The Downtown Smithfield Development Corporation invites everyone to join the celebration at the Oktoberfest & Harvest Market on Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 12:00pm to 5:00pm in the heart of downtown. This exciting fall festival will blend the best of German tradition with the charm of a local harvest market—bringing people together with great food, lively entertainment, family fun, and the best locally crafted beer and wine.
Streets will be lined with vendors, including our final Smithfield Signature Fresh Market of the season, showcasing local farmers, artisans, and makers. Guests can enjoy browsing unique goods while sampling seasonal flavors.
Highlights of the day include:
- Beer & Wine Garden – Featuring 3–4 local breweries, Hinnant Family Vineyards, and 7 Jars Distillery, serving their Ava Gardner-branded wines in honor of Smithfield’s favorite daughter.
- Ava Gardner Celebration – She might not have been German, but she sure enjoyed a good party! The Ava Gardner Museum will join in the festivities with a special display at the Howell Theatre and a taste of Hollywood glamour.
- German-Inspired Food – From bratwursts to pretzels, with the Downtown Smithfield Development Corporation serving traditional dishes as a fundraiser for community programming.
- Music & Entertainment – A festive mix of German tunes and party favorites to keep the energy high all afternoon.
- Fun & Games – Compete in the BierStein games for bragging rights and big laughs.
- Kids Zone – Pony rides, inflatables, pumpkin decorating, and the Children’s Entrepreneur Market for the youngest entrepreneurs.
“Oktoberfest & Harvest Market is about celebrating what makes Smithfield unique—our community spirit, our history, and our ability to have a great time together,” said Heidi Gilmond, Executive Director of the Downtown Smithfield Development Corporation. “We’re bringing together the traditions of Germany, the bounty of our local harvest, and a touch of Hollywood sparkle thanks to Ava Gardner.”
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, October 11, 2025
Time: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: 100 block of South Third Street, 200 block of East Johnston Street, and Johnston County parking lot.