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Smithfield Announces Art Contests for the 40th Annual Ham and Yam Festival

CommunityPress Release

Young artists from across Johnston County are invited to help shape the 40th Anniversary of the Ham and Yam Festival through two special art contests: the Ham & Yam T-Shirt Design Contest for middle and high school students, and a new Coloring Contest for elementary students.

T-Shirt Design Contest (Sponsored by Johnston Family Dentistry)
Middle and high school students are encouraged to create an original design capturing the energy, flavor, and community spirit of the Ham & Yam Festival. The winning artwork will become the official 2026 festival t-shirt, worn by attendees and showcased throughout downtown.

• Eligibility: Johnston County middle and high school students
• Submission Deadline: March 1st
• Prizes: Cash awards for the winning artist and runners-up
• Recognition: The winning artist will be honored on the festival’s main stage

Coloring Contest (Sponsored by Coates Hearing Clinic)
Elementary-aged students can join the celebration as well through a dedicated coloring contest. Participants will receive a festival-themed coloring sheet and are encouraged to bring their brightest ideas to life. Winning entries will be displayed during the festival, highlighting the creativity of Smithfield’s youngest artists.
• Eligibility: Johnston County elementary students
• Submission Deadline: March 1st
• Prizes & Recognition: Cash awards for top entries and on-site recognition during the festival

How to Enter
Submissions for the t-shirt design contest should be sent with the student’s name, age, school, and best contact information to info@downtownsmithfield.com.

Entries for the coloring contest may be turned into your teachers, dropped off at Smithfield Town Hall, or emailed to info@smithfield-nc.com.

Winners for both contests will be announced March 15th.

Smithfield Announces Art Contests for the 40th Annual Ham and Yam Festival