Smithfield Announces Art Contests For The 40th Annual Ham & Yam Festival

SMITHFIELD – 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
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.