By the Bridge Restaurant

Mullet Festival of North Carolina

Join us for the 71st Annual Swansboro Mullet Festival of North Carolina in Historic Downtown Swansboro. (More details to follow!)

Free Admission | Rain or Shine Event

Pre-order your 70th Annual Swansboro Mullet Festival T-shirt!
Click Here!

What began as a small potluck-style gathering to celebrate the completion of the bridge over the White Oak River is now a highly anticipated part of Eastern North Carolina culture and the oldest festival on North Carolina's Crystal Coast.

The occasion celebrates the mullet, a species of fish found in Eastern North Carolina waters. Swansboro natives remember days long ago when mullets were hauled to shore in nets hooked to tractors along the beach. Back in 1954, mullet fed the workers building the White Oak River Bridge.

Photo Credit: Swansboro Historical Assn. | Frank Tursi | Charles Farrells

The White Oak River Bridge now serves as a vital link between Onslow and Carteret counties. Upon its completion, the conception of the Mullet Festival began as a way for the communities to celebrate the arrival of the modern era – in bridge form – and that spirit of celebration continues, 70 years later!

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Plan Your Mullet Festival Getaway to Swansboro!

It's a perfect fall weekend to discover the charm of our quaint and historic coastal town. Book your stay for a FUN-filled Mullet Festival Weekend at our award-winning Hampton Inn & Suites – Swansboro!

The weekend festivities kick off on Friday, October 11th, with the traditional Blessing of the Fleet at Casper's Marina at 6 pm. This is a very festive occasion, for both spectators and boat owners. All are welcome to participate. As the tradition continues, a wreath will be dropped in memory of the boat owners who have passed on.

Check out the Mullet Festival Music Line Up!

All Drone Photos: Todd Dini

For a complete line-up of the 70th Annual Swansboro Mullet Festival of NC happenings, head over to the

Swansboro Festivals Website

Enjoy the convenience of transportation to Historic Downtown Swansboro via the Mullet Festival FREE PARKING SHUTTLE running throughout the weekend from Ward Farm just behind the Hampton Inn – Swansboro off of Hwy 24!

Out of care and concern for your companion animals, please leave pets at home. However, we do allow trained service dogs to accompany a person with a disability, per the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Fall Fishing & Boating

Find out more about fishing and boating in Swansboro. Let our expert local fishing charters, outfitters, and eco-tour operators provide some of the most amazing and relaxing experiences on the water along North Carolina's Coast.

Download our Merchants & Restaurants Guide

We look forward to seeing you in Swansboro!

Humphrey Farm General Store

Swansboro Independence Day Celebration

Historic Downtown Swansboro Waterfront
Admission: Free

Get ready to celebrate Independence Day with us in beautiful, historic Swansboro! Join friends, family, and neighbors for an unforgettable evening of live music, delicious food, and dazzling fireworks over the waterfront.

🍔 Savor Swansboro’s coastal flavors at our local restaurants or enjoy a tasty bite from one of the food trucks onsite.

🎇 The night ends with a spectacular fireworks display over the water—a perfect way to celebrate our nation's independence!

🎆 This is a family-friendly event! For safety reasons, we ask attendees to follow these guidelines: No pets, bicycles, or skateboards.

🎶 Entertainment begins at 6 PM with a performance by the legendary Tams at Olde Towne Square’s Harry C. Pugliese Pavilion. Bring a lawn chair and your dancing shoes and settle in for a night of music and fun!

Plan Now for your 4th of July Weekend, Late Summer, or ***Fall* *Getaway*** to Swansboro!

It's a perfect time to plan your adventure! Discover the charm of our quaint and historic coastal town.

Book your getaway at our award-winning Hampton Inn & Suites Swansboro or one of our unique Airbnbs, or VRBOs!

Thank you to our Sponsors!

🚗 Event Details and Street Closures

🅿️ More Parking Details for Thursday, July 3rd

Town Hall will be designated handicapped parking ONLY — the entire lot will be reserved for those with proper credentials.
• Golf cart shuttles will run from Town Hall to downtown
General parking will be available at:
• Swansboro Municipal Park fields
• Ward Farm (behind the Hampton Inn)

There will be NO SHUTTLE SERVICE — all attendees must walk from the general parking areas to downtown. Please plan accordingly.

The Swansboro Fire Department will have a crosswalk on Hwy 24 (at the fire station) to help everyone cross safely.

We appreciate your patience and kindness to our volunteers who are working hard to park everyone safely and efficiently.

Questions? Call the Swansboro Recreation Center at 910-326-2600.
Let’s make it a safe and fun celebration for all!

🚧 Street Closures

In preparation for the Independence Day festivities, streets will be closed from 3 PM to approximately 11 PM. We kindly ask for your cooperation in ensuring that all vehicles are removed from the affected streets by 3 PM.

Front Street – entire length
Church Street – entire length
Water Street – from NC 24 to Broad Street
Main Street – from Elm Street to the waterfront
Elm Street – open for southbound traffic
Walnut Street – open for northbound traffic

🐾 For everyone’s safety and enjoyment, please remember that no pets, bicycles, or skateboards are permitted during the event.

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Hearts & Horizons Getaway to Swansboro

Glamour and Grace Boutique

Moore’s Olde Tyme BBQ Chicken & Seafood