The historic coastal tradition is back! The 72nd Annual Swansboro Mullet Festival of North Carolina returns to downtown Swansboro on October 10–11, 2026, bringing two full days of coastal charm, delicious food, live music, and family fun. Right in the heart of all the action, Rocket Fizz Swansboro will be open all weekend long! As you explore over 160 craft and food vendors lining the streets, make sure to pop into our shop to cool down, grab an ice cold craft soda, and refuel with your favorite sweets.
Whether you are starting your morning watching the famous 9:00am parade down Highway 24 on Saturday or bringing the kids to the Children’s Area, our doors are wide open. Stop in to grab a cold soda from our giant pop wall, fuel up on retro candies, or take a viral TikTok sour challenge between festival events!
To help you navigate the festival like a pro, here’s a couple tips to keep your visit stress-free:
- Free Parking & Shuttle Service: Downtown streets are closed to vehicle traffic. Park for free at Ward Farm (located behind the Hampton Inn). Free shuttles pick up at Ward Farm and drop off downtown at the corner of Sabiston and Church Streets. Shuttles run Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Accessible & Handicap Parking: Dedicated handicap parking spaces are available at Swansboro Town Hall (601 W. Corbett Ave). Golf cart shuttles are available right at Town Hall to transport patrons needing assistance straight into the downtown festival grounds.
- Restroom Access: Free public restrooms are located at the Visitor’s Center on the corner of W. Church Street and S. Water Street. Public portable facilities are also stationed throughout the festival grounds along vendor routes.
Head over to the Pugliese Pavilion (located at the corner of Front and Church Streets) to catch all of this year’s live music and entertainment:
Saturday, October 10 Schedule:
- 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Mystic Vibrations (Reggae)
- 1:00 PM: The Famous Mullet Toss (Head over to watch or participate in this legendary festival tradition!)
- 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM: The Tim Clark Band (High-energy party & beach music)
- 6:30 PM – 10:00 PM: Blackwater Rhythm & Blues Band (Saturday night headliner)
Sunday, October 11 Schedule:
- 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM: The Coconut Groove Band
- 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM: The Tams
After catching the live music at the pavilion or cheering during the Mullet Toss, recharge at Rocket Fizz! From our legendary wall of over 500 craft sodas to international snacks, viral treats, and classic retro candies, we have something special for everyone!
Come visit us right in historic downtown Swansboro at 101 W Church Street Suite 3, Swansboro, NC during the Mullet Festival weekend!