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 these giant stilt-walking unicorns wander through the Flower and Garden Show grounds. Be sure to check out these performers at night, when their costumes glow.
- Fire Stryker – Kiddieland: A fire-breathing, smoke-blowing dragon will be roaming through Kiddieland with the help of its handler, a medieval king. But no worries, it’s a friendly dinosaur.
- Tangled Threads – North side of Dorton Arena: Check out the not-to-be-missed Jarquin and Jen, a human doll marionette controlled by a 9-foot-tall wind up man.
Stationary Acts
- International All-Star Circus – Between Gates 9 and 10: Cuteness overload with circus dogs performing tricks, including a fun-filled doggie fashion show.
- Pirates of Columbian Caribbean – Near Gate 11: Avast ye, matey and lose yourself in a world of thrilling pirate action! The Pirates of the Colombian Caribbean act features a family of performers who will act out the story of pirates battling over treasure, while doing tricks on a high wire.
- Wolves of the World Show – Behind the Scott Building, near Gate 10: Listen to the Sandlofer family recount the history of wolves at the Wolves of the World show. This show features a pack of trained wolves performing tricks and educating audiences about the importance of wolves in the ecosystem.
Children’s Entertainment
- The Cutest Show on Earth – Kiddieland: Your kids might be the stars in this high-energy, audience-participation show. Up to 18 kids of all ages will be selected just minutes before show time. This show is designed to get children to use their imaginations and work together.
- Guy Gilchrist: Famed Syndicated Cartoonist & Writer – Field of Dreams: Fans of notable cartoons such as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Looney Tunes, can see the artist who helped create them. Guy Gilchrist will be in the Field of Dreams tent to entertain kids with interactive stories he illustrates on the spot.
- The Magic Bean – Kiddieland: This magic show combines fun with learning. Kids of all ages will learn about agriculture and how products go “from the farm to their dinner plates.”
These acts, and some old favorites, are free with your gate admission.
