Everything You Need to Know About The NC State Fair in Raleigh!

For two weeks every October, Ferris wheels, farm animals, fried foods, and family-oriented fun are among the attractions at the N.C. State Fair in Raleigh. The largest annual event held in North Carolina (drawing over one million people!!!), the N.C. State Fair showcases the finest local talents the Tar Heel State has to offer. Horses and handicrafts, beer and wine, music and mums… There is something for everyone.  

Rides, Games, Attractions & Food at the NC State Fair

Northern Carolinians are always up for a good time at a festival, and the N.C. State Fair is the greatest of these events. Founded in 1853, the fair is organized by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, and is one of the largest and oldest state fairs in the United States. The N.C. State Fair has been in the same place – the North Carolina State Fairgrounds off Blue Ridge Road – since 1928. It covers 344 acres and includes Dorton Arena, a 7,600-seat arena listed in the National Register of Historic Places. 

In addition to the vaunted history of the N.C. State Fair, its most well-known feature is its many exhibits. From the Antique Farm Machinery exhibit to the Flower and Garden Show to the Forest Service exhibit, visitors are immersed in the state’s past, present and future. The Field of Dreams is a mini-farm where children can see how food is grown, taste produce, and take mini tractor rides. Got to Be NC Agriculture features cooking demos, pop-up cooking contests, and free food samples. The Heritage Circle consists of historic buildings, blacksmith and gristmill demos, and samples of apple cider. The Village of Yesteryear features artists and crafters creating, displaying, and selling handmade crafts. The State Fair Ark has more than fifty animals on display, including cattle, goats, sheep, and swine.

Next to the exhibits, the food at the N.C. State Fair is the biggest attraction. Festive, unusual and decadent, this is the fair food of your imagination. From classics like funnel cakes, turkey legs, and fried Oreos to local vendors selling unique treats, you’ll find all kinds of culinary experiences. 

The longest line is usually found at Peachey’s Baking Company. Their fresh donuts and pretzels are everything you dream about - hot, fluffy, and yeasty. If you love fried stuff, Hot Wisconsin Cheese serves up fried mozzarella sticks, fried cheddar nuggets, and more. Other top recommendations include Oak City Fish and Chips, a popular restaurant in Raleigh known for their lobster pops and salmon bites, and ​​Golden K Dog Korean corn dogs and fried wings. 

When you need something cool and refreshing, Tropical Delights Smoothies is the spot. Their smoothies are fresh and fruity. CocoCrissi’s Italian ice is smooth and refreshing, too. Time for dessert? The Cookie House has hot chocolate chip cookies and ice-cold milk. And Minneapple Pie serves deep-fried mini pies with flavors like apple, chocolate, and pumpkin. (PRO TIP: pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and an apple caramel drizzle!) 

Let’s see… we’ve covered exhibits and food. What else? Oh, yes. The rides! The N.C. State Fair has the largest midway at any state fair! There are more than 100 rides, including the State Fair Flyer (a ski lift-like ride) and the Pirate Ship. MUST DO: Ride the SkyGazer. The 155-foot tall Ferris wheel is the largest in the USA (it holds 200 people at a time!) and offers fantastic park views. There are also haunted houses, coasters, trains, swings and games. 

Tickets to the N.C. State Fair are available online (or in person once the fair begins). Prices range from $5 to $13. Group rates are available.  

Our New Homes in Raleigh Are Never Far from Fun!

Whether it’s the N.C. State Fair or any of the other innumerable attractions in the Raleigh area, our homes are never far from the fun! 

Barrington in Zebulon, NC | 32 minutes to the Fair by car!

This master-planned community offers spacious townhomes and a variety of single family homes. Residents also have access to a Junior Olympic pool, community clubhouse, and nearly 100 acres of open green space.

Forestville Towns in Wake Forest, NC | 32 minutes to the Fair by car!

Located right in the heart of Wake Forest, Forestville Towns features 3-story townhome plans. The community includes a dog park, a grass volleyball and bocce ball court, and access to nearby walking trails.

Glenmere Gardens in Knightdale, NC | 21 minutes to the Fair by car!

This single-family home community includes a community center, community pool, and trails. Residents enjoy the local retail, restaurants, and breweries while being close to everything offered in Raleigh. 

Knightdale Station in Knightdale, NC | 26 minutes to the fair by car!

Knightdale Station is conveniently next to downtown Knightdale and Knightdale Station Park. Residents enjoy an abundance of outdoor activities at Knightdale Station Park, plus retail, dining, and family activities near the community. 

Lakestone Townhomes in Fuquay-Varina, NC | 32 minutes to the Fair by car!

This community’s affordable pricing and amazing location make it a great fit for anyone. Conveniently located in Fuquay Varina, residents enjoy plentiful parks, breweries, restaurants, and events as well as easy access to the Raleigh metro. 

Mews at Preston Ridge in Cary, NC | 15 minutes to the Fair by car!

These luxury 4-story townhomes are conveniently located near RDU and Research Triangle Park. This walkable community has a dog park and is minutes from local parks, a golf course, shopping and schools! 

North Lakes at South Lakes in Fuquay-Varina, NC | 34 minutes to the Fair by car!

Located in bustling Fuquay-Varina, North Lakes at South Lakes is a single family home community  with amenities such as a community pool, clubhouse, kayak/canoe launch, lake, picnic pavilion, and trails. 

Connect with Dream Finders for More Info on Our Homes!

Whether you’re new to Raleigh or just love being a tourist in your own town, you can hit up the N.C. State Fair, explore the parks, or discover something new about the city pretty much every day. If you’re interested in learning more about Dream Finders homes for sale near Raleigh, NC, connect with one of the most trusted home builders in Raleigh today.