Smithfield, NC – Get ready, Johnston County! The Ham & Yam Festival is back, and this year we’re celebrating 40 years of small-town fun, food, and community spirit. Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 2nd—it’s going to be a day to remember!
Kick off the festivities with the 5K timed run, then grab a ham biscuit from the Kiwanis Club, made with Stevens hams just like they have been since the festival began. Throughout the day, enjoy an exciting mix of activities for all ages: pig races, three stages of live music featuring nationally recognized performers and local youth groups, a huge car show from the Southland Car Club, antique tractors, and wood-carving demonstrations creating one-of-a-kind Hammy T. Biscuit and Sweetpotato Cassie statues to commemorate the 40th anniversary.
Food lovers won’t be disappointed with delicious eats on every corner and a spotlight on the sweetpotato with a cooking expo. Plus, the NC Pork Council will host a sanctioned whole hog competition. And yes, we’ll have plenty of games for kids and grown-up kids alike!
The celebration wraps up with a FREE concert at 7 PM at the Neuse River Amphitheater featuring the iconic Sister Hazel.
Come experience everything we love about Johnston County—food, fun, music, and community. Don’t miss this milestone 40th Ham & Yam Festival!
For more information, visit: www.downtownsmithfield.com
Downtown Smithfield Development Corporation
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Heidi Gilmond Executive Director
- March 30, 2026
- (919) 934-0887
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