HAMLET — One of Richmond County's most anticipated traditions returns this fall as the 44th Annual Seaboard Festival rolls into historic downtown Hamlet on Saturday, Oct. 31, 2026.
Held annually on the last Saturday of October, the festival celebrates Hamlet's rich railroad heritage as the former hub of the Seaboard Air Line Railroad while bringing thousands of visitors together for a full day of family fun, entertainment, shopping, and community pride.
Date: Saturday, Oct. 31, 2026
Seaboard Festival 5K: 8 a.m.
Festival Hours: 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Location: Main Street, Downtown Hamlet, North Carolina
Main Street will come alive from morning until afternoon with hundreds of vendors, delicious festival food, live entertainment, and activities for all ages. Festival goers can browse a diverse selection of craft, commercial, informational, and food vendors while enjoying the charm and hospitality of historic downtown Hamlet.
Returning favorites include the Seaboard Festival 5K, the popular Seaboard Festival Car Show, the beloved Conductor's Call, performances by local dance groups, and live music and entertainment throughout the day. The festival also promises a few extra-special additions this year as the community celebrates Halloween with festive activities and seasonal fun for all ages.
Car enthusiasts won't want to miss the Seaboard Festival Car Show, featuring classic cars, trucks, customs, muscle cars, motorcycles, and modern vehicles. The Corvettes of the Sandhills Car Club and the Sandhills Classic Street Rod Association will once again coordinate the show, with dash plaques awarded to the first 100 entries and multiple award categories.
Whether you're participating in the 5K, shopping with vendors, enjoying live entertainment, admiring classic automobiles, or simply soaking in the festive atmosphere, the Seaboard Festival offers something for everyone.
Admission to the festival is free.
About the Seaboard Festival
Established in 1983, the Seaboard Festival is an annual celebration of Hamlet's railroad heritage and community spirit. Held each year on the last Saturday in October, the festival has grown into one of the largest and longest-running festivals in the Sandhills region, attracting thousands of visitors to downtown Hamlet for a day filled with history, entertainment, shopping, food, and family fun.
