Swansboro Mullet Festival
Swansboro Mullet Festival of North Carolina
Every fall, the charming waterfront town of Swansboro comes alive with one of the oldest festivals in eastern North Carolina — the Annual Swansboro Mullet Festival of North Carolina. Now in its 71st year, this beloved celebration returns October 11–12, 2025, filling the streets of downtown with music, food, and community spirit.
The festivities kick off on Saturday morning with a lively parade at 9:00 AM, rolling down Highway 24 and into the heart of historic Swansboro. From there, the day unfolds into a true small-town street party. Dozens of local vendors set up shop downtown, offering arts and crafts, unique gifts, and plenty of festival treats. The air carries the aroma of fried mullet — the star of the weekend — served up alongside hushpuppies, slaw, and beans at the festival’s famous fish fry. For those craving variety, food trucks and concession stands line the streets with everything from classic fair favorites to coastal Carolina specialties.
Music is always at the heart of the Mullet Festival, and this year’s lineup promises to keep the crowd moving all weekend long. Local and regional bands will take the stage at the Pugliese Pavilion and throughout downtown, providing the perfect soundtrack as visitors browse vendors, enjoy the food, or dance along with neighbors. Families will also find plenty to enjoy, with a dedicated kids’ area featuring games, inflatables, and even the crowd-favorite mullet toss competition.
The celebration extends beyond the main streets, with highlights like the Blessing of the Fleet on Friday evening at Casper’s Marina, a moving tradition that honors Swansboro’s maritime heritage. On Saturday, the U.S. Marine Corps joins the fun with a static vehicle display along Main Street, drawing both kids and adults to explore up close.
What makes the Mullet Festival so special isn’t just the food or the entertainment, but the sense of community it inspires. Generations of families have made this event part of their fall tradition, gathering to laugh, eat, and celebrate coastal Carolina culture. Presented by Team Chevrolet Swansboro, the Mullet Festival continues to embody the hospitality and spirit that make Swansboro one of the most welcoming towns on the Crystal Coast.
So mark your calendars for October 11–12, 2025, and join thousands of locals and visitors alike for two days of small-town fun, coastal flavor, and plenty of fried mullet.