The Ham & Yam Festival has grown into a celebration of the agricultural products that Smithfield and Johnston County are known for with live music, country ham biscuits, and sweetpotatoes galore! YUM!
The festival hosts the “What’s That Yam Thing?” contest, a favorite for school-aged children given the opportunity to turn sweetpotatoes into works of art. Visitors wander through the festival area filled with more than one hundred booths occupied by local artists, craftspeople, and makers, face painters, local non-profit organizations, and more.
This family-friendly event keeps crowds entertained with performances on the new Neuse River Amphitheater, children’s games, and inflatables. Don't forget to follow our Facebook page for more news and pictures!
Festival Features
Look ahead to an array of fun, family-friendly activities during this year's festival!
- 5K Hog Trot and Piglet Stampede on the Greenway
- Classic Car Show hosted by Southland Car Club
- Live music on three stages throughout the area
- BBQ Competition hosted by the Firefighters Association
- Kids Zone filled with games, rides, petting zoo, and more
Aaron Tippin Takes the Stage for Free Concert
At the end of the day, stay for a free concert at the Neuse River Amphitheater, featuring award-winning country music artist, Aaron Tippin! Over the years, Tippin built a successful career as an artist who sings what he believes. Tippin’s music has resonated with fans for decades because his love for God, country and family has always been front and center. He sings songs that celebrate the life of the common, hard-working man because that’s who Tippin is at his core.
