Rocking the Neuse: Footloose Concert Series and Community Chorus Events in New Bern
The Footloose on the Neuse concert series has been a popular event since 2019, attracting both locals and visitors with tributes to classic bands from the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s. The series kicked off this year with Trial by Fire on May 22, followed by ABBA Nova on June 5, drawing a crowd of over 4,600 people. Upcoming performances include Kashmir, a Led Zeppelin tribute band, on July 17, Tell Me Lies, a Fleetwood Mac tribute band, on Aug. 28, and the British Invaders on Sept. 4, performing British rock from the 1960s to the 1980s. The concerts start at 7:30 p.m. at Union Point Park, offering food trucks and adult beverages for purchase.
The largest turnout for the series was during the Eagles tribute band On the Border's performance in the summer of 2025, with over 6,700 attendees. The upcoming performance by On the Border on Aug. 7 may break that record. The success of the series has been attributed to a survey conducted in 2023, where residents provided feedback on their favorite bands and suggestions for new acts. This feedback has led to increased community participation and larger crowds at the concerts. The city of New Bern has also adjusted the concert start times to encourage attendees to visit local businesses and restaurants before the show.
In addition to the concert series, the Craven Community Chorus has been hosting Concerts for a Cause to benefit local nonprofits. Their recent performances of "Requiem for the Living" by Dan Forrest alongside a 10-member orchestra raised funds for Religious Community Services. The concerts were well-received, with standing ovations and positive feedback from attendees. The chorus is now looking to hire a new accompanist and will have future performances in December. The success of these events highlights the community's support for local music and charitable causes.