pm Call (252) 571-4766 to make a reservation. Read more!

Ghosts of New Bern Walking Tour 7:30 PM. Tours start next door to Morgan's Tavern & Grill (235 Craven St). Call (252) 571-4766 for reservations. Read more!

December 20 - Sunday
Santa in Bear Plaza 12-4 -
photos with Santa and give him your list! During Santa hours drop off a new toy for the Angel Tree Program and canned food for RCS at Santa House.

Shops & Restaurants open Sunday -
Carolina Creations, One Worlde/Life is Good, Four C's, Captain Rattys, Port City Java, The Cow Cafe, The Haymaker's Wife, The BoatHouse, Julliette's Boutique, The Pepsi Store, Morgan's Tavern & Grill, Treasures on the Trent, Nauti Paws, Confluence, Accidental Artist, Poor Charlies, Art and Materials, the Galley Stores and others.

Ghosts of New Bern Walking Tour 7:30 PM. Tours start next door to Morgan's Tavern & Grill (235 Craven St). Call (252) 571-4766 for reservations. Read more!

Monday December 21 - Wednesday December 23
Santa in Bear Plaza 12-4 -
photos with Santa and give him your list! During Santa hours drop off a new toy for the Angel Tree Program and canned food for RCS at Santa House.

Thursday December 24
Santa in Bear Plaza 10-2 -
photos with Santa and give him your list! During Santa hours drop off a new toy for the Angel Tree Program and canned food for RCS at Santa House.

Thursday, December 31
First Night! Read all about it.

Many thanks to our sponsors
Wachovia,
PotashCorp-Aurora - PCS Phosphate,
Carolina Creations Fine Art & Contemporary Craft Gallery,
Lonnie Pridgen Real Estate,
Mitchell Hardware,
The Four C's,
The Pepsi Store,
One Worlde Shop/Life is Good,
The Chelsea Restaurant,
Swiss Bear,
Port City Java,
The Accidental Artist,
Branch's Furniture,
Captain Ratty's,
Poor Charlies,
Treasures on the Trent,
Historic Downtown Residents Association,
Bern Bear Gifts,
New Bern ArtWorks,
New Bern Area Chamber of Commerce,
Craven County Arts Council and Gallery,
Swiss Bear ,
Juliettes Boutique,
New Bern Historical Society
Confluence
Hilton
New Bern Tours
The Intimate
The Next Chapter
Morgans Tavern and Grill
New Bern Arworks & Company
The Boathouse
The Fireman's Museum
Cow Cafe
The Haymaker's Wife
Fraser's Wine and Gourmet Cheese Shoppe
Nauti Paws
Art and Materials
and the list continues to grow.

Ghosts of New Bern Walking Tours and Hayrides

Ghosts of New Bern provides an evening walking tour of the Downtown Historic District.

New Bern is rich in history and heritage. Let the Ghosts of New Bern ® share some of the old city's mysteries, myths and legends with you on on entertainingone-hour guided walking tour through the streets of the Historic District.Explore why New Bern is host to so many unexplained happenings and unsolved mysteries.Do ghosts really inhabit some of the city's buildings and prowl its streets?You be the judge! ™

Guests will be entertained by thrilling ghosts stories and will learn about the history and heritage of the old city.

We also offer a "Spirits of Christmas Holiday Hayride" which provides an opportunity to view New Bern's Christmas decorations and hear holiday-themed ghost stories that would make Dickens proud.

Call (252) 571-4766 to make a reservation.

For more information visit our website by clicking here!

Messiah

2009 Messiah Dates Announced

James Ogle, former Artistic Director of the Boise Philharmonic Association and former Associate Conductor of the North Carolina Symphony, will return to New Bern for the twenty-seventh performance of George Friderick Handel’s Messiah, set for Monday, December 14. An open rehearsal will be held 3:00 p.m. and a performance at 7:30 p.m. Tickets will go on sale beginning November 10 at Fuller Music, 2310 Trent Road and the Craven Arts Council & Gallery, 317 Middle Street, New Bern. Tickets are also available from the Arts Council by credit card.

Craven Messiah Chorus rehearsals will begin at 7:30 pm November 2, and will continue each Monday in November and through the weekend of the performance. There are no auditions for chorus members, but they need to purchase their own musical score, available in advance from Fuller Music Store in New Bern. Rehearsals and the performance will be in the Sanctuary of Centenary United Methodist Church, at the corner of New and Middle Streets in New Bern.

Begun in 1981, the performances have featured a 135-member chorus from the surrounding area, including Beaufort, Craven, Carteret, Jones, New Hanover, Pamlico and Wayne counties. Accompanying the singers will be an orchestra composed of members of the North Carolina Symphony, many of whom have returned to New Bern each year for this occasion. The production is sponsored by the Craven Messiah Chorus, an organization originally founded by Centenary United Methodist Church, Christ Episcopal Church, First Baptist Church, and First Presbyterian Church. Co-directors of the Craven Messiah Chorus are B.J. Oglesby and Pat K. Rowlett. For information, phone First Presbyterian Church, 637-3270, or visit the website cravenmessiahchorus.org.

First Night New Bern, NC

First Night New Bern 2010®

(New Year’s Eve, December 31, 2009)

Come to New Bern on New Year's Eve 2009 and join family and friends to
ring in the 300th anniversary year - the beginning of a year-long celebration!

First Night® New Bern 2010 will be the opening event for The City of New Bern's 300th Anniversary Celebration. First Night® is an international celebration held in over 100 downtowns every New Year's Eve. It is arts-based and family oriented. New Bern First Night® will include over 30 sites for entertainment - many free events, some requiring purchase of a button for admission.
Children's Venue
3-6pm: New Bern Riverfront Convention Center (indoor and outdoor events)

Geared to Children 10 and under and their families.
Some Ticketed; Some Free
Performers & Games
• Magicians
• Dancers
• Jonkonnu
• Clowns
• Carnival Games
• Bounce Houses
• Dancing
•Arts
• Crafts
• Craven Smart Start Activities for ages 5 and under
• Face Painting
• Funky Hair Salon
• Bubble Wrap Stomp

New Bern History Bowl
(For all ages; Free to the public)

History

New Bern History Bowl - a year long monthly competition will begin this afternoon from 3 to 6 PM at the New Bern Riverfront Convention Center. Challenges will be held monthly at Orringer Auditorium at Craven Community College. Finalists to be determined 12/18/10. MORE INFORMATION

An interactive people's procession will leave the Children's Venue at the New Bern Riverfront Convention Center and go to Union Point Park for the first display of fireworks (Free to the public).

Family Venue
7-11pm: Downtown New Bern (indoor and outdoor events)
Music
• Jazz
• Chamber Music
• Country
• Gospel Choir
• Ballroom dancing
• Strolling musicians and historical figures
• Barber Shop Quartet (Free)
• Cold Biscuit
• Teresa James & The Rhythm Tramps (Blues)

• Rock
• Jonkonnu (Free)
Arts
• Craven Arts Council Exhibit
• Vaudeville at New Bern Civic Theatre
• Video at Tryon Palace Welcome Center (Free)
• Storyteller (Free)
• Lighted Water Feature
• Crafts
Various
• Resolutions
• Blues Brothers
• Comedian
• Food; hot dogs and cold (non-alcoholic) beverages
• Fireworks (Free)
An interactive people's procession will leave the corner of Pollock and Hancock Streets and meander via Middle Street to Union Point Park for a grand finale and midnight display of fireworks (Free to the public).
Information
Button Sales
Exchange for Button at Event
Purchase a button for entry to ALL ticketed events. Button sales will begin in October 2009 at the following locations:
* Mitchell Hardware
* Pepsi Store
* New Bern Riverfront Convention Center
* Chamber of Commerce
* First Citizens Bank (Corner of MLK Blvd. and Glenburnie Rd.)
$ 8.00 until 12/23/09
$10.00 after 12/23/09
Free - children 5 years and under
Button Sales Contact & First Night® Information
FirstNightNewBern@gmail.com
Volunteer Form
Click here to print the Volunteer Form
Volunteer Contact Sue Schrenk
History Bowl Information Click here to view History Bowl Information
History Bowl Application/Flyer Click here to print the History Bowl Application

Mr. and Mrs. Fezziwig’s Christmas Dance Party

Kick up your heels at Mr. and Mrs. Fezziwig’s Christmas Dance Party
Friday December 11!

Come visit the world of Charles Dickens’ imagination by learning the very dances young Ebenezer Scrooge may have footed at the Christmas party of his employer, Mr. Fezziwig…. At the Bank of the Arts in downtown New Bern, on December 11!

The dances will be English Country Dances from the Dickensian era, as well as simple modern contra dances. All the dances will be taught: no prior experience is required, and you don’t need to bring a partner. A beginner’s lesson will be offered at 7:00 p.m., and the dancing starts at 7:30.

Instruction and dance prompting will be provided by Mr. Fezziwig (Art Langrish), and fiddler Simon Spalding; Mrs. Fezziwig (Gloria Langrish) will also perform on the violin. Dancers are encouraged to come in clothing of the 19th century; but of course this is not required.

Bank of the Arts, 317 Middle Street, New Bern.
Admission Free!
Call the Bank of the Arts at 252-638-2577, or e-mail Simon Spalding for more information.

Voci Allegre Vocal Ensemble

Voci Allegre vocal ensemble is pleased to announce “A Very British Christmas,” its first concert of the 2009-2010 season. Sponsored jointly by Craven Arts Council and Gallery and First Baptist Church of New Bern, the performance will be held in the sanctuary of First Baptist Church (Middle Street) and begins at 6:00 PM on December 4, 2009.

Director Lorraine Hale has assembled a program of old favorites and lesser-known gems of literature from England, Wales, and the Isle of Man. Composers of the works to be presented range from the prolific “anonymous” to Henry VIII.

Performing with Hale will be soprano Brenda Hardee and contralto Yvonne Templeton. The group will be assisted by accompanist Barry Templeton.

The concert will include haunting melodies from medieval abbeys to rollicking secular folk tunes. A special feature will be Richard Smart’s song about the arrival of “Sir Christemas,” who appears and announces in French (!) the birth of Jesus and encourages the song’s auditors to drink a happy toast to the newborn savior.

Join Voci Allegre as the group ushers in the holiday season with its ever-popular Christmas concert (and sing-along). For more information, please call 638-2577.

Author: Director Lorraine Hale, Voci Allegre Vocal Ensemble

A Dickens of a Christmas Scavenger Hunt

Start your collection of Dickens Christmas Illustrations as seen in the Downtown Shop windows, by particiapating in the first Dickens Downtown Scavenger Hunt.

You will have the opportunity to win 3 of the illustrations (8 1/2 x 11") that appear in the downtown shop windows, and be entered in a drawing to win hotel accommodations at various vacation destinations, courtesy of Branch's.

How it works - A new puzzle starts each Friday

- November 27 (turn in by December 8)

- December 4 (turn in by December 14)

- December 11 (turn in by December 23).

Go into each participating merchant in the Downtown Business District (look for poster in the window), and pick up a puzzle piece, when you've collected all 20 put your puzzle together and turn it in at Branch's or the Four C's to receive a copy of the Iilustration on heavy paper, suitable for framing.

A winner will be announced on December 9, December 15 and December 24.

Start your collection this year!

For more information call Mary at the 4 c's (252) 636-3285 or Chris at Branch's.(252) 638-5171.

The Christmas Tree Ship Is Coming In

The Skipjack ADA MAE will be sailing into the Port of New Bern with another load of fresh cut Christmas trees on Saturday, November 28.“Skipjack Point” on the water at the end of Pollock Street, behind the Galley Store, at 3 PM to watch ADA MAE sail inADA MAE will be docking at the galley Store Marina and off loading fresh cut North Carolina Christmas trees.The trees will be sold as a fund raiser for Carolina Coastal Classrooms Inc. a local non-profit environmental education program.Come out and welcome the ship and this old fashioned tradition back to the of New Bern. It is a great way to start the holiday season with family and friends. The trees will be on sale through the holidays. The skipjack ADA MAE was built in 1915 at Rose Bay, North Carolina.She is the last examle of a commercial working sailing vessel built in North Carolina. ADA MAE was used to dredge for oysters on the Pamlico Sound and coastal rivers of on North Carolina from 1915 until 1946.She was also used to haul North Carolina produce and lumber up to Baltimore, Maryland each summer. For more information about this fun holiday event, contact Capt. Ben Bunn633-3140 or 670-8856.http://www.carolinacoastalclassrooms.com www.carolinacoastalclassrooms.comto learn more. Capt Ben and Crew look forward to seeing you there.

Breakfast with Santa

Breakfast with Santa, :New Bern Riverfront Convention Center, 203 South Front Street, New Bern, NC

Enjoy this community holiday fund-raising event for the Craven Regional Medical Center Foundation. Breakfast with Santa will include breakfast, crafts, and pictures with Santa. Mrs. Claus will be available for story time. KIDZone activities with raffle tree and a children's only gift shop "Under the Tree" will also be available. For more information, please email santa@coastalnet.com.

Children and Adults - $12 per person

Website:www.crmcfoundation.com

Organization:Craven Regional Medical Center Foundation

Contact: Amy Willis Phone 252-633-8247 or email awillis@coastalnet.com

Please make sure reservation early. Seating is limited!

We will have beautifully decorated trees, wreaths and garlands available for purchase.

Fraser's Wine & Cheese Gourmet Shoppe

• Address: 210 Middle St., New Bern, NC, 28560 | Map It
• Phone: 252/634-2580

• Category: Food/Candy
• Location: New Bern

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Fodor's Review:

Fraser's Wine & Cheese Gourmet Shoppe, a specialty food shop, has an enviable international wine selection and imported chocolates.

New Bern Historic Bed and Breakfasts Holiday Tour and Open House

The Bed & Breakfasts of New Bern are hosting a Holiday Open House Sunday, December 6th from 2 pm until 5 pm. This is your chance to take a peek inside these eight historic homes.

Join the yuletide celebration! You'll see beautiful decorations, have a tour of the homes, refreshments, caroling, meet Santa, and more!!

This New Bern holiday tradition is free and open to the public.

Take an easy walking tour in Historic Downtown New Bern on Sunday, December 6th 2pm until 5pm.

For more information call The Aerie, (800) 849-5553 or (252) 636-5553.

Bern Bear Gifts

A favorite gift shop on the corner of Pollock & Craven Streets.

Juliette's Boutique

Juliette's Boutique, 236 Middle Street, New Bern, NC 252-514-9800

The Next Chapter Bookstore

A great little book shop at 320 South Front Street, Downtown New Bern. 633-5774.