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Ava Gardner Festival in Smithfield pays homage to late actress' NC roots

The Ava Gardner Festival runs from Oct. 7-9 in Smithfield.

Posted Updated
The Ava Gardner Festival runs from Oct. 7-9 in Smithfield.
By
Mark Bergin
, WRAL senior multiplatform producer
SMITHFIELD, N.C. — The Ava Gardner Festival kicked off Friday to celebrate the late actress’ 100th birthday celebration.

The three-day festival features new exhibits, video tributes and a concert to celebrate the many facets of Gardner’s life.

On Friday night, there was a big band musical tribute to pay homage to Gardner. The festivities continue Saturday and Sunday.

In addition to special exhibits at the Ava Gardner Museum, there are bus guided heritage tours and special showings of Gardner films at the Smithfield Cinemas.

Gardner is known for her roles in the movies “The Killers” “Mogambo” and The Night of the Iguana.” She was born in Grabtown, North Carolina.

WRAL News is a proud community sponsor of the Ava Gardner Festival in Smithfield.

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