GraniteFest brings big crowds
GraniteFest 2026. Photo by David Frank, courtesy of Granite Shoals
In an after-action report, the city of Granite Shoals recorded more than 4,500 attendees at GraniteFest 2026 in early May, helping make the annual festival one of the largest community celebrations in recent memory as the city marked its 60th anniversary.
Attendance over the May 8-10 weekend was estimated at around 4,500, with about 1,398 attendees on May 8, 2,741 on May 9, and roughly 100 on May 10 attending the Mighty Thomas Carnival. The festival, held at Quarry Park, coincided with the 60th anniversary of Granite Shoals’ incorporation on May 9, 1966.
The celebration drew residents and visitors for a weekend of live music, fireworks, carnival rides, a car show, food vendors, children’s activities and other attractions.
“This year’s GraniteFest served as both a signature community celebration and a historic milestone as the City of Granite Shoals commemorated its 60th Anniversary on May 9th,” City Manager Sarah Novo told DailyTrib.
Revenue from the Mighty Thomas Carnival increased by 30 percent, rising from $40,560 in 2025 to $52,941 in 2026, according to a presentation during the May 26 council meeting.
“The city extends its sincere appreciation to our sponsors, volunteers, vendors, city staff, community organizations, and countless attendees whose support and participation helped make this year’s GraniteFest and 60th Anniversary celebration an overwhelming success,” Novo said.