Clinton Square Fair
Eastern North Carolina's Celebration of Food, Music & Community
Every October, Downtown Clinton, North Carolina comes alive for one of Sampson County's favorite annual traditions—the Clinton Square Fair. This family-friendly festival celebrates the people, flavors, music, and traditions that make Eastern North Carolina such a special place to call home.
Whether you're visiting for the award-winning barbecue, local artisans, live entertainment, or simply an afternoon spent exploring historic downtown, the Square Fair offers something for every generation.
Join us for two days of community, culture, and unforgettable memories in the heart of Downtown Clinton.
A Taste of Our Cultures
2026 Event Schedule
Friday, October 9
Kick-Off Concert
Liquid Pleasure
6:00 PM – 8:45 PM
Start the weekend with one of North Carolina's favorite beach music bands performing live in downtown Clinton.
Saturday, October 10
Clinton Square Fair
10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Spend the day enjoying local food, shopping, music, children's activities, and entertainment throughout downtown.
What You'll Experience
The Clinton Square Fair celebrates the diversity and traditions of our community through a variety of attractions, including:
Eastern North Carolina barbecue
Live music and entertainment
Local artists and handmade crafts
Food vendors
Kids' activities
Classic car show
Shopping with downtown merchants
Community organizations and exhibits
Admission is free, making it one of the best free festivals in Eastern North Carolina.
Participate in the Clinton Square Fair
Interested in becoming part of this year’s Clinton Square Fair? Applications are now available for barbecue cook-off teams and festival vendors. Spaces are limited and assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, so early submission is encouraged.
Put your Eastern North Carolina barbecue skills to the test during the annual Clinton Square Fair Barbecue Cook-Off. Individual teams will compete for cash prizes, and contestants may also sell barbecue to festival visitors.
The entry fee is $150 per individual team. Completed applications, payment, and proof of an approved temporary food permit must be received by September 7, 2026.
Artists, craftspeople, churches, nonprofit organizations, educational groups, food vendors, and approved businesses are invited to apply for space at the Clinton Square Fair. The event especially welcomes original handmade goods, community fundraising activities, and displays that celebrate the cultures and traditions represented throughout Clinton and Sampson County.
Standard vendor spaces are 10 feet by 10 feet. The vendor fee is $75 per space, while churches, nonprofit organizations, colleges, and universities pay $50 per space. Electricity may be available for an additional $25 per hookup.
Applications must be received by September 7, 2026, and applicants will be notified of acceptance or denial by October 1.
Please note: Download and review the complete application for participation requirements, fees, deadlines, permits, and mailing instructions. Submission of an application does not guarantee acceptance.
Plan Your Visit
Location
Downtown Clinton, North Carolina
Admission
Free
Parking
Free public parking is available throughout downtown.
Whether you're traveling from Wilmington, Fayetteville, Goldsboro, Raleigh, or anywhere across North Carolina, the Clinton Square Fair is worth the trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Clinton Square Fair free?
Yes. Admission to the Square Fair is completely free.
Where do I apply to be a vendor:
Vendor applications can be found in the blue section of this page. Download and fill out the pdf then submit the completed form per the directions on the form for consideration.
Is the event family friendly?
Absolutely. The festival includes activities for children, live entertainment, shopping, food, and attractions for all ages.
Are pets allowed?
Yes! Well-behaved pets are welcome, but they must remain on a leash at all times. Please only bring pets that are comfortable in large crowds and around children, unfamiliar people, and other animals.
When is the Square Fair held?
The festival is traditionally held each October in Historic Downtown Clinton, surrounding the historic Sampson County Court House.
Have more questions?
Send us a message or contact us at 910-299-4904.
Experience Historic Downtown Clinton
While you're here, take time to explore everything Downtown Clinton has to offer. Browse locally owned boutiques, enjoy restaurants and coffee shops, visit local attractions, and discover why Clinton continues to be one of Eastern North Carolina's most welcoming downtown destinations.
The Square Fair is more than a festival—it's an opportunity to experience the heart of our community.