New Bern

Ghent, New Bern Neighborhood

Nestled along tree-lined streets, Ghent offers a charming blend of early 20th-century Craftsman bungalows and welcoming front porches, where neighbors greet each other with a smile. Renowned for its strong sense of community and walkable layout, this historic neighborhood exudes warmth, character, and timeless appeal.

New Bern provides a calm and tranquil environment with predominantly single detached homes built around 1990. Residents have access to various dining options and approximately 20 grocery stores within a convenient distance when traveling by car. The city offers both public and private schools at elementary and high school levels, giving educational choices for its inhabitants. Despite having few bike lanes, the streets remain peaceful and restful, contributing to a serene atmosphere throughout the neighborhood. Parking is generally easy to find, and properties are closely connected to nearby highways, making daily commuting straightforward and efficient.

The character of New Bern is exemplified by its slower-paced atmosphere. New Bern is excellent for those who enjoy quiet surroundings, as there isn't a lot of street noise or city clamor.

Highlights of Ghent

Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special

🌳 Fort Totten Park

Located along Country Club Road at the edge of Ghent, this shaded community park features open green spaces, walking paths, and historic Civil War earthworks, making it a favorite for both history buffs and families looking for a relaxing place to stroll.

🏫 Brinson Memorial Elementary School

Serving the families of Ghent, Brinson Memorial is a well-regarded public elementary school conveniently located on Yarmouth Road, providing a cornerstone for the neighborhood’s family-friendly reputation.

🍽️ Ghent Sandwich Shop

A neighborhood favorite for decades, this local eatery at the intersection of Spencer Avenue and 8th Street serves up classic southern breakfast and lunch fare, making it a beloved gathering spot for residents.

🛒 Harris Teeter on MLK Boulevard

Just a short hop from Ghent, the Harris Teeter on South MLK Boulevard provides convenient grocery shopping for residents, with specialty items and fresh produce for everyday needs.

🚴 Spencer Avenue Bike-Friendly Corridor

Spencer Avenue, which runs through Ghent, is a popular bike route thanks to its wide lanes, shady trees, and proximity to parks, making it perfect for commuters and recreational cyclists exploring the neighborhood.

A New Bern Neighborhood

This October in Ghent

Things to do, events, and what's happening this month

October 3, 2026

Living History Day

New Bern Battlefield Park • 8:00 AM–4:00 PM

This free, family-friendly event offers a hands-on look at Civil War-era life close to New Bern, with reenactor camps, infantry and artillery demonstrations, cavalry displays, medical and blacksmith demonstrations, and historical interpretation. It is an easy nearby outing for Ghent residents interested in local history and outdoor activities.

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October 9–11, 2026

Fall Garden Lovers Weekend

Tryon Palace Gardens • Friday–Saturday 9:00 AM–6:00 PM; Sunday 12:00 PM–6:00 PM

Residents can enjoy free admission to Tryon Palace’s 21 acres of gardens during the same weekend as MumFest. The seasonal display of mums and fall-blooming plants makes this a relaxed, walkable downtown activity for Ghent locals, families, gardeners, and anyone looking for a scenic autumn outing close to home.

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October 10–11, 2026

MumFest

Historic Downtown New Bern and Waterfront • 10:00 AM–6:30 PM

New Bern’s signature fall festival brings more than 250 vendors, live music, food, attractions, shopping, and family entertainment to downtown and the waterfront. Its central location makes it especially convenient for Ghent residents who want a full weekend of local culture, community energy, and seasonal fun without traveling far.

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October 10, 2026

Try-Yarn at Tryon Palace: Exploring Fiber Arts

Tryon Palace Commission House • 10:00 AM–3:00 PM

This free program is a good fit for families, makers, and anyone curious about traditional crafts. Local spinners and weavers will demonstrate how natural materials become finished textiles, with historic clothing, tools, wool samples, and displays offering an engaging cultural activity just minutes from Ghent.

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October 22–24, 2026

Ghostwalk: Voices of Freedom

Historic Downtown New Bern and Cedar Grove Cemetery • 6:00 PM–9:30 PM

Ghostwalk turns local history into an entertaining evening experience through costumed volunteer actors, historic characters, cemetery storytelling, and porch performances. Despite the name, it is designed as a family-friendly historical event rather than a haunted house, making it a distinctive fall night out for Ghent residents.

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From the Neighborhood

Stories, updates, and things to know in Ghent

Know Your Neighborhood

Local characteristics and demographics for Ghent

Neighborhood Characteristics

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Demographics

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