Essay

Welcome to the Essay Competition Department!

  • Registration Opens: Wednesday, July 1st, 2026
  • Registration Closes: Tuesday, September 15th, 2026
  • Submission Deadline: Friday, September 25th, 2026 by 5 PM
    • Essay submissions must be made by mail or delivery in person.
  • The N.C. State Fair General Fair Rules & Regulations apply.
  • Open to all residents of North Carolina that are currently enrolled in a K-12 school.
  • Exhibitors are allowed one entry.
  • The Essay Competition has four categories, arranged by school grade:
    • Kindergarten - 2nd Grade
    • 3rd - 5th Grade
    • 6th - 8th Grade
    • 9th - 12th Grade

Please review the Premium Book for full competition details, rules, and regulations prior to registering entries.

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