The State Fair!

The State Fair

With a crisp breeze in the air and with it finally being October, that means one thing! It's time for the NC State Fair! Running every year in October, this is something that everyone can look forward to, whether it be trying the new foods, getting on the rides, or the many hundreds of exhibits of Art, Flowers, Farm Life and more, there is something for everyone. We have put together a list that has everything you need to know!

Times & Dates

The State fair this year will run from October 12th through October 22nd. The fairgrounds will be open from 9am to either 11pm or midnight depending on the day. Rides will be open from 10a- gate closing time. We have included a helpful guide below if you are interested in specific dates and times.

Attractions

While some people go to the fair for the rides and the food, dont forget that there are plenty of exhibits to stop by and marvel! These are educational and perfect for the kids in your family that might not get to experience the rides. Some of our favorites are the Field Of Dreams where kids venture through all the steps of growing and marketing their crop as they step into the boots of a farmer, harvest their own vegetables, take that food to market and reap the rewards of their labor - a prize pack of North Carolina products. 

A sure stop for those looking for gifts (yes gifts at the state fair) is the Village of Yesteryear where visitors can watch crafters spin wool into yarn, weave yarn into cloth, make rugs, turn pottery, carve wooden bowls and utensils, make split-oak baskets and more. Native American crafts such as hand-coiled pottery, beadwork and stone carving are also featured. This exhibit, held in the Holshouser Building, offers fairgoers a great opportunity to get a jump on their holiday shopping with items for all price ranges.

While those are just some of our favorites there are plenty others to enjoy!

Delicious Treats

One of the highlights of going to the state fair is of course the food, and is definitely our favorite part. While we always stop for our classic bloomin onion and deep fried oreo, it is super fun to see what new foods will be at the state fair each year. Some of the newest food features include a vegan fair stand, deep fried cinnamon apple bread pudding bites (talk about a mouthful) , for the meat lovers you will definitely need to try the Brisket & Waffles on a stick, and of course for the weird items there is a dill pickle donut if you are brave enough to try!

Rides

While we may not be  brave enough to ride these rides, there are plenty of  new, fun amusement rides each year! You do need tickets for the rides, and they can be bought at the neon green tents found throughout the park. Some of the favorites include the venetian carousel, the sky hawk, the wave swinger, and the orbiter. There are of course ones that the littles can enjoy as well such as the Kids’ balloon fiesta, the puppy roll, and the wiggle “wurm”. 

With so much fun to be had whether it be rides, new foods, learning about new skills, or just enjoying the people watching, this is one of our favorite things about October and we will definitely be stopping by a few times through the 10 days that it runs!

If you plan to take a ride- or just love an exhibit you think is note-worthy, snap a picture, leave a comment below and  of course, hashtag us #MashaHalpern-ChapelHillRealEstate !

Entrance Fees

In an effort to improve fairgoer safety and efficiency of entry into the N.C. State Fair, a modified clear bag policy will be in place in 2023. This policy is only in effect for the N.C. State Fair in October and does not extend to additional events held at the N.C. State Fairgrounds. 

The N.C. State Fair will operate two security checkpoints at each gate. Those fairgoers who bring a clear bag will go through a much quicker inspection, while those with an opaque bag will go through our bag search line. In an effort to get you into the fun as quickly as possible, please bring your items in a clear bag. There is no size limit to the clear bag being accepted. 

Outside food and drink, water bottles, diaper bags with baby/toddler supplies and medications are allowed.