The best arts & culture spots in New Bern

“Get a quick hit of hometown pride this week at New Bern Firemen's Museum, where the state’s oldest fire company comes to life, the Great Fire of ’22 is retold with goosebump detail, and kids can “meet” Fred the beloved fire horse. Perfect rainy-day or grandparent visit.”

From the New Bern newsletter, September 16, 2026

“RiverTowne Players keeps the local stage buzzing with family-friendly musicals and sharp plays, from youth-led spotlights to Poe-inspired mysteries and island-swept love stories. If your week needs a little drama in the best way, grab a seat and let our neighbors wow you.”

From the New Bern newsletter, September 19, 2026

“New Bern Civic Theatre keeps the calendar packed with homegrown musicals, sharp plays, and Walk-In Bathtub Improv, plus the Saax Bradbury Teen Players and other programs that grow local talent. If you’ve been meaning to see something live, consider this your nudge to grab a seat this week.”

From the New Bern newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Skip the same-old weekend routine and drop into the North Carolina History Center at Tryon Palace, where the Pepsi Family Center lets you play your way through the past, the Regional History Museum and Duffy Exhibition Gallery keep exhibits fresh, and Lawsons on the Creek rewards you with Trent River views.”

From the New Bern newsletter, September 9, 2026

“New Bern Academy Museum lives inside its 1809 schoolhouse, where original classrooms hold exhibits on Civil War occupation, the Battle of New Bern, the city’s architecture, and a Lancasterian schoolroom. Give your brain a local field trip this week, then impress friends with oddly specific New Bern facts.”

From the New Bern newsletter, August 25, 2026