New Bern is preparing for the Mumfest economic boom

NEW BERN, N.C. (WITN) – Yellow, purple and orange mums are scattered throughout downtown New Bern as businesses prepare for the biggest event of the year.

Tens of thousands of people are expected to fill the streets of New Bern during Mumfest, and companies like Mitchell Hardware say they and other businesses are prepared.

“I know they are excited about the influx of people and business – they are not afraid. They want the people, we want the stores, we love it when the streets are packed,” said Lindsay Sims, co-owner of Mitchell Hardware.

Businesses throughout downtown New Bern are preparing, like Blue Magnolia manager Ashley Priest, who says they're looking forward to what's to come.

“We always have extra employees because there are so many people on the street and from a business perspective, it’s just fun to participate,” Priest said.

Melissa Riggle, executive director of the Craven County Tourism Development Authority, expects even bigger crowds this year compared to last year, especially with impending perfect weather and EWN's new direct flights from Hartford, Connecticut and Orlando, Florida.

Riggle believes that all of New Bern will feel the impact of Mumfest as it attracts people from all over the world to New Bern.

“The annual Mumfest is our largest event, typically having an economic impact of over $1 million on our local economy. It flows into our merchants, our small downtown businesses, the restaurants and hotels,” Riggle said.

Mumfest takes place in New Bern on October 12th and 13th. WITN-TV is a proud sponsor.

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