Author: Katie Hubbard

Matchett demonstrates the art of hypnosis at his family friendly show

It’s no secret the State Fair offers a variety of events. It is the perfect place to find something for each family member, whether it’s cotton candy, the giant Ferris wheel, or listening to bluegrass music at Heritage Circle. I bet you didn’t know that there are multiple performances catered to entertain the entire family, from ages four to ninety-four. One of them being the Comedy Hypnotist show performed by Brad Matchett. This family-friendly Vegas-style show is one you will not want to miss due to its highly anticipated return for the first time since 2017. Brad uses volunteers picked…

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Agricadabra makes agriculture magical and funny

If you are looking for somewhere to take the whole family, you’ve come to the right place. At the N.C. State Fair, you will find a handful of highly talented musicians, delicious food, and entertaining performances. One, in particular, and a family favorite, is Agricadabra. Hosted by entertainer Brad Matchett, Agricadabra is a family-friendly magic show that is not only fun but educational. Using volunteers from the audience, Brad highlights all things agriculture within North Carolina. The show dives into fun farming topics, such as the average age of the farmers in your state, questions about chicken and egg production,…

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The Kennedy Family has a fair devotion to swine

Brian and Sherry Kennedy of Duplin County are devoted N.C. State fairgoers. Not only do they pack up the family to attend the annual State Fair, but they are keen livestock competitors, especially when it comes to showing swine. Brian Kennedy’s passion for livestock started at a young age. “My life has always been ingrained in agriculture. Growing up, I was a part of FFA. At first, I started by showing steers and heifers and then moved into swine showmanship.” Brian is the finishing production manager at Prestage Farms where he has worked since 1991. His job at Prestage Farms,…

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In-person Interns are back: Meet Sweet Potato

Katie Hubbard

Hi, I’m Katie, recently nicknamed Sweet Potato by my fun and loving coworkers here at the Department of Agriculture. I am so lucky to be the first in-person intern since 2019; I was even granted my own ultra mini desk. (I’m only kidding), it’s wonderful here, and I can’t wait to become part of such a memorable event. A little bit about me, I’m a rising junior at UNC-Chapel Hill, where I am studying Communications with a concentration in media, technology, and production. Before starting college, I grew up in Wilkesboro, a rural farm-loving town at the foothills of the…

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