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the world famous

Grifton
Shad Festival

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Eat
Mo
Shad

Welcome to the home of the

Grifton Shad Festival

April 10-13th 2025

We are now entering our 53rd year!

The Grifton Shad Festival is one of the most time-honored and longest running festivals in all of North Carolina. Come out and enjoy several days of Down East Hospitality. Most events are held on the weekend.

Free Shuttle Service
Food Vendors
Fireworks
Events All Year Long

Festival Events

Miss Grifton Shad Pageant

Starting April 5, 2025 to April 5, 2025
Celebrate grace, talent, and community pride at the Miss Grifton Pageant! Join us in honoring the remarkable young women of Grifton.
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The Great Contentnea Creek Duck Race

Starting April 6, 2025 to April 6, 2025
Grifton Shad Festival & Grifton VFD #43 present The Great Contentnea Creek Duck Race Sunday, April 6, 2025, 2:00 p.m., Grifton Boat Landing Come to the Town Landing and/or Outlook…
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Fishy Tales Contest

Starting April 8, 2025 to April 8, 2025
Fishy Tales (Lying Contest) Each year, the Grifton Shad Festival holds its annual Fish Tales event. The event is for school children as well as adults. Each participant tells a…
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Home Town Night

Starting April 10, 2025 to April 10, 2025
Singer, songwriter, guitarist and a blue collar country boy. Be Real and Be yourself. Former Founder and lead vocalist of Blue Soul Redemption.
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The Donald Thompson Band

Starting April 11, 2025 to April 11, 2025
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The Band of Oz

Starting April 11, 2025 to April 11, 2025
The Band of Oz brings Southern charm and high-energy beach music to every stage, delivering a show you won’t forget!
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Captain Jim is Magic

Starting April 12, 2025 to April 12, 2025
Captain Jack will be performing magic all day, in between scheduled events. Captain Jim, Master of Magic & Lt. Lady Louisa, Dance of Swords. Come travel into the future with…
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Circus Stella

Starting April 12, 2025 to April 12, 2025
Circus Stella is a one-ring circus owned and operated by husband and wife team Dextre and Jayna Tripp. Jayna offers stunning aerial acrobatics, including both trapeze and aerial silk. She…
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Our History Over the last 50+ years

Grifton Shad Festival’s Proud History & Traditions

Buy Shad Festival Merch

The Shad Shack

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We Love Our Partnerships

Meet Our Sponsors

Our sponsors make the Grifton Shad Festival possible, supporting our community and celebrating tradition. Join us in thanking them!

Contact Us

Have Questions?
Get in Touch!

Why We are ENC's Most Loved Festival

Our Fan Mail

“As a food vendor, this festival has been a game-changer for our business. The crowds are enthusiastic, and we always sell out! The event staff is helpful and supportive, making the whole process seamless.”

— Laura P.

“A Great Business Opportunity”

Food Truck Owner

“We’ve been setting up at the festival for years, and it never disappoints. The Grifton community is so supportive, and we always make great connections while selling our products. Can’t wait for next year!”

— Carlos G.

“Friendly, Fun & Well-Organized!”

Handmade Goods Vendor

“The Grifton Shad Festival is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of community spirit. We’re honored to be a part of it and look forward to continuing our partnership in the years to come!”

— David B.

“Great Event, Great People, Great Cause”

Local Business Owner

“The festival provided fantastic visibility for our company, and it was rewarding to see so many people enjoying the event. Supporting local culture and engaging with customers in person is invaluable for our brand!”

— Jennifer K.

“A Win-Win for the Community & Our Brand”

Corporate Sponsor

“Sponsoring the Grifton Shad Festival has been an amazing opportunity for our business. Not only do we get great exposure, but we also get to support a tradition that brings the community together. We’ll definitely be back next year!”

— Tom W.

“Proud to Support a Local Tradition”

Business Sponsor

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