Fairgrounds Events

A Deep Fried goodbye from Wolf Tracks

Karsyn Westerbeek October 27 October 27

I cannot believe that it’s time to say goodbye to the Deep Fried Blog. A person’s first internship isn’t always a great experience, but I was lucky enough to work for the State Fair and the Department of Agriculture and have the best five months ever. When I first started as the Public Relations intern at the end of May, I truly did not know what to expect. Would I love it? Would I hate it? Spoiler alert – I loved it so much that I stuck around for the Fair. This experience has taught me so much. I have…

Feeling the heat: Behind-the-scenes with Ember Fire Arts

Rollercoaster October 21 October 20

As a fire performer, Amber Kornegay, owner and performer for Ember Fire Arts, often walks the line between being intriguing for people and seeming intimidating. However, at the heart of it all she is a simple girl with a passion for fire. We sat down with Amber and asked her ten questions that people are often afraid to ask her, but always curious to know the answer to. Catch one of her shows at the N.C. State Fair either at 9 p.m. or 10 p.m. down in Heritage Circle and keep reading to learn all about her passion, show and…

Revived fairgrounds park offers fun, food and a quiet spot to sit.

Tractor Pull October 19 October 19

Cotton Park on the fairgrounds is a special place for many visitors who consider it a destination and a pleasant escape from the hustle and bustle of the N.C. State Fair. The miniature park, with its brick walkways and landscaped setting, is between Dorton Arena and the Education Building on the southeast side of the fairgrounds. It’s also home to Casey’s Clubhouse, bordering Kiddieland near Gate 1. “To me, it’s a little out of the way and quieter, and you can find a place to sit down,” said Cathy Water of Raleigh. Water’s husband Ken grew up in a neighborhood…

A hidden gem at the N.C. State Fair: The Church in Heritage Circle

Rollercoaster October 18 October 17

The Historic Chapel in the Heritage Village at the N.C. State Fair, is a hidden gem amongst the food, rides, games and more. Each weekend of the N.C. State Fair, the North Carolina Campers on Mission host two church services on Sunday morning(s) for staff and fairgoers alike to attend. Whether you need a breath of prayer, a word of encouragement or a touch from the Holy Spirit, the Historic Chapel in Heritage Village is the place to spend Sunday morning at the fairgrounds. In 1857, the Historic Chapel in Heritage Village was known as the home of Ephesus Church…

From cattle showing to pet treats, Windmill Acres Farm-East keeps agriculture as a family priority

Karsyn Westerbeek October 18 October 5

The Farm Family of the Day is sponsored by Tractor Supply Company and seeks to recognize and celebrate the state’s rich agricultural heritage and many farm families that are behind the state’s agriculture and agribusiness industry. One family is recognized each day of the Fair, either nominated themselves or by members of their community. Congratulations to the 2023 Farm Families! Introducing the Farm Family of the Day for Wednesday, Oct. 18! Windmill Acres Farm-East is a fourth-generation cattle farm raising registered and purebred Hereford beef cattle in Forsyth County. Neil and Karen Fishel also produce show cattle for their three children and…

Volunteers help enhance State Fair experiences

Merrie Go Round October 16 October 16

“What did you pick for me today,” asked Princeton High School FFA member and Field of Dreams volunteer Collin Worley to a group of kids walking up with their baskets. “Let’s see what you have.” When visitors to the Field of Dreams walk through the exhibit and pick vegetables along the path, they take those items to the market stand where they can learn more about the vegetables. On Sunday, Worley, a senior, was joined by sophomores Blake Martin and Mason Rosenbaum. who stayed busy talking to guests about cucumbers, sweet potatoes and turnips. For many kids, the turnips were…

Graham Building offers several ways to learn about ag

Firecracker October 15 October 15

Many people head to the Graham Building to see the cows, but that’s not the only attraction in the building. If you look to the side of the show rings, you’ll notice the Moovie Theater, a 15-foot LED screen highlighting farms and farming practices from across the state. If you need a break, take a seat on one of the wooden benches and enjoy the videos. It’s a 3-hour loop, so if you really need a rest. You can even charge your phone while you’re sitting there. This corner of the building is sponsored by the barnyard – the N.C….

The Martin Family has been dedicated to agriculture for over 140 years

Karsyn Westerbeek October 15 October 5

The Farm Family of the Day is sponsored by Tractor Supply Company and seeks to recognize and celebrate the state’s rich agricultural heritage and many farm families that are behind the state’s agriculture and agribusiness industry. One family is recognized each day of the Fair, either nominated themselves or by members of their community. Congratulations to the 2023 Farm Families! Meet today’s Farm Family of the Day, J & J Martins Farm Produce! For four generations, the Martin family has operated out of Mount Olive, and has grown and changed with each generation. The family currently owns and operates both J &…

S&L Riverside Dairy – The Lail family impacts their community through agriculture

Karsyn Westerbeek October 14 October 5

The Farm Family of the Day is sponsored by Tractor Supply Company and seeks to recognize and celebrate the state’s rich agricultural heritage and many farm families that are behind the state’s agriculture and agribusiness industry. One family is recognized each day of the Fair, either nominated themselves or by members of their community. Congratulations to the 2023 Farm Families! Meet our Farm Family of the Day for Saturday, Oct. 14, S&L Riverside Dairy. Based in Vale, this farm is home to over 200 Holstein that are milked daily by this family. Corn, small grain silage and hay are also grown on…

The State Fair Bacon Trail is going on a Goosechase

Firecracker October 13 October 10

The Bacon Trail was a big hit at the N.C. State Fair last year, with fairgoers checking out more than 40 vendors with bacon on the menu. The Fair’s tastiest trail is becoming more exciting this year with the chance to compete in scavenger hunt-style missions to gain points for the daily chance to win a month’s worth of bacon from one of several North Carolina pork companies. Points are earned through purchasing food with bacon or interacting with pig-related exhibits throughout the fair. Earning 2,000 points is enough to be entered into the daily competition for free bacon. The…

Category: Fairgrounds Events