Annual Carthage Buggy Festival

Started in 1989, the Carthage Buggy Festival is a celebration of the rich history of Carthage, North Carolina. The Buggy Festival is held each year to commemorate the famous Tyson and Jones Buggy Factory that, from the mid-1800’s to the 1920’s, produced the carriages that were essential to life in rural North Carolina. With an annual attendance of 20,000, the Buggy Festival has grown into one of the biggest and best known festivals in the region.

The festivities of the Carthage Buggy Festival begin each year on the Friday night before Mother’s Day. On Friday night, the Carthage Firefighters Association host an antique fire truck and car show at Nancy Kiser Park. Music, food and other activities will be available. On Saturday, over 100 food and craft vendors will surround the Historic Courthouse from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. The Buggy Festival Idol contest will be held at 4:30 p.m. A stage is set up on the steps of the Courthouse, and is host to a variety of entertainment, including cloggers and bands playing gospel, country, and southern rock music.

Children’s rides and games are prominent and always provided free of charge. An impressive display of buggies and historic tractors can be found, and one of the largest classic car shows in the area also takes place. Buggy rides are offered along residential streets adjacent to the Buggy Festival.