The Black Bear Festival
Un-Bear-Able Fun Awaits!
Celebrate the Spirt of 1776 in 2026
June 6, 2026
Plymouth, NC
Opening June 5th at 5 pm
Saturday June 6th – 9am to 10pm
Welcome to the Black Bear Festival
Join us June 5th and 6th in Plymouth, North Carolina for the 12th Annual Black Bear Festival. This one-of-a-kind celebration honors the incredible black bears that call this region home. Enjoy wildlife tours, river adventures, family activities, live music, and unforgettable moments along the historic Roanoke River waterfront.
Explore the Festival
There is no shortage of excitement during Black Bear Festival weekend.
Events
From bear tours and races to music and family attractions, the festival schedule is packed with fun experiences all weekend long.
Festival Info
Find everything you need to plan your visit, including schedules, maps, directions, and helpful information for festival guests.
Merchandising
Take home a piece of the festival with official merchandise, souvenirs, apparel, and collectibles celebrating North Carolina’s famous black bears.
Gallery
Take a look back at some of our favorite festival moments, from wildlife sightings to live entertainment and waterfront adventures.
Sponsors
The Black Bear Festival is made possible thanks to generous sponsors and community partners supporting this unique North Carolina tradition.
Press
Stay up to date with media coverage, festival news, announcements, and highlights from past and upcoming events.
Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary With Us
The 2026 Black Bear Festival will be extra special as we celebrate America’s 250th birthday. Join us on Plymouth’s beautiful waterfront for wildlife adventures, river fun, family activities, and unforgettable entertainment. From black bear tours and educational exhibits to live music and fireworks over the Roanoke River, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy.
Why People Love This Festival
The Black Bear Festival combines wildlife, river adventure, and family fun in one unforgettable celebration along the Roanoke River.
World-Famous Black Bears
Plymouth sits at the epicenter of the black bear universe and is home to some of the largest black bears in the world.
Beautiful Waterfront Setting
The festival takes place along Plymouth’s historic waterfront on the Roanoke River, often called North Carolina’s Amazon.
Fun for the Whole Family
Children and adults alike enjoy the Bear Train, museum exhibits, races, tours, and hands-on wildlife experiences.
Adventures on the River
Enjoy pontoon rides, tubing, paddlewheel cruises, and other exciting ways to experience the Roanoke River.
Entertainment All Day
Live music, special performances, aerial displays, and evening fireworks keep the energy going throughout the festival.
Education and Conservation
Learn from black bear experts, wildlife photographers, and conservation professionals dedicated to protecting these magnificent animals.
Become a Sponsor
Join us for another year of un-bear-able fun in eastern North Carolina!
Partnership, Media and Advertising opportunities for 2026 are now available!
Can’t “bear” it any longer to partner with us? Call Now 252-793-6627
What Visitors Say
The Black Bear Festival is one of the most unique events in North Carolina. The bear tours and river activities made it an unforgettable weekend.
Great family event. Our kids loved the Bear Train and the museum, and the fireworks on the river were amazing.
Seeing black bears in the wild and learning from the biologists was incredible. Plymouth is the perfect setting for this festival.
Join Us for the 2026 Black Bear Festival!
Come celebrate wildlife, community, and adventure on Plymouth’s beautiful Roanoke River waterfront.