Press Releases

Giant pumpkins and watermelons had their day at the Fair earlier this week to ensure they are in place in time for fairgoers arrival. Fairgoers can see and photograph these giant beauties in the AgriSupply Expo Center at the N.C. State Fair, Oct. 13-23.
WHO/WHAT: Giant pumpkins and super-sized watermelons will settle the great debate on which is the largest when they hit the scales at the weigh-off for the N.C. State Fair Great Pumpkin/Watermelon competition. There are 18 pumpkins and 22 watermelons entered into the competition.WHEN/WHERE:2 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 11Agri Supply Expo Center, State Fairgrounds
The 2022 N.C. State Fair will continue to offer several special days that fairgoers have come to love each year. Unique access and discounts on gate admission tickets are part of the fun for the fair that runs Oct. 13-23 at the State Fairgrounds in Raleigh.“We hope fairgoers will mark their calendars for these four special days at the N.C. State Fair,” said fair manager Kent Yelverton. “The distinct programs and opportunities offered set apart each day, and each one is an opportunity to recognize and honor many North Carolinians as well as give back to the people of our state.”
Add an extra stop on your errands this week and pick up your 2022 N.C. State Fair tickets at discounted prices. Fairgoers can purchase discount advance admission tickets, ride tickets and unlimited ride wristbands for the N.C. State Fair at three locations in the Raleigh area.• Gate 9 at the N.C. State Fairgrounds (off Trinity Road) from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.• State Farmers Market ticket booth located between the Farmers Building and Market Shoppes from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.• N.C. Museum of History lobby from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays only
The N.C. State Fair is quickly approaching. This weekend marks the last before The Raleigh Market temporarily leaves the fairgrounds to make room for the N.C. State Fair. The Raleigh Market will close on Sunday, Sept. 25, at 5 p.m. and remain closed through the month of October. It re-opens Saturday, Nov. 5.
With Oct. 13-23 just around the corner, the N.C. State Fair is busy gearing up to welcome new grounds entertainment, new competitions and a new special event at the NC Public House. Fairgoers may also notice the addition of a new entry gate off Youth Center Road, a new parking lot option and additional ticket buying kiosks near the gates.
The N.C. State Fair is looking for home chefs to spice up the competitions at the fair with 11 days of cooking challenges. Included are loaded nachos, ultimate brownies, spirited pies, quirky cobbler, a make-ahead breakfast challenge, chili cook-off, grain bowls, sirloin salad, fair food featuring bacon and chicken casserole.
Has your farm family got what it takes to be one of the 11 families recognized this year at the N.C. State Fair as a Farm Family of the Day? If you are proud to be an N.C. farmer, work hard to contribute to the state’s No. 1 industry and love both farming and the N.C. State Fair, you could be one of the lucky ones selected.
The North Carolina State Fair returns to the State Fairgrounds in Raleigh Oct. 13 - 23 , and fairgoers can save money on admission and rides by purchasing tickets online in advance now.“Buying in advance can save you up to 45 percent off prices compared to buying when you arrive at the fair,” said Kent Yelverton, state fair manager. “It is the most economical way to visit – especially if you’re bringing the whole family, plus you can bypass the ticket lines when you arrive at the fair and head straight to the gates.”
Blue ribbon seekers get ready because the 2022 N.C. State Fair competitions are now open. If you think your artwork, honey, livestock, cooking, canned food, flowers or decorating skills are prize-winning, then don’t miss this year’s deadlines to enter. New competitions this year include ink pen decorated seashells and artwork inspired floral arrangements.