Beary Merry Christmas in New Bern
Create Holiday Memories
From joyful family traditions to festive moments with friends, Beary Merry Christmas is designed to help you create unforgettable holiday memories. Whether it’s watching Santa’s magical arrival, wandering through the sparkling lights of downtown, or taking part in our holiday-themed scavenger hunt, there’s something special for all ages.
Explore Downtown Magic
Each corner of downtown New Bern is bursting with holiday cheer! Discover whimsical window displays, enjoy late-night shopping on Thursdays, and immerse yourself in the seasonal joy that fills our local businesses. Support small shops, find unique gifts, and make this holiday season even brighter.
Stay Updated with Event Details
We want you to enjoy every moment of Beary Merry Christmas. Be sure to check back here for updates on event times, dates, and any special surprises we have in store!
Santa Experience
Please read through information below regarding the 2024 Santa Experience.
Arrival
- Please arrive **no more than 15 minutes before** your arrival time.
- Enter the waiting area upon arrival. Note that your reservation is an "arrival time" rather than a specific "appointment time," so there may be a short wait.
Visit with Santa
- Please allow some flexibility in appointment timing; we do our best to stay on schedule, but a magical experience can take time! We appreciate your patience and flexibility as our elves work hard to make this season special.
- Your time with Santa usually lasts **3-5 minutes** (depending on group size and visit details).
- After meeting Santa, review your photos with assistance from a Santa helper and finalize your purchase.
- Let us know if there's anything we can do to make your experience even more enjoyable!
Booking Tickets
- Pay Now, Decide Later: An $8 online reservation fee will apply toward your photo purchase.
- One Reservation Per Family: Only one reservation is needed per immediate family. Cousins or friends attending together should make separate reservations.
- Non-Transferable Tickets: Tickets are valid only for the specified date and time. Missed reservations may be accommodated based on availability.
- Adult Supervision: Children must be accompanied by an adult (over 18 years).
Changes, Cancellations & Refunds
- Cancellations or changes must be made at least 24 hours in advance via the link in your ticket email.
- We cannot accept cancellation requests via email or social media.
- Refunds are provided only with 24 hours' notice or if the event is canceled due to adverse weather. No refunds are given for non-attendance.
Event Cancellations
- If we must cancel the event, we will offer affected customers a new date (subject to availability) or a full refund.
Thank you for your understanding and helping us create a magical experience for everyone!
Santa Experience 2024
Please note that the schedule is subject to change due to the availability of volunteers and inclement weather.
FRIDAY, NOV. 29: 10AM-3PM; 4PM-9PM
Santa's Arrival Block Party & Community Tree Lighting
SATURDAY, NOV. 30: 10AM-3PM; 4PM-9PM
Small Business Saturday
SUNDAY, DEC. 1: 12PM-4PM
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 4: 4PM-7PM
THURSDAY, DEC. 5: 4PM-8PM
FRIDAY, DEC 6: 10AM-3PM; 4PM-9PM
SATURDAY, DEC. 7: 10AM-3PM; 4PM-9PM
Christmas Parade 10am; Flotilla 5:30pm
SUNDAY, DEC. 8: 12PM-4PM
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 11: 4PM-7PM
THURSDAY, DEC. 12: 4PM-8PM
FRIDAY, DEC. 13: 10 AM-3 PM; 4PM-9PM
Live Window Displays 6pm-8pm
SATURDAY, DEC. 14: 10AM-3PM; 4PM-9PM
SUNDAY, DEC. 15: 12PM-6PM
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 11: 4PM-7PM
THURSDAY, DEC. 19: 4PM-8PM
FRIDAY, DEC. 20: 12PM-3PM; 4PM-9PM
Ugly Christmas Sweater Party!
SATURDAY, DEC. 21: 10AM-3PM; 4PM-9PM
SUNDAY, DEC. 22: 12PM-6PM
MONDAY, DEC. 23: 10AM-3PM; 4PM-9PM
TUESDAY, DEC. 24: 10AM-2PM
Christmas Eve
Snow Schedule: Fridays & Saturdays 6pm-8pm (weather permitting)
Bear Plaza is under 24 hour Elf Surveillance once decorations go up. Please don't touch or steal any of our decorations, our team works hard to make the area enjoyable.
