The North Carolina State Fair is a full of fun. From games to rides and even competitions, great memories are made with all that the Fair has to offer. But who says that one cannot have fun and learn at the same time? At the 2023 N.C. State Fair, there are educational opportunities for all ages, from elementary school to high school and beyond.
One of the many educational offerings at the Fair are the State Fair Adventurer Scavenger Hunts presented by the North Carolina PTA for elementary through high school ages. There are three different scavenger hunts available, all different levels of difficulty. One is for elementary school students, one for middle school and one for high school students. Designed to walk students through the State Fairgrounds to 10 different stops, the scavenger hunts take students to various exhibits and displays on the fairgrounds.
Each of the 10 stops start with a question, which students find out the answer to at their next location. Not only does this allow students to learn more about North Carolina, it also educates them on agriculture, their state’s number one industry.
Each edition of the scavenger hunt includes questions of varying difficulty in order to cater to its desired audience.
For example, here is an elementary level question for the Field of Dreams:
What is another name for a baby rabbit?
In contrast, the high school level question would ask:
How many varieties of tomatoes are there worldwide?
After students read and think about the questions, answers can be found at the coordinating answer location. Signs will provide students with answers, and some locations have exhibit staff available. Teachers can request an answer key in advance if they wish.
At the end of their day learning and exploring the N.C. State Fair, completed scavenger hunts can be turned in at the information booth in front of the Agri Supply Expo Center. Students will be awarded a ribbon for the completion of the activity.
Even if you don’t participate in the scavenger hunts, there are several other educational offerings at the fair. Some options include:
- Field of Dreams: This exhibit features a variety of interactive displays that teach students about agriculture. Students can learn about how crops are grown, how livestock are raised, and how farm equipment works.
- Flower and Garden Show: This show features beautiful flowers and plants from all over the state. Students can learn about the different types of flowers and plants, as well as how to care for them.
- Horticultural Exhibits: These exhibits showcase the work of North Carolina’s master gardeners. Students can learn about a variety of gardening topics, including plant selection, soil preparation, and pest control.
- Heritage Circle: This area of the fairgrounds features a variety of historical exhibits, including a replica of a 19th-century farmstead. Students can learn about the history of North Carolina and how the state has changed over time.
- N.C. Soil and Water Conservation: This exhibit educates on how local Soil and Water Conservation Districts affects daily life. People can learn about their soil underneath their feet and various conservation practices used in our state.
- Antique Farm Machinery exhibit: A display filled with vintage farm tools, this location takes you back in time through North Carolina’s history and shows more than a dozen tractors dating back to the 1930s.
The North Carolina State Fair is a great place to learn about a variety of topics. The scavenger hunts are a fun and interactive way to learn about North Carolina and agriculture. If you’re looking for a fun and educational way to spend a day, be sure to check out the North Carolina State Fair.
Here are some additional tips for making the most of the educational offerings at the North Carolina State Fair:
- Plan ahead: Before you go to the fair, take some time to look at the educational offerings and decide which ones you’re interested in. This will help you make the most of your time at the fair. Visit www.ncstatefair.org to learn about all of the attractions available at this year’s Fair. Check out the education page for pdf versions of the scavenger hunts, activity books and other games. Finally, checkout insider tips for planning a group trip to the fair for more ideas.
- Ask questions: Don’t be afraid to ask questions of the fair staff or the exhibitors. They’re happy to answer your questions and help you learn more about the exhibits.
- Have fun: The North Carolina State Fair is a great place to learn, but it’s also a great place to have fun. So, relax, enjoy yourself, and learn something new!
