What to Expect at the 2025 NC State Fair

The Giant Wheel offers sweeping views of the NC State Fairgrounds in Raleigh.

The North Carolina State Fair is back and runs through Sunday, October 26, bringing 11 days of rides, food, and entertainment to the state fairgrounds in Raleigh. According to the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the fair celebrates the best of the state, from its $111 billion agriculture industry and talented crafters to its foods and the award-winning skills of its residents.

The fair offers a wide range of food and treats. Vendors serve meals such as Korean barbecue, Philly cheesesteaks, and Italian sausage, while popular treats include candy apples, fried Oreos, and chamoy pickles.

The Red Trouser Show performs their acrobatic act at the fair.

Visitors can enjoy live entertainment throughout the fairgrounds, including The Red Trouser Show, an acrobatic performance, and live music from groups such as Say Less The Band, an R&B and soul group from Raleigh. A full schedule of events is available here.

General admission is $13 for adults ages 13 to 64, $8 for active service members, $5 for senior citizens, and $7 for children ages 6 to 12. Children 5 and under are admitted free. Visitors can get their hand stamped at the gate for same-day re-entry.

Ride access varies, with some included through an unlimited ride wristband and others requiring separate tickets. Rides like the Mega Drop, Mighty Mouse Roller Coaster, and Dragon Coaster are included with the wristband. The Giant Wheel, State Fair Flyer, and State Fair Slide require individual tickets.

A view of the fairgrounds from the State Fair Flyer.

Visitors traveling from Charlotte can reach the fair by taking I-85 North to I-40 East, exiting at Wade Avenue (Exit 289) and Edwards Mill Road, and following signs to State Fair parking. Free parking is available on the fairgrounds and Carter-Finley Stadium property, though arriving early is recommended. Parking areas fill quickly, and traffic peaks throughout the day. The fairgrounds are located at 4285 Trinity Rd., Raleigh, NC 27607.

Tickets can be purchased online here or on-site at the gate.

Remaining hours are 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. from October 19 to 23, 9 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. on October 24 and 25, and 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. on October 26. The fair is open only until Sunday, so visitors planning to attend should make plans soon.

Article and Photos By: Noah Kuxhausen

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