RALEIGH – This year’s annual State Farmers Market Largest Watermelon Contest had a special meaning as it was held in memory of longtime watermelon contest competitor Donald Murphy, who passed away earlier this year. Known for his knowledge and expertise in growing a large watermelon each year, Murphy was a familiar face at the contest and on Watermelon Day.
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RALEIGH -- The North Carolina Wine & Grape Council recently awarded more than 275 medals as it celebrated 20 years of exceptional winemaking and judging at the North Carolina Wine Competition.
There is still time to enter your submissions for this year’s N.C. Mountain State Fair exhibitions, and the free Pony Express program makes the process simple and convenient for residents in Western North Carolina.
There is no time like fair time and now is the time to save money and get a jump on planning your trip to the 2025 N.C. State Fair, happening Oct. 16-26 in Raleigh. Discount advance tickets can be purchased online now through Oct. 16. Tickets can also be purchased daily at the Dorton Arena kiosk and walk-up tickets will be available from Oct. 3 through 16 at Gate 9 at the fairgrounds.
N.C. Forest Service (NCFS) Richmond County Ranger Brandon Van Buren has been named recipient of the 2025 State Forester’s Prescribed Burning Award. Van Buren began his NCFS career as an assistant county ranger in Anson County in 2014. He’s held the role of Richmond County ranger since October 2021.
The countdown is on with the N.C. Mountain State Fair just a month away. Six new entertainment acts will make their debuts at the fair, rounding out a thrilling lineup of fun, games, food, agriculture, rides and more. Back for its 31st year, the fair will run Sept. 5-14 at the WNC Agricultural Center in Fletcher.
RALEIGH – Beat the heat with slices of a summertime favorite at Watermelon Day at the State Farmers Market in Raleigh Thursday, Aug. 7, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Do you know a farm family deserving of recognition? The N.C. State Fair is accepting applications for the Farm Family of the Day program, sponsored by Tractor Supply Company.
Starting Aug.1, county governments and conservation nonprofit groups may apply for grant funding from the N.C. Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund for farmland preservation projects. A new application format for all grant proposals is required this year. All interested applicants must complete the Intent to Apply section by Aug. 29 to be eligible to complete the full application.
RALEIGH — Farmers markets across North Carolina will join markets nationwide in celebrating National Farmers Market Week, Aug. 3-9, spotlighting the vital role farmers markets play in supporting local agriculture, boosting rural economies, strengthening communities and expanding access to fresh, healthy food.