Benson Mule Days

About

The town of Benson is preparing to transform from a quiet community of 4,000 to a bustling hub of 30,000 as it hosts the 77th Annual Benson Mule Days® Celebration Sept. 24–27, 2026. Sponsored by the Benson Area Chamber of Commerce, this four-day festival honors “the farmer’s best friend” with a unique blend of equine competition, live entertainment, and North Carolina heritage.

The festivities kick off on Thursday, Sept. 24, with a 6 p.m. concert at the Benson Singing Grove. As campers and trailers settle in from across the region, the town prepares for a weekend packed with tradition:

• Friday features high-stakes mule pulls, coon jumping, and racing at the Chamber Park and Arena. The weekend also includes two professional-grade rodeos on Friday and Saturday nights.
• On Saturday at 10 a.m., one of North Carolina’s largest parades will march down Main Street, featuring hundreds of mules, horses, antique tractors, classic cars and marching bands.
• Throughout the weekend, visitors can enjoy a full carnival, a Classic Country show at the Singing Grove, and a wide array of arts, crafts, and commercial vendors.

For a complete schedule of events, vendor information, or camping reservations, please visit benson-chamber.com or contact the Benson Area Chamber of Commerce directly.