Planning your visit to the NC State Fair means navigating 11 packed days of agricultural exhibits, deep-fried foods, and midway thrills. The NC State Fair runs from October 16 through October 26, bringing millions of visitors to Raleigh. If you're heading out to the fairgrounds, knowing the exact schedule, admission tiers, and transit options saves you both time and cash.
Ticket prices shift depending on when you buy. Advance tickets cost $10 for adults ages 13 to 64 and $5 for youth ages 6 to 12. Once the gates open on October 17, prices bump up to $13 for adults and $7 for children. Kids aged five and under get in free every day. Grabbing your passes early online is the easiest way to cut down your entry costs.
Schedule and Operating Hours
The fair opens its gates at noon on Thursday, October 16. For the rest of the run, daily hours vary slightly depending on the day of the week.
- Opening Day (Oct 16): Noon to 11:00 PM
- Fridays and Saturdays (Oct 17-18, Oct 24-25): 9:00 AM to 11:30 PM
- Sunday through Thursday (Oct 19-23, Oct 26): 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM or 11:00 PM
Exhibits, livestock barns, and vendor booths keep busy schedules. If you want to beat the massive weekend crowds, aim for a weekday morning right when the gates open at 9:00 AM.
Saving Money on Admission and Rides
Beyond buying early, several special discount days help stretch your budget. Military members and their families can purchase discounted tickets for $8 at the gate with a valid military ID.
Another popular option is Smithfield Foods Hunger Relief Day, held on Thursday, October 23. Bringing six cans of food grants you free admission for that day, supporting the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina.
When it comes to rides, individual tickets cost $1 each at the fair, but most major midway attractions require five to six tickets. Buying an advance sheet of 18 ride tickets online for $11 offers a solid discount over buying them on-site. Unlimited ride wristbands are also available for $30 to $39 in advance, jumping to around $40 if purchased at the grounds. Keep in mind that wristbands don't cover admission or sky attractions like the State Fair Flyer.
Parking and Getting to the Fairgrounds
Traffic around Blue Ridge Road and Hillsborough Street gets heavy fast. Fortunately, official parking at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds and nearby lots like Carter-Finley Stadium and the Lenovo Center is entirely free.
If those lots fill up, use the free park-and-ride shuttles running continuously from the corner of Edwards Mill Road and Reedy Creek Road. These shuttles drop you off right at Gate 8 on Trinity Road, saving you a long walk. Train travelers can even take advantage of the temporary Amtrak station established right at Gate 2, served by regional routes.
What to Eat and See
Food is a massive part of the experience, with dozens of new creations debuting alongside classic turkey legs, funnel cakes, and fried treats. Head to the NC Public House to sample local craft beers and wines produced right across the state.
Beyond the food, you'll find nightly fireworks near Gate 8 starting at 9:45 PM, hundreds of free musical performances through the Homegrown Music Festival, and traditional agricultural competitions, including tractor pulls and livestock judging.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring outside food and drinks into the fair?
Yes, you can bring small coolers with snacks and non-alcoholic beverages into the fairgrounds. However, glass bottles and alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited.
Are pets allowed on the fairgrounds?
Only service animals trained to do work or perform tasks for guests with disabilities are permitted inside the fairgrounds. Emotional support animals are not allowed.
What is the best time of day to avoid long lines?
Weekday mornings between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM experience the lowest foot traffic. Lines for food vendors and popular rides grow significantly by midday and peak during the evening hours.
Are strollers and wheelchairs available for rent?
Strollers, wagons, and manual or electric wheelchairs are available for rent near the main gates on a first-come, first-served basis. Bringing your own is recommended if you have specific mobility needs.
