Things to Do in Smithfield

It might be a small town, but Smithfield has no shortage of ways to stay entertained! Head to Historic Downtown Smithfield to enjoy historic and culture at the Johnston County Heritage Center or the Ava Gardner Museum. Catch a live show at the Neuse Little Theatre or a movie at Howell Theatre. Shop, dine, and explore the charming local businesses lining the streets of Downtown. Find nightlife and entertainment that includes trivia nights, live music, and other special events, like Yoga & Mimosas. Even take a scenic stroll along the Buffalo Creek Greenway or the Neuse River.

Other favorite destinations in Smithfield include, of course, the Carolina Premium Outlets, as well as the Country Club of Johnston County.

Outdoor Adventures

Smithfield is a great place for those who love to get outside or stay active. It’s home to numerous local parks, which provide amenities such as ball fields and courts, shuffleboard and bocce courts, playgrounds and picnic areas, nature parks, boat ramps and fishing areas, and walking trails. It’s also home to the Smithfield Neuse Riverwalk and the Buffalo Creek Greenway, which run along the Neuse River and Buffalo Creek, connecting Downtown Smithfield to various local parks and facilities.

Additionally, Smithfield Parks & Recreation offers numerous programs for residents of all ages, including adult and youth sports, summer camps, senior citizen activities, art programs, kids and teen nights, group fitness classes, and more.

Events & Celebrations

Get out and celebrate the community of Smithfield with your neighbors! Smithfield is home to amazing annual events, like the famous Smithfield Ham & Yam Festival, a Historical Ghost Walk, the Smithfield Tree Lighting and Christmas Parade, the Rhythm & Brews Concert, and the Smithfield Wine Walk… as well as regular events like concerts in the park or arts and craft shows.

Outstanding Education

Smithfield is served by fast-growing and top-performing Johnston County Public Schools, a district that has seen vast improvement over the past few years. Currently, it is ranked among the Top 40 Best School Districts in North Carolina.

Smithfield’s schools include South Smithfield Elementary, West Smithfield Elementary, Smithfield Middle, Johnston County Middle College High, Smithfield-Selma High, Johnston County Early College Academy (ranked among the Top 40 High Schools in NC), South Campus Community School, and the Neuse Charter School. It is also home to Johnston County Community College, for those seeking continuing education.