On any given day at the N.C. State Fair, you can catch more than 20 free performances from our lineup of talented grounds entertainment. You can see BMX stunt bikers flying through the air, witness the side-splitting powers of a comedy superhero and even see the super-fast speed of racing swine. They’re just a few of the free entertainment options, which also includes eight roaming acts and at least six daily concerts on the Waterfall and Bluegrass stages. The following is a rundown of this year’s grounds acts. What are your favorite acts at the State Fair?
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Circle “C” Racing Pigs: The racing pigs have become a State Fair tradition over the years. There’s just something fun about seeing pigs race around a track for a cheese puff. Here are some tips for enjoying the pig races from our 2009 Deep Fried Ambassador.
When: Daily near Gate 9 at 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9 p.m., except for Oct. 13, when races will start at 5, 7 and 9 p.m. |
| King Action Sports Stunt Show: X-Games alumni and local favorite Keith King will bring his troupe of traveling BMX bike riders and freestyle Motocross riders back to the Grandstand for more high-flying ramp tricks and flatland stunts. Each year, Keith adds something new to the show. Last year, he teamed up with Susan G. Komen for the Cure. We can’t wait to see what’s new this year.
When: Shows will be held at the Sam Rand Grandstand Oct. 17-23 at noon, 3, 5 and 7 p.m. |
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The Amazing Arthur Fratelli, Professional Showoff and Comedy Superhero: Arthur’s show is a little bit of magic, a little bit of juggling, a little bit of yo-yoing and a whole lot of comedy. In other words, there’s something for everyone. You can read more about Arthur Fratelli and his show here.
When: Daily in front of the Expo Center Oct. 13 at 6 p.m. and Oct. 14-23 at 2, 4 and 6 p.m., with an extra show at noon on Saturdays. |
| Steve Brogan: The comic ventriloquist impressed audiences with his N.C. State Fair debut last year, and he’s back for another round. Elmer, Edgar and Rodney Duckerfield will join Steve as he makes fairgoers laugh outside the Expo Center. For more on Steve Brogan, check out our blog post from last year.
When: Daily in front of the Expo Center Oct. 13 at 3:30 and 5 p.m. and Oct. 14-23 at 1, 3 and 5 p.m., with an extra show at 11 a.m. on Saturdays. |
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Michelle’s Magical Poodles: One of the more popular acts at the Kiddieland Fun Park Stage, the show features Michelle and her pack of poodles performing jaw-dropping stunts. See how Michelle prepares for each performance in our behind-the-scenes look from 2009.
When: Performances Oct. 13 at 4 p.m., and Oct. 14-23 at 2 and 4 p.m. |
| Magic 4U: Brad Matchett mixes agriculture and magic together in a fun and “agri-cadabra” filled performance. Stop by the show and you may walk away with one his elaborate balloon animals.
When: In Kiddieland Fun Park Oct. 13 at 5 p.m. and Oct. 14-23 at 1, 3 and 5 p.m. |
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Hubba Bubba the Clown: Hubba Bubba is a State Fair staple and a great show, featuring magic, juggling, balloon art and, of course, comedy for the entire family. You can also see Hubba Bubba roaming the fairgrounds with impromptu performances daily.
When: Performances in Kiddieland Fun Park Thursday, Oct. 13 at 6 p.m., and Oct. 14-23 at noon and 6 p.m. |
| Steve Trash: The eco-magician is back for another year of outstanding magic with an environmental twist. If you haven’t seen his show already, make sure to catch at least one performance this year. Check out our post on Steve Trash from 2009.
When: Shows on the north side of Dorton Arean Oct. 13 at 3:30 p.m., and Oct. 14-23 at 2, 4, and 6 p.m., with an extra show Saturdays at noon. |
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Dale Jones: There are a few jugglers at the N.C. State Fair, but Dale Jones is the only one to do it one-handed. Check out his motivational and entertaining performance about overcoming adversity.
When: Performances on the north side of Dorton Arena Oct. 13 at 5 p.m., and Oct. 14-23 at 1, 3 and 5 p.m., with an extra show Saturdays at 11 a.m. |
Have you bought your tickets yet? Discount tickets are available online now through Oct. 13. Adult tickets are $6 in advance and children’s tickets are $2 in advance. Children 5 and under and seniors 65 and older get in free. All military personnel, including active duty, reserve, National Guard, retired and veterans are invited to take advantage of a discounted admission price of $5 every day of the Fair.
Steve Green Trash…hands down the best on the Midway.
I love the pigs, very entertaining!!