For More Than 68 Years, This Small Town Has Hosted The Longest-Running Festival In The Crystal Coast North Carolina

The oldest festival in North Carolina's Crystal Coast began in 1954. Hosted by the charming town of Swansboro, the Mullet Festival started out of love and respect for mullet — a small, bony fish that was a vital nutrient in the diet of the workers building the White Oak River Bridge. This structure became an important link between Onslow and Carteret counties, and when construction ended, the very first Swansboro Mullet Festival in North Carolina celebrated the arrival of the modern days to come. What began as a potluck, and a sweet small-town gathering, is going on its 70th year on October 12 and 13, 2024. See who you know in the parade, buy a memento from the street vendors, enjoy good food, play at the Kid's Zone, and dance to live music. Save the dates for the best party on the streets in North Carolina.

For 70 years now, this magical celebration has brought joy every fall to those who attend.

What year is this? Look closely - is anyone familiar?

The sea of people drawn to the Mullet Festival has grown beyond any expectations from its inception so very long ago.

Don't miss the kickoff of an exciting parade at 9 a.m. on Saturday.

The creativity and enthusiasm remain today.

Even if we're not kids, we love the Kids' Zone with face painting and inflatables galore.

We can smell this yummy grilled food from here.

Take a pick from fried fish to Italian sausage and barbecue - it's all delicious.

Don't forget about gift-giving ideas from the vendors for the holidays.

And put on a nice pair of dancing shoes, because the live entertainment is always impressive.

Have you ever attended the Swansboro Mullet Festival in North Carolina before? Are you planning to attend this year? Let us know how it was in the comments. Be sure to keep up on the plans for this year's event on the Swansboro Mullet Festival Facebook page. While you're visiting Swansboro, visit a lovely hidden beach along the Crystal Coast to find seashells:

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/north-carolina/best-seashelling-nc/