Crystal Coast Vibes December 12-18

Friday, December 12

• The Nutcracker Ballet at the New Bern Civic Theater, New Bern.
  The classic favorite The Nutcracker Ballet that brings a child’s fantastical Christmas Eve dream to life with a dizzying array of dancing dolls, toys, creatures and, of course, the nutcracker.
  7:30 pm | $20

• Family Spread with Santa in a Magical Greenhouse at Carolina Home and Garden, Newport.
  A unique and magical Christmas filled evening in the lovely new event greenhouse with Santa!
  6:30-8:30 pm | See the event website for prices

• Highland Holidays at Joslyn Hall, Morehead City.
  An unforgettable evening filled with the exhilarating sounds of live musicians, the captivating strength of Highland dancers, and the stirring melodies of the Highland bagpipes.
  7:30-9:30 pm | $25-$50

• Star Hill Golf Club's Annual Christmas Party at Gaffers Event Center, Emerald Isle.
  Get ready to jingle and mingle at Star Hill Golf Club's Annual Christmas Party - it's going to be a festive blast! The public is welcome.
  6:30-10:30 pm | $53.87 - $76.02

• Annual John Costlow Christmas Train Show at Harvey W. Smith Watercraft Center, Beaufort.
  Featuring antique working model trains and model trains of all sizes. The train layouts will range from simple circles traditionally found around the Christmas tree to more elaborate systems.
  4-7 pm | Free admission

• Tour of Gertrude Hurst Hall at Hammocks Beach State Park, Swansboro.
  See the newly renovated historic Gertrude Hurst Hall. Learn about the origins of this building and history behind it.
  3-4 pm | Free, registration is required

• The Rivertown Players present Anastasia at the Masonic Theater, New Bern.
  Inspired by the legend of Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaevna, this captivating production transports audiences from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the vibrant streets of 1920s Paris.
  7:30 pm | $20, Students $10

• The Nutcracker Ballet at the New Bern Civic Theater, New Bern.
  The classic favorite The Nutcracker Ballet that brings a child’s fantastical Christmas Eve dream to life with a dizzying array of dancing dolls, toys, creatures and, of course, the nutcracker.
  7:30 pm | $20

• Brews & Booze Book Clubs at Historic Grounds Coffee Shop, Beaufort.
  Dive into Truman Capote’s “A Christmas Memory” and celebrate with a cozy seasonal wine cocktail crafted just for the night. Bring a wrapped book for the Christmas Book Exchange.
  6-7:30 pm

• Carols and Treats Sing Along at The White Rabbit Cafe, Morehead City.
  6-8 pm | Adults: $25, Children (12 & under): $12 , Family of 4 Bundle: $60

• Astronomy Night at Fort Macon State Park, Atlantic Beach.
  Ranger Paul Terry will discuss the night sky and have telescopes set up for viewing. This is a clear weather event and may be canceled due to rain or heavy cloud cover.
  6-9 pm

Saturday, December 13

• Crystal Coast Choral Society resents Rhapsody in Bluegrass - a Christmas Jubilee at the Swansboro United Methodist Church, Swansboro.
  The annual Crystal Coast Choral Society Christmas Concert.
  7 pm | Free, suggested donation - $10

• Candlelight 2025 at Tryon Palace, New Bern.
  Tryon Palace’s famed holiday event showcasing the beautifully decorated Governor’s Mansion illuminated by the magical glow of candlelight. As you travel from one decorated room to another within the Palace, fabulously costumed interpreters present an engaging story that relates to back to the Palace’s colonial history.
  4:30 – 9:30 pm | See the website for prices

• Annual John Costlow Christmas Train Show at Harvey W. Smith Watercraft Center, Beaufort.
  Featuring antique working model trains and model trains of all sizes. The train layouts will range from simple circles traditionally found around the Christmas tree to more elaborate systems.
  4-7 pm | Free admission

• Homemade Pasta Class at Christina's A Wine Boutique, Cedar Point.
  Learn the art of this Italian classic while enjoying perfectly curated wine pairings.
  5 pm | $65, $115 for two

• Breakfast with Santa at Fat Fella's BBQ and Grille. Newport.
  Enjoy a festive morning and have your photo taken with Santa while having breakfast.
  8:15-10:15 am

• The Nutcracker Ballet at the New Bern Civic Theater, New Bern.
  The classic favorite The Nutcracker Ballet that brings a child’s fantastical Christmas Eve dream to life with a dizzying array of dancing dolls, toys, creatures and, of course, the nutcracker.
  2 pm and 7:30 pm | $20

• The Rivertown Players present Anastasia at the Masonic Theater, New Bern.
  Inspired by the legend of Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaevna, this captivating production transports audiences from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the vibrant streets of 1920s Paris.
  7:30 pm | $20, Students $10

•  Family Spread with Santa in a Magical Greenhouse at Carolina Home and Garden, Newport.
  A unique and magical Christmas filled evening in the lovely new event greenhouse with Santa!
  6:30-8:30 pm | See the event website for prices

• Grunch with the Grinch at 34° North Restaurant, Beaufort.
  This isn’t your average brunch—it’s Grunch! Expect jolly bites, playful banter, and a Grinch who’s more charming than grumpy (well, almost).
  11 am-2 pm

• Highland Holidays at Orringer Community College, New Bern.
  An unforgettable evening filled with the exhilarating sounds of live musicians, the captivating strength of Highland dancers, and the stirring melodies of the Highland bagpipes.
  7:30-9:30 pm | $25-$50

• Morehead City Christmas Parade at Downtown Morehead City.
  This parade will be held in downtown Morehead City, along Arendell Street, beginning at 11 a.m. Come early for the best viewing spot! 
  11 am-1 pm | Free

• 13th Annual Gingerbread Festival at Crystal Coast Civic Center, Morehead City.
  The festival will feature a variety of holiday activities for all ages.
  5 pm

• Breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus at Gaffer's, Emerald Isle
  A jolly morning filled with hot cocoa, festive treats, and holiday cheer with Santa and Mrs. Claus!
  9-11 am | See the website for prices

• A Blue Christmas at Carolina Home and Garden, Newport.
  The "King" returns for a Blue Christmas special at Carolina Home and Garden, with Elvis impersonator Josh Rush.
  5-6 pm | Tickets $25 per person, $15 for 12 and under

• Beaufort Holiday Art Walk, Beaufort.
  Enjoy a festive afternoon in Historic Downtown Beaufort from 1–4 p.m.! Celebrate the season while exploring a wide variety of art by regional artists showcased throughout downtown shops, galleries, and restaurants.
  1-4 pm | Free

• Historic Beaufort Candlelight Tour, Beaufort.
  Local homeowners, churches, and inns will open their doors so the public can delight in their festive atmosphere and decorations. The Beaufort Historic Site buildings will also be open.
  5-8 pm | $25

• Holiday Craft Show at History Museum of Carteret County, Morehead City.
  A lively day filled with community, creativity, holiday treats and treasures, and Santa!
  10 am-3 pm | Free admission

• Olde-Fashioned Holiday Market at Olde Beaufort Farmers Market, Beaufort
  Local artisans, handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats, and holiday cheer under the twinkling lights and oaks. Enjoy delicious food and live music.
  3-7 pm

• Christmas Market at Living Waters Church of God of Prophecy, Bogue.
  Hear the story of Jesus birth, play games, build a gingerbread house, make an ornament. There will be vendors on site as well.
  5 pm | Free admission

• Johnson,Tucker and Womble Art Show Opening at Mattie King Davis Art Gallery, Beaufort.
  The Mattie King Davis Art Gallery welcomes artists Mandy Johnson, Lisa Tuchek, and Jimmy Craig Womble for their annual holiday art show.
  4:30-6 pm | Free

• Santa in the Sunroom at Carolina Home and Garden, Newport.
  Bring your family to visit and take pictures with Santa and create lasting memories. Join in a festive session with Santa Claus that you'll cherish for years to come.
  11 am-3 pm | $15.38 per family, $10.15 for the Grinch

• Christmas Market at Thirsty Surfer, Emerald Isle.
  A perfect time to shop for Christmas gifts and be among the holiday cheer!
  1-4 pm | Free admission

• The Spirit of Christmas: Dickens Themed Dinner at The White Rabbit Cafe, Morehead City
  6-8 pm | $75

• Sip & Sweaters at Harvest of Grace Winery, Newport.
  Pull out your tackiest, most joyful holiday sweater and join in a festive day of wine, laughter, and friendly competition!
  2-6 pm

• The Carteret Community Sunshine Band at Carteret County Civic Center, Morehead City.
  The Sunshine Band will be performing at the 13th Annual Crystal Coast Hospice House Gingerbread Festival, benefitting the Crystal Coast Hospice House.
  4-5:30 pm

• BBA Presents Fisherman Santa and Santa Fish House, Beaufort.
  Cast your holiday wishes and reel in the Christmas magic.
  Photos, treats, and seaside cheer for the whole family!
  11 am-3 pm

Sunday, December 14

• Annual John Costlow Christmas Train Show at Harvey W. Smith Watercraft Center, Beaufort.
  Featuring antique working model trains and model trains of all sizes. The train layouts will range from simple circles traditionally found around the Christmas tree to more elaborate systems.
  11 am-4 pm | Free admission

• Trailwork at Hammocks Beach State Park, Swansboro.
  Volunteer trailwork at the park.
  11 am-2 pm

• Coastal Craft Series at Hammocks Beach State Park, Swansboro.
  Bring your creative side to the park and learn about some of the unique beach findings and what crafty ways can be applied with them.
  2-3 pm | Free, registration is required

• The Rivertown Players present Anastasia at the Masonic Theater, New Bern.
  Inspired by the legend of Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaevna, this captivating production transports audiences from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the vibrant streets of 1920s Paris.
  3 pm | $20, Students $10

• The Nutcracker Ballet at the New Bern Civic Theater, New Bern.
  The classic favorite The Nutcracker Ballet that brings a child’s fantastical Christmas Eve dream to life with a dizzying array of dancing dolls, toys, creatures and, of course, the nutcracker.
  2 pm | $20

• Family Christmas Brunch with Santa at Carolina Home and Garden, Newport.
  Brunch with Santa in a Magical Greenhouse.
  12:30-2:30 pm | See the event website for prices

• 13th Annual Gingerbread Festival at Crystal Coast Civic Center, Morehead City.
  The festival will feature a variety of holiday activities for all ages.
  5 pm

• Mountain Brook Pop-up Wine Tasting at Carolina Home and Garden, Newport.
  Enjoy a selection of wines from Mountain Brook Winery in a beautiful, relaxed setting.
  Noon

• Santa in the Sunroom at Carolina Home and Garden, Newport.
  Bring your family to visit and take pictures with Santa and create lasting memories. Join in a festive session with Santa Claus that you'll cherish for years to come.
  11 am-3 pm | $15.38 per family, $10.15 for the Grinch

Monday, December 15

• Spanish Wine Tasting at Baxters 1892, New Bern.
  An exclusive evening celebrating the bold and beautiful wines of Spain. Enjoy five carefully selected wines and a curated pick-and-graze charcuterie board with an array of artisan cheeses and accompaniments to complement the wines.
  5 pm | $63

Tuesday, December 16

• Owl Prowl at Hammocks Beach State Park, Swansboro.
  Learn about some of our owl species, their habitats, and tips of what you can do to help these night watchers.
  5-6 pm | Free

• Staghorn Fern Mounting Class at Carolina Home & Garden, Newport.
  Learn how to mount and care for the unique Staghorn fern, while creating a stunning living display for your home or garden.
  6-8 pm | $55, $15 Small Charcuterie Box, $25 Large Charcuterie Box

• The Wizards of Winter at Crystal Coast Civic Center, Morehead City.
  Featuring former members of Classic Rock Bands-The Trans- Siberian Orchestra, Def Leppard, Trixter,Rainbow, Blue Oyster Cult, and Broadway veterans . The Wizards of Winter perform a family friendly, holiday rock show titled " The Christmas Dream".
  7-9 pm | $46.38

• “Holidays Around the World” Wine Dinner at Preston’s Corner, Swansboro.
  A wine dinner with exceptional food pairings, hearty dishes and different wines than you’ve experienced before.
  6-8 pm | $99

• WineOrama at Aqua Restaurant. Beaufort.
  Enjoy a flight of four new wines.
  6-8:30 pm | $15

• Wine Tasting at Carolina Home and Garden, Newport.
  Learn about and taste four incredible wines, including a German Gluhwein which is a holiday favorite!
  6-8 pm | $15, $15 Small Charcuterie Box, $25 Large Charcuterie Box

Wednesday, December 17

• Santa in the Greenroom at Carolina Home and Garden, Newport.
  Visit Santa Claus on a quieter Wednesday evening and enjoy a relaxed, magical holiday experience.
  5:30-8:30 pm | $25.63

• Bird Cruise at Hammocks Beach State Park, Swansboro.
  A guided bird cruise exploring the rich estuarine habitats around Hammocks Beach State Park. This ranger led event will help you identify wading birds, shorebirds, raptors, and seasonal migrants along the way.
  11 am-Noon | Free

• The Christmas Dilemma at Parkview Baptist Church, Morehead City.
  A delightful and unique play and music program that presents a fresh and inspiring look at the Christmas story.
  6:30-8 pm | Free

• Owl Prowl Bird Walk at NC Aquarium, Pine Knoll Shores.
  An evening hike to search for these elusive birds of prey. Listen for their calls, learn about their amazing adaptations, and end the night with a special up-close encounter with an owl ambassador.
  4-5:30 pm | $15, $13.50 Members

• Music Bingo at Carolina Home and Gardens, Newport.
  Songs from all different genres. Sing along as you play against your friends and family.
  6:30-8:30 pm | $5, $15 Small Charcuterie Box, $25 Large Charcuterie Box

Thursday, December 18

• Natural Side of Fort Macon at Fort Macon State Park, Atlantic Beach.
  A leisurely hike exploring the natural side of Fort Macon, covering both trail and beach.
  10-11 am

• Menhaden Whisky Society at 34° North Restaurant, Beaufort.
  Whisky lovers gather to explore, taste, and honor Beaufort’s legacy—from storied barrels to fishing boats with themed tastings, spirited discussions, and unforgettable pairings inspired by the town’s maritime soul.
  6-8 pm | $40 plus tax and service charge

Future Events

• Smoke on the Water Bonfire at Atlantic Beach.
  January 2, 2026

• Casino Royale at The Islander Hotel and Resort, Emerald Isle.
  January 10, 2026

• The Underpants by Steve Martin at New Bern Civic Theater, New Bern.
  January 30, 31, February 1, 6, 7, 8, 2026

Recurring Events

• Pop-up Park: City Lights at Morehead City Depot Park, Morehead City.
  Every night, from late November through December, this free pop-up park will be adorned with a variety of Christmas lights and decorations. Check the website for the dates and times of Santa’s appearances.
  6-8 pm | Free

• Holiday Show at Carolina Artist Gallery, Morehead City |Multimedia art show & sale | Daily 11 am-5 pm

• Gallery of Trees: Telling our story at Core Sound Waterfowl Museum and Heritage Center, Harker’s Island | Daily through January 9, 2026 |
  11 am-5 pm

• Outdoor Ice Skating at Beaufort Hotel, Beaufort.
  Monday - Thursday December 1, 2025 - February 12, 2026.
  4-8 pm | $10

• Beach Yoga Every Day - Western Beach Access, Emerald Isle | Daily 8 am | Donation

• Championship Trivia at Snapperz Grill, Morehead City | Mondays |
  6:30 pm

• Roosevelt Natural Area Paddle Trip - NC Aquarium, Pine Knoll Shores.
  Explore tidal flats and quiet backwaters with an aquarium educator as you learn about the intricate web of life thriving in this pristine natural environment. Mondays and Wednesdays 9-11 am | $

• Taproom Trivia at Nacho Brewery | Morehead City | Wednesdays | 7-9 pm

• Music Bingo at The Dock House, Beaufort | Tuesdays | 6:30-8:30 pm

• Trivia Tuesday - The Emerald Club, Emerald Isle | Tuesdays 7:30-9:15 pm

• Free Admission Wednesday - Grace Adventure Park | Carolina Home and Garden, Newport | 2-6 pm Wednesdays | Free

• Music Bingo at Nacho Brewery | Morehead City | Wednesdays | 7-9 pm

• Small Arms Demo at Fort Macon State Park- Fort Macon, Atlantic Beach | Wednesdays 10:30-11 am | Free | Small Arms history and demonstrations.

• It's All Write - Western Carteret Library, Cape Carteret | 1st and 3rd Wednesdays 4-5:30 pm | 18+ | Writer’s Group Workshop.

• Booze Farm Bingo - Bogue Sound Distillery, Bogue | Wednesdays
  6-10 pm | 21+ only

• Musical Bingo - The Trading Post, Emerald Isle | Wednesdays 7-9 pm

• Cru Collabs: Open Jam for Musicians and Djs at Cru Bar, Beaufort | Thursdays | 7-11 pm

• Boot & Brews Line Dancing - Dancing Baristas Cafe, Beaufort | Thursdays

• Thursday Night Flights - MF Chappell Wine Merchant, Atlantic Beach | Thursdays 5-6:30 pm | $ | Wine Tasting.

• Weekly Trivia - Church Street Market & Pub, Swansboro | Thursdays |
  6:30 pm

• Almost Live Concert Karaoke - Bogue Sound Distillery, Bogue | Thursdays | 7-11 pm

• Learn Surf Fishing - Pine Knoll Shores. | Fridays | 8-10 am | $25

• Friday Night Flights - 34° North Restaurant, Beaufort. | Beaufort | Fridays | 5-10 pm | $ | Whisky flights

• Bingo Beats Saturdays - Billfish Coastal Grill & Bar, Indian Beach. Music Bingo! | Saturdays | 7-9 pm

• Karaoke Night - Tackle Box Tavern, Atlantic Beach | Saturdays 9:30 pm -
  2 am

• Lil Story Time - The Periwinkle, Beaufort | Saturdays 10:30 am - 1:30 pm | Free

• Olde Beaufort Farmers Market - Beaufort. | Saturdays 9 am - 1 pm

• Saturday Farmer’s Market - The Market at Cedar Point | Saturdays
  10 am - 2 pm

A Swansboro High School marching band student, percussionist Peyton Gordon, will join performers from across the nation as part of the Bands of America Honor Band in the 2026 Rose Parade in Pasadena, California.

The 137th Rose Parade will begin at 11 a.m. Eastern Standard Time on Jan. 1 and is themed “The Magic in Teamwork.”

Congratulations, Peyton!

Friday, December 12

• Music in the Mullet Bar featuring Micah Peedin @ Promise Land Market |
  Morehead City | 8 pm

• Spare Change @ Jack's Waterfront Bar | Morehead City | 9 pm-1 am

• Bob Laverty Duo @ Gaffer's | Emerald Isle | 6-9 pm

• Rollin' Woods @ 34° North Restaurant | Beaufort | 8-11 pm

• NRP Ryme @ Bogue Sound Distillery | Bogue | 7-10 pm

• Kyle Marshall @ Preston’s Corner | Swansboro | 7-10 pm

• Dale Moore @ Baxter’s 1892 | New Bern | 7-10 pm

• Beth & Dee @ The Flying Fox | New Bern | 8-11 pm

• Smokehouse @ Pinky’s Pub | New Bern | 7:30-10:30

Saturday, December 13

• The Will & Tony Show @ 34° North Restaurant | Beaufort | 8-11 pm

• Hank Barbee @ Preston’s Corner | Swansboro | 7-10 pm

• The Gas Money Band @ Bogue Sound Distillery | Bogue | 7-10 pm

• Hank Barbee @ Thirsty Surfer | Emerald Isle | 1-4 pm

• Mikele Buck Duo @ Gaffer's | Emerald Isle | 6-9 pm

• Patrick Smith @ Carolina Home and Garden | Newport | 6 pm

• The Lost Artist @ King Mackerels | Morehead City | 10 pm-1 am

• Barry Charlton @ Southern Salt | Morehead City | Noon-3 pm

• Voices Carry @ Mill Whistle Brewing | Beaufort | 5-7 pm

• Thorn @ Emerald Club | Emerald Isle | 9:30 pm

• John Van Dyke @ Baxter’s 1892 | New Bern | 7-10 pm | $4

• The Revelers @ Blackbeard’s Triple Play | New Bern | 7:30-11 pm

• Hot Buttered Grits @ The Flying Fox | New Bern | 8-11 pm

• Bridge Atlantic @ Pinky’s Pub | New Bern | 7:30

Sunday, December 14

• Nannette Garrett @ Bogue Sound Distillery | Bogue | 2-5 pm

• Barry Charlton @ Southern Salt | Morehead City | Noon-3 pm

• Hank & friends Christmas Hoedown @ Cru Bar | Beaufort | 3 pm

• Justin Lacy @ Carolina Home and Garden | Newport | Noon-4 pm

• Piano Brunch with Hans Werner @ Baxter’s 1892 | New Bern | 11 am-2 pm

• Dayton Vesper @ Baxter’s 1892 | New Bern | 5-7 pm

Monday, December 15

• Singo! @ Rock the Dock | Morehead City | 6 pm

• Bryan Mayer @ Preston’s Corner | Swansboro | 7-10 pm

• Jim Kohler and Friends @ Blackbeard’s Triple Play | New Bern | 7-10 pm

Wednesday, December 17

• Burgers & Brews with Brian Felton @ Gaffers | Emerald Isle | 5:45-8:45pm

• Sophia O’Yenik @ Baxter’s 1892 | New Bern | 5:30-7:30 pm

Thursday, December 18

• Hank Barbee @ Carolina Home and Garden | Newport | 6 pm

• Quincy Jones @ Baxter’s 1892 | New Bern | 5:30-8:30 pm

Some venues listed here might have a cover charge. Events and times can be subject to change.