40 Years Of Ham & Yam: Sister Hazel To Headline 2026 Celebration

SMITHFIELD — The Smithfield community is preparing for a major milestone as the 40th Annual Ham & Yam Festival announces Sister Hazel as this year’s headlining musical act.

Known for their feel-good Southern rock sound, Sister Hazel rose to fame with their platinum hit “All For You” and has since built a diverse catalog that spans rock, alternative, and country. The band has also earned multiple spots on the Billboard Top Country Albums Chart.

Beyond their music, Sister Hazel is celebrated for their strong fan connections and community involvement. The band has created unique fan experiences such as The Rock Boat, Hazelnut Hang, and Camp Hazelnut, and their nonprofit, Lyrics For Life, has raised more than $5 million for cancer research and patient care.

“This is a huge year for the Ham & Yam Festival, and Sister Hazel is the perfect headliner to help us celebrate 40 years,” said Heidi Gilmond. “Their music, energy, and heart align perfectly with what this festival represents — community, tradition, and unforgettable experiences.”

The Ham & Yam Festival, one of North Carolina’s longest-running festivals, draws visitors from across the state to Downtown Smithfield for live music, food, family-friendly activities, and community celebration. More details, including the performance schedule, will be announced in the coming weeks.


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2 Comments

  1. The MINIMUM cost to hire them to play is $15k. Average cost is $41k. Good to see Smithfield using its money wisely. Also, where are people going to park for Ham & Yam this year?

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