Swansboro Parks & Recreation Announces the
“Finger” Mullet Festival
Swansboro, NC – Get ready for everything you love about the Mullet Festival, just a little smaller! The Finger Mullet Festival will take place on Saturday, October 18th, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Swansboro Municipal Park.
This bite-sized celebration packs all the fun of the original Mullet Festival into one exciting day. Attendees can enjoy over 40 vendors, a Mullet Fry from Crystal Coast Assembly of God, and a free shuttle service from Ward Farm to the park.
Family-friendly activities include the 12:00 PM Mullet Toss, the 2:00 PM Mullet Hair Competition, and a variety of Little Mullet activities for the kids. Don’t forget to grab your limited-edition “What the Fin” Mullet Festival T-shirts while supplies last!
Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the festivities, the Finger Mullet Festival is a can’t-miss event. Come celebrate Swansboro style with music, food, fun, and, of course, mullets!
For more information, visit swansborofestivals.com or call 910-326-2600.
71st Annual
team CHEVROLET of swansboro
Mullet Festival of North Carolina
Cancellation Notice: Mullet Festival 2025
We are very saddened to announce the cancellation of the 71st Annual Mullet Festival. Based on the most recent National Weather Service and NOAA forecasts, severe wind and rain are projected to impact our area directly this weekend. These projections are specific to the Swansboro festival site and not just the coast in general.
This decision was not made lightly. The Mullet Festival is a cherished tradition in Swansboro—one that brings our community together in celebration, music, and joy. However, the safety of our residents, visitors, vendors, and staff must always come first. While we are deeply disappointed, we believe this is the most responsible decision given the information provided.
If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to the Swansboro Parks and Recreation Department at selliott@ci.swansboro.nc.us or astanley@ci.swansboro.nc.us.
Thank you for your understanding and continued support of
Swansboro’s community events.
Team Chevrolet of Swansboro’s 71st Annual Swansboro Mullet Festival of North Carolina returns to Downtown Swansboro on October 11–12, 2025.
The festivities kick off Friday, October 10th, with the beloved Blessing of the Fleet at Casper’s Marina beginning at 6 p.m. All boat owners are welcome to participate. A wreath is dropped in memoriam of boat owners who have passed, those who work on the water, those who protect our country, those who provide food from these waters, and all who enjoy them for family and pleasure.
On Saturday, October 11th, the festival begins with the Mullet Parade at 9 a.m. along Highway 24 into Downtown Swansboro. Throughout the weekend, enjoy over 160 craft and food vendors lining the streets, along with the famous Mullet Fish Fry. Admission to the festival is free. Please note downtown streets are closed to traffic, and visitors are encouraged to leave pets at home.
Music and entertainment are always a highlight, with performances scheduled both days at the Downtown Pavilion. The Children’s Area will feature inflatables, a craft zone for the “Little Mullets,” and family-friendly activities throughout the weekend. Don’t miss the always popular Mullet Toss held between band performances. This year’s headliner, Blackwater Rhythm and Blues Band, takes the stage Saturday night at 6:30 p.m., with more great music to follow.
Shuttle service will be available from the parking area at Ward Farm (behind Hampton Inn) to Swansboro Town Hall. From there, golf cart shuttles will assist patrons needing transportation downtown. Shuttles run Saturday, 9:30 a.m.–10 p.m., and Sunday, 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
Hotel INFORMATION
Hampton Inn and Suites if the official hotel for Swansboro Festivals. Hampton Inn, is offering a discount to festival attendees and vendors. Book your stay and use the code to receive a special rate by using this link.
Mullet Festival Vendors use code CHHMFV and book your stay here.
VENDOR INFORMATION
2025 Mullet Festival Vendor Guidelines
Mullet Festival vendors spaces are full, no longer accepting applications for 2025.
For vendor information, contact Deb Pylypiw at dpylypiw@ci.swansboro.nc.us