Get Ready for a Tar Heel Extravaganza: The 2024 NC State Fair is Here!

You smell the funnel cakes and hear the distant laughter of delighted kids (and kids at heart)! That's right, it's time for the North Carolina State Fair, and boy, oh boy, is 2024 shaping up to be a doozy!

Starting this weekend, October 17- 27th, the fairgrounds in Raleigh will transform into a wonderland of lights, sounds, and experiences that'll knock your socks off. So, grab your comfy shoes and let's dive into what makes this year's fair an absolute must-visit!

What's New in '24?

Every year, the NC State Fair ups its game, and 2024 is no exception. Here are some fresh attractions that'll have you saying, "Well, I'll be!":

• Two new rides: A ginormous 210-foot giant slide, and Candyland Adventure Funhouse – also a supersized experience.
  
• Farm-to-Fair Feast: A new dining experience where local chefs create gourmet meals using ingredients from NC farms. Fancy fair food? Count me in!
• Stillhouse Building: Fairgoers 21+ get to do a happy dance this year as NC cocktails & spirits will be available for purchase!

Oldies but Goodies

Of course, it wouldn't be the NC State Fair without some classic favorites:

• The Flower & Garden Show- meander through pathways of gorgeous gardens grown by our local organizations!
  
• The Midway! Games, Monster Trucks, Foodie heaven, and don’t forget the rides- especially the StarGazer- our favorite!
• The iconic State Fair Flyer chairlift ride (pro tip: it's extra magical at sunset)

For the Foodies

Let's be real – we're all here for the food, right? This year's culinary lineup is looking tastier than ever:

• Deep-fried Spaghetti Sandwich! (don't knock it 'til you've tried it!)
• Blue Ridge BBQ showdown (East vs. West NC style – things might get saucy!)
• The North Carolina Public House will showcase dozens of breweries, wineries, cideries, and craft soda makers from across North Carolina! (how many flavors can you sample?)

Get Your Groove On

What's a fair without some toe-tapping tunes? The 2024 lineup is hotter than a Carolina summer:

• Local bluegrass sensations pickin' and grinnin' daily.
• Great chart-topping country music you won't want to miss!
• Comedy skits that will be bustin’ you at the seams!

*Get the full music line-up here.

Tips for Fair-goers

• Wear comfy shoes (your feet will thank me later)
• Bring cash (some vendors still keep it old school)
• Arrive early to beat the crowds (and snag the freshest hush puppies)
• Don't miss the fireworks every night at 9:45 PM (they're more colorful than autumn in the Smokies!)

Whether you're a fair veteran or a first-timer, the 2024 North Carolina State Fair is the place to be. It's where memories are made, calories don't count, and the simple joys of life are celebrated in true Tar Heel style.

All the information can be found here.

See y'all at the fair! And remember, if you get lost, just follow the scent of deep-fried happiness – it'll lead you home every time!