
04/09/2025
Xplore Kayak is preparing for the Grifton Shad Festival April 10-13.
We will be camping out on the property and taking groups on Kayaking Tours. All that can attend, please plan accordingly.
The 2025 Grifton Shad Festival will take place April 10–13, with most events on Saturday and Sunday. The festival will be held in Grifton, North Carolina.
Festival events
• Parade: A vibrant parade with floats, marching bands, and community spirit
• Car show: A display of cars
• Teen pageant: A competition for teens
• Petting zoo: An opportunity to see animals
• Art show: An exhibition of art
• Shad Toss: A traditional festival event
• Food: Delicious food, including the Shad Festival Fish Stew
• Live music: Performances from artists throughout the weekend
Festival schedule
• Friday: The Donald Thompson Band at 6 PM, and The Band of Oz at 9 PM
• Saturday: Morgan & Hudson Company at 4:30 PM, The Lovesick Drifters at 7 PM, and All My Rowdy Friends at 9 PM
The Grifton Shad Festival is one of the longest running festivals in North Carolina. It's a spring tradition that celebrates community spirit and Down East hospitality.