Mullet Festival of North Carolina

Join us for the 70th Annual Swansboro Mullet Festival of North Carolina in Historic Downtown Swansboro.

Free Admission | Rain or Shine Event
Festival Logo Design by
What the Fin Apparel

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!

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.

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 off of Hwy 24!

The Mullet Festival is jam-packed with live music! Stay tuned for more details to follow!

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!

Swansboro Independence Day Celebration

Join us for the Town of Swansboro Independence Day Celebration and Fireworks Show along Swansboro's Historic Downtown Waterfront!

Admission is Free!

Enjoy all the evening's festivities starting with The Cat5 Band in Olde Town Square at the Harry C. Pugliese Pavillion at 6 pm. Grab a bite for dinner at one of our amazing local eateries or one of the food trucks that will be onsite.

🇺🇲 Singing of the National Anthem by the award-winning Nashville recording artist, Velvet Rodeo, and an awe-inspiring fireworks show over the water will start at sunset!

Streets will be closed on July 3rd from 3 pm until approximately 11 pm. Please ensure all vehicles are removed from the downtown streets promptly by 3 pm. We thank you for your cooperation.

Street closures are as follows:

Front Street – from Main Street to Church Street
Church Street – from Front Street to Water Street
Water Street – from Church Street to Main Street
Main Street will be closed at Water Street for eastbound traffic

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

Plan Your 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 stay at our award-winning Hampton Inn & Suites Swansboro or at one of our Airbnbs, VRBOs or Vacation Rentals!

Don't miss the 70th Anniversary of the Swansboro Mullet Festival of NC!