Brought To You By 318Central and Smithfield Fair
Smithfield Fair is Louisiana’s longest, continuously running, singer/songwriter ensemble, long recognized for its traditional sound, acoustic instrumentation, and tight vocal harmonies. Their diverse blend of roots-based music includes influences from gospel, blues, Celtic, swing, Cajun, swamp-pop and Americana. For the past decade, the Louisiana-based American Sugar Cane League has used the group’s Sweet Sugar Cane as its theme song.
Smithfield Fair was officially recognized for its significant musical contribution and impact. On July 19, 2025, the Northwestern State University Folklife Center inducted them into their Hall of Master Artists during the 2025 NSU Folklife Festival in Natchitoches.
The Louisiana Folklife Commission will recognize the group as a Tradition Bearers during Louisiana Folklife Week as part of Arts Walk in Alexandria sponsored by the Central Louisiana Arts Council.
As Smithfield Fair’s newest album noted, the band will be honored in October as Louisiana Folklife Commission 2025 “Tradition Bearers.” At 7:15 p.m., Friday, October 17th, 2025, join them as part of the Fall ARTSWALK of the Arts Council of Central Louisiana on the mini-park stage on 3rd Street in Alexandria (between Johnson & Desoto).
Dr. Shane Rasmussen, Director of the NSU Folklife Center and a Commissioner for Louisiana Folklife Commision, will make the introduction and presentation, followed by a performance by Smithfield Fair.
