The North Carolina Potato Festival is a fun-filled, family festival that celebrates one of Northeast North Carolina’s largest crops, the Potato. The festival is FREE to the public of all ages. Northeast North Carolina’s largest festival returns to downtown Elizabeth City, this weekend May 16 – 18!
The North Carolina Potato Festival is a beloved celebration of one of the region’s most important crops, and it’s packed with activities the whole family will enjoy. Highlights of the spud-tacular event include:
• A street fair with rides, a games midway, artisans, food vendors, live music and a beer and wine garden
• Free french fries on Saturday from 11 a.m. until they’re gone
• Little Miss Tater Tot Pageant for girls between the ages of 3 and 8. Suitable farmer-style or potato-picking attire required to participate
• National Potato Peeling Contest with the champion winning $250 donation to their nonprofit of choice
• The Big Spud, a 70-foot-long tractor-trailer hauling the “World’s Largest Potato on Wheels” – weighing more than 4 tons – making for a can’t-miss photo op
• Paul Bunyan Lumber Jack Show where experienced lumberjacks showcase their skills through thrilling competitions like log rolling, axe throwing, crosscut sawing, and chainsaw races
• New to this year, the Jeep Invasion promises automotive excitement, showcasing unique Jeeps and opportunities to connect with fellow enthusiasts.
• Auto and bike show showcasing an incredible display of vintage and modern vehicles, from muscle cars and monster trucks to classic motorcycles
In addition: Friday • May 16, 2025 Join us for the NC Potato Festival Opening Ceremony on Friday evening at 5:30 pm in Mariners’ Wharf Park. Enjoy live music on the Main Stage, grab something to eat, do a little shopping with our vendors, and take a spin on a ride in the Midway! The Beer & Wine Garden will be open from 5 pm – 11 pm. (Bring ID)
Saturday • May 17, 2025 & Sunday • May 18, 2025 Return on Saturday and Sunday to enjoy the Street Fair lining our downtown streets, along with many other activities and events! See our 2025 Schedule of Events Page!
*event times subject to change*
