The calendar turns to October this weekend which means the 2017 N.C. State Fair is just days away. To ensure the safety of workers and others on the grounds in the busy final days of preparation, access to the fairgrounds will be restricted from Friday night, Sept. 29, until 3 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 12, when the fair opens. Access to the grounds will be limited to those with special-access passes issued by the State Fair. Employees, vendors, exhibitors and members of the news media are among those who will be allowed with proper credentials.
“In recent years, we have seen more and more people coming out to the fairgrounds in the days leading up to the fair, and with all the vehicles, heavy equipment, carnival rides and workers moving around on the grounds during that time, the crowds have created a risk for themselves and the workers,” said Wesley Wyatt, State Fair manager. “We want to make sure everyone has room to do their jobs as safely as possible.”
The N.C. State Fair runs Oct. 12-22 at the State Fairgrounds. On Thursday, Oct. 12, admission to the fair will be $1.50 in celebration of the 150th State Fair. For more information, visit www.ncstatefair.org.
Pick up your advance tickets and save money. Tickets are available through Oct. 12 at Gate 9 of the Fairgrounds, the N.C. Museum of History (weekdays only), State Farmers Market and Triangle Town Center. Tickets are also available online and at Food Lion grocery store check out lines.
Events at the Hunt Horse Complex this weekend:
A blue ribbon winner is all smiles at the North Carolina Special Olympics Equestrian Tournament.
- The Special Olympics is Friday through Sunday in the Hunt Horse Complex. The event will feature over 125 athletes from 20 different counties competing for the equestrian championship in dressage, showmanship and English and Western trails and equitation. Hours are Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free for spectators.
- The NCHJA “C” Outdoors Horse Show is Friday through Sunday in the Hunt Horse Complex. Daily activities at the hunter horse shows begin at 8 a.m. Admission is free for spectators.
The Raleigh Flea Market will reopen Nov. 4.
