7 Dates you should Avoid when planning your wedding date in Eastern North Carolina.

Plan Ahead: Major Annual Events in Eastern North Carolina You Need to Know About

Whether you're a local, a wedding vendor, or planning a special celebration on the Crystal Coast, it pays to know when the region is buzzing with major events. From early spring festivals to lively summer traditions and packed fall weekends, the Crystal Coast has a calendar full of happenings that can affect everything from lodging availability to traffic and parking. Here's a seasonal guide to the most notable events in the area:

🌸 Spring

1. Emerald Isle St. Patrick’s Festival (Emerald Isle)Usually held in mid-March, this family-friendly celebration draws large crowds and fills up area lodging quickly. Expect road delays along Highway 58 as festival-goers flood into town.

2. Mardi Gras (Beaufort)This vibrant event typically takes place in early March and is a hit with families. While the beads and jazz are fun, keep in mind that parking and accommodations can be a challenge during this weekend.

3. Beaufort Wine and Food Festival (Beaufort)Taking place in late April, this upscale event spans several days and brings in foodies and wine lovers from all over. Hotels and vacation rentals are usually booked well in advance, and parking in downtown Beaufort can be tricky.

☀️ Summer

4. Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament (Morehead City)Held in early June, this renowned fishing tournament is a cornerstone summer event. It draws national attention and floods Morehead City with visitors. If you’re planning a trip around this time, be sure to secure accommodations months in advance.

5. Beaufort Pirate Invasion (Beaufort)Scheduled for mid-August, this swashbuckling event turns Beaufort into a pirate’s playground. With ships, reenactments, and entertainment galore, it’s a family favorite—but also one of the most congested weekends of the summer.

🍂 Fall

6. NC Seafood Festival (Morehead City)Taking place in early October, this is one of the largest events on the Crystal Coast. Expect major traffic, bustling crowds, and booked hotels as seafood lovers from across the state descend on Morehead City.

7. Mumfest (New Bern)Happening in mid-October, Mumfest is one of Eastern North Carolina’s most anticipated festivals. Downtown New Bern comes alive with music, food, flowers, and family activities. It’s a fantastic event, but visitors should prepare for heavy traffic and limited parking.

🎉 Why This Matters for Wedding and Event Planning

If you're a couple planning a wedding or an event professional supporting clients in the Crystal Coast region, it's essential to be aware of these dates. These high-traffic weekends can impact:

• Venue and lodging availability

• Guest accommodations and travel time

• Vendor bookings and pricing

• Parking and transportation logistics

  
  

Mark your calendar and consider these events as you select your dates. A little foresight goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and stress-free celebration! Download this free guide to help you when looking for the best time of year to plan your wedding!