Everything you need to know about the 2024 N.C. State Fair
As two gals born and raised in North Carolina, the NC State Fair has been a cherished tradition for us for as long as we can remember. Every fall, the Fair brings the best of North Carolina together, and we wouldn’t miss it for the world! Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned attendee, we’ve put together our insider tips on the best things to do, see, eat, and more. Get ready for a fun-filled trip to one of the best events in NC!
When to Go
Images from Thriving in Raleigh
The NC State Fair runs from October 17th to October 27th, 2024, giving you 11 days of excitement and fun. Here’s a breakdown of the hours and special event days:
Fair Hours:
Thursday, October 17 (Opening Day): Gates open at 12 p.m.
Friday, October 18 - Sunday, October 27: Gates open daily from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.
The rides start operating around 10 a.m. on most days and continue until midnight.
Special Event Days:
Wolfpack Day (October 17th) : Students at NC State get admission for just $8 by showing their NC State Student ID card at the gate!
accessABILITY Day presented by Bandwidth (October 20th): From 9am-1pm, enjoy a sensory-friendly experience with no flashing lights, muted games, and auoustic performances. Public announcements will only be for lost visitors
Senior Citizens Day (October 22nd): Free admission for guests aged 65 and older.
Military Appreciation Day (October 23rd): The N.C. State Fair will pay tribute to members of the U.S. Military for their service to the country.
Hunger Relief Day (October 24th): Bring 6 food items and get in free! (Not just cans in 2024. With donations this year going to western N.C. Hurricane Helene relief efforts, other food items are encouraged.)
What to Do and See
Images from Thriving in Raleigh
The NC State Fair offers a wide variety of activities and attractions that appeal to every age group. Here are a few things you shouldn’t miss:
Rides & Games: The classics! Christy loves the thrill of the rides and Olivia loves the games!
Christy’s favorite ride: The Zipper
Olivia’s favorite ride: The Ferris Wheel or Swings
Christy’s favorite game: Water Blaster and Darts
Olivia’s favorite game: Water Blaster and Bottle Toss
Live Music & Shows: Whether it’s a local band or a national act, there’s always live entertainment happening!
Agriculture Exhibits: NC is known for its farming roots, and the livestock competitions and farm exhibits are a great way to get up close with the animals. You’ll see everything from giant pumpkins to prize-winning pigs.
Crafts & Competitions: Local artisans display their amazing work, from quilting and pottery to photography. Check out the creative competitions to see NC’s talent on full display.
Must-Try Foods
Images from NC State Fair
We all know the real reason we go to the Fair—the food! Every year, the NC State Fair rolls out new, inventive, and indulgent treats. Here are our absolute must-try foods:
Fried Goods: You haven’t experienced the Fair until you’ve tried something fried. Fried Oreos, fried pickles, and even fried spaghetti.
Olivia’s favorite: Fried oreos
Christy’s favorite: Funnel cake
Corn: Our favorite! Corn in a cup, corn on the cob, corn dogs, street corn, etc.
New This Year: We’re excited to try the new crazy concoctions!
Olivia’s excited to try: Glazed Donut Coffee Float and Deep Fried Cannoli
Christy’s excited to try: Mexican Street Corn Nachos and Mexican Street Corn Potato
Admission
left image from Canva Gallery | right image from Morrisville Community
Here’s the breakdown of admission prices for the 2024 NC State Fair:
Adults (Ages 13-64): $10 online, $13 at the gate
Youth (Ages 6-12): $5 online, $7 at the gate
Children (Ages 5 & Under): Free admission
Note: Online tickets can be purchased through October 17th!
Parking & Getting Around
Images from Thriving in Raleigh
State Fair Parking Lots: Official Fair parking is available, but it fills up fast. Get there early to secure a spot!
Park & Ride: If you want to avoid the hassle of parking, take advantage of the Park & Ride shuttles. These shuttles pick you up from various locations around Raleigh and drop you right at the Fair’s entrance.
Rideshare: Uber and Lyft have designated drop-off zones to make arriving and leaving stress-free.
Hope you have the best time at the fair! 🎡🎟️🎢
For even more events to explore in Raleigh this October, be sure to check out our full events calendar!
Is there something we’ve missed? Please let us know here!
Want to see your event in our next blog? Fill out our inquiry form here!