8 Seconds Hat Bar Opening in Downtown Smithfield

SMITHFIELD, NC — The Downtown Smithfield Development Corporation (DSDC) is excited to welcome 8 Seconds Hat Bar, a unique new business bringing custom hat craftsmanship, boots, and more to Downtown Smithfield.
Owner Jose Sanchez invites the community to celebrate the store’s grand opening on Saturday, October 31. “It’s our favorite holiday, so we’re celebrating all day,” says Sanchez.

The community is also invited to join DSDC and 8 Seconds Hat Bar for an official ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday, November 3, from 12–1 p.m., welcoming the business to Downtown Smithfield and Johnston County.

8 Seconds Hat Bar offers a personalized approach to hat making, creating custom hats designed around each customer’s unique head shape, personal style, and brand identity. Rather than relying on mass-produced, one-size-fits-all products, Sanchez takes pride in crafting hats that reflect the individual wearing them.

As a third-generation craftsman, Sanchez brings a deep appreciation for the art of his trade and a passion for creating an authentic customer experience. For him, it’s about more than making the perfect hat — it’s about helping customers express their individuality and enjoying the experience along the way.

“8 Seconds Hat Bar is a wonderful addition to Downtown Smithfield,” said Heidi Gilmond, Executive Director of DSDC. “Unique businesses like this give people another reason to visit downtown, explore our local shops, and discover the talented entrepreneurs bringing new energy and opportunity to our community. We’re excited to welcome Jose and see his business become part of our downtown story.”

The addition of 8 Seconds Hat Bar reflects the continued growth and diversity of Downtown Smithfield’s small-business community, offering residents and visitors another distinctive shopping experience.

The public is encouraged to stop by for the October 31 grand opening celebration and join the community ribbon cutting on November 3.

Event Details

8 Seconds Hat Bar Grand Opening

• Date: Saturday, October 31, 2026

  119 S 3rd Street, Smithfield, NC

• Celebration: All day

Official Ribbon Cutting

• Date: Tuesday, November 3, 2026

• Time: 12–1 p.m.

• Location: 8 Seconds Hat Bar, 119 S 3rd Street, Smithfield, NC

For more information about Downtown Smithfield businesses, events, and activities, visit www.downtownsmithfield.com.

About Downtown Smithfield Development Corporation (DSDC)

The Downtown Smithfield Development Corporation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting, enhancing, and preserving Downtown Smithfield. Through business support, events, beautification, and community partnerships, DSDC works to create a vibrant downtown where businesses thrive and people want to gather, explore, and connect.