My name is Sarah Crump, however, in reference to all things “Deep Fried” I’ll be going by Super Shot —my all-time favorite N.C. State Fair ride. I’ve always been an adrenaline junkie and, for me, nothing could be more magical than enjoying the crisp autumn air and the sights, sounds and smells of the fair for the few seconds before the drop tower’s heart-stopping fall. I’ve attended the fair every year since before I can remember, so trust me when I say it’s a must-attend event. I am beyond excited to be the State Fair public relations intern this summer and I hope to get you all just as excited for all things fair-related through my posts.

Horticulture department hopes new mushroom competitions grows

Growing your own mushrooms can all start with a roll of toilet paper. For the first year, the N.C. State Fair’s Horticulture Department featured a mushroom competition and April Blazich, the department’s superintendent, said she hopes the new competition and mushroom display in the Exposition Center will encourage fairgoers to try something different – producing mushrooms in their own homes and gardens. “We’re trying to convince people to try something new,” Blazich said. “Garden even if you think you can’t.” Although there were only two entrants in this year’s competition, Blazich said she is confident the mushroom display will raise…

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It’s a State Fair Adventure

When it comes to maximizing your N.C. State Fair experience, look no further than our State Fair Scavenger Hunts. This morning Wildflower and I took on both of this year’s scavenger activities – one being a general hunt and the other a STEM-based excursion – and discovered that the thrill of the hunt is truly alive on the fairgrounds. Whether you’re looking for an educational activity or need help figuring out what to see and do, these scavenger hunts are sure to ensure that you’re making the most of your time. As a long-time fair attendee, I know how easy…

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Got To Be NC Tent to offer Carolina Kettle snacks, among other N.C. products

In addition to the plethora of food options available at the N.C. State Fair, fairgoers can also sample and discover food products from across North Carolina at the Got to Be NC Agriculture exhibit. Located outside the Kerr Scott Building, the tent will offer a variety of products representing the state’s diverse agricultural diversity. There will also be a NC Soybean Producers Association coloring wall that fairgoers can color in and use to learn more about products they can buy locally. Food will be available to taste and purchase from 25 North Carolina vendors throughout the fair, with some showing…

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Deep South’s OC7 Next Generation Series is this Sunday

Deep South Entertainment, the company behind booking the 117 concerts that are a part of the N.C. State Fair’s Homegrown Music Fest, is promising fairgoers a diverse lineup of Carolina-bred musical acts. Featuring the likes of long-established artists such as Maceo Parker, the fest will also feature newcomers from Deep South’s OC7 Next Generation roster, comprised of artists ages 13-19 years old. On Sunday, Oct. 16 fairgoers can check out three of these young artists at 10 a.m. on the Kitchencraft Waterfall Stage.  Morgan Williams A country pop singer/songwriter from Sanford, NC, Morgan Williams started performing at the age of…

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2016 N.C. State Fair Bucket List

‘Tis N.C. State Fair season and nothing could be finer. And whether you’re a State Fair veteran or a rookie, you know there is something magical about the state fair that is calling your name. Between the cool autumn nights kept well-lit by the carnival midway, the deep-fried delicacies, and the engaging exhibits and entertainment, what’s not to like? To make sure you’re taking full advantage of your time at the fair, we’ve listed some things that you must do at this year’s event, Oct. 13-23. See a concert on every stage. As a part of this year’s Homegrown Music…

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10 fun STEM activities for kids at the State Fair

Learn about the important role bees and pollinators play in producing our food. The Bee Exhibit in the Expo Building features beekeepers and an active beehive on display.

Shhhh… don’t tell the kids! The State Fair is more than fun, it’s also educational. Check out out Top 10 activities to participate in science, technology, engineering and math-oriented (STEM) activities at the fair, Oct. 13-23. 1. The brink floater mussel is the Wildlife Resources Commission’s featured species of the year, and fairgoers can see these freshwater mussels up close to learn more about these invertebrates and their importance to freshwater ecosystems. The exhibit is located near the Village of Yesteryear and the Children’s Barnyard. 2. Stop by the tobacco barn in Heritage Circle to see how tobacco leaves were…

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Celebrate North Carolina’s military on Military Appreciation Day Oct. 19

The Military Appreciation Day Parade will be held at 11 a.m. on the main midway and through Kiddieland.

The N.C. State Fair will celebrate members of the U.S. Military for their contributions to keeping our country safe on Military Appreciation Day, Wednesday, Oct. 19. As part of this tribute there will be several activities for fairgoers to participate in. Here’s a look at the deals and activities planned. Free pins The first 3,000 people through the gates on Military Appreciation Day will receive a military appreciation pin. Military Appreciation Parade The parade will feature a Bradley Fighting Vehicle, a World War II-era torpedo, the N.C. Patriot Guard and more. The parade kicks off on the main carnival midway…

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50 free things to do at the 2016 N.C. State Fair

Kids of all ages will find activities throughout the flower and garden show area.

The saying is true: When it comes to the North Carolina State Fair, nothing could be finer. With no shortage of food or fun, fairgoers can find plenty of free activities to enjoy once they walk through the gates. We’ve put together the following list of 50 free things to do: 1.    Fairgoers who bring at least five cans of Food Lion brand food to the N.C. State Fair can receive a free admission ticket to the fair as part of Food Lion Hunger Relief Day Thursday, Oct. 20. 2.    Take a five-minute riding lesson taught by instructors from across…

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Dinosaurs, unicorns and pirates oh my! New, free acts invade the Fair

One of the things that makes the N.C. State Fair so special for many fairgoers is the blending of the traditional with the promise of something new. Each year, it’s a pretty good bet that you will find many of your fair favorites along with some new must-try foods or must-visit entertainment. And this year, fairgoers will find plenty of new grounds acts to entertain them, including dinosaurs, unicorns and pirates. Here’s a quick guide to the new acts at the 2016 N.C. State Fair: Roving Acts Dream City Unicorns – Flower & Garden Show area: Fantasy becomes reality as…

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Mobility issues don’t limit the opportunity for fun at the fair

  The N.C. State Fair is 100 acres of fun activities, food, exhibits, shows and displays, which may seem daunting for anyone with mobility issues, but it doesn’t have to deter plans for a visit. The fair offers plenty of options for individuals with accessibility needs, from getting to and from the fair, to moving around the fairgrounds and enjoying the diverse exhibits and entertainment. Nearly all of the grounds are paved, making it easier to move around. Start making your plans to attend the 2016 N.C. State Fair, Thursday, Oct. 13, through Sunday, Oct. 23. Following is a partial…

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