The NC State Fair is back October 15–25, 2026, bringing 84 new foods, exciting rides, live entertainment, and plenty of reasons to make a trip to the fairgrounds.

One of our favorite times of year in Raleigh is officially here! The North Carolina State Fair is returning for 11 days of fried food, midway rides, agricultural traditions, and unforgettable fall fun.

Whether you're heading to the fair for the food, planning a family outing, or looking for the best ways to avoid crowds and save money, we've rounded up everything you need to know before you go.

From pickle cheesecake and banana pudding flights to a brand-new 230-foot observation wheel, here's your ultimate guide to the 2026 NC State Fair in Raleigh.

Looking for even more fall fun? Explore our complete guide to October 2026 events in Raleigh for the best festivals, seasonal activities, and can't-miss happenings around the Triangle.

When Is the 2026 NC State Fair?

The 2026 North Carolina State Fair runs from Thursday, October 15, through Sunday, October 25, at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds in Raleigh.

2026 NC State Fair Hours:

• Thursday, October 15: Noon–11 PM
• Fridays and Saturdays, October 16–17 and 23–24: 9 AM–11:30 PM
• Sunday through Thursday, October 18–22 and October 25: 9 AM–11 PM

Location: North Carolina State Fairgrounds, 4285 Trinity Road, Raleigh, NC 27607

Dates: October 15–25, 2026

Website: www.ncstatefair.org

Important: Fairgoers must enter the fairgrounds before 9:45 PM. Re-entry is not permitted after 9:45 PM, even on nights when the fair remains open later.

If you're hoping to avoid the biggest crowds, we recommend visiting on a weekday and arriving early. Saturdays and late afternoons tend to be especially busy.

2026 NC State Fair Food: What You Need to Try

Let's be honest, one of the best parts of the NC State Fair is the food.

This year, the fair is introducing 84 new food creations, ranging from sweet treats and over-the-top comfort food to some combinations you have to see to believe.

With so many options, we've narrowed down some of the most interesting new additions to help you build your must-try list.

Sweet Treats Worth Saving Room For

If you have a sweet tooth, this year's fair is going to be dangerous in the best possible way.

Banana Pudding Flights | Angel Sweets

Why settle for one banana pudding when you can sample a flight? This is one we're especially excited to see on the menu.

Cookie Butter Cheesecake Donut | Fluffy's Hand Cut Donuts

Cookie butter, cheesecake, and donuts all in one dessert? This sounds like the ultimate fair treat.

Fresas Con Crema | Fontana Foods

Fresh strawberries served in a sweet, creamy sauce. A refreshing option when you need a break from all the fried food.

Thanks A'Latte Mini Pancakes | Hot Chix Hotcakes & Chicken

Mini pancakes topped with espresso chips, mocha, and more. Coffee lovers, this one's for you.

Blooming Deep-Fried Caramel Apples | The Candi Queen

A creative twist on a fall favorite, combining caramel apples with the fair's signature deep-fried indulgence.

Sweet Potato S'mores Slop Bucket | Lawrence & Perry Barbeque

Cinnamon-sugar sweet potato fries topped with caramel, chocolate, and marshmallow cream. It's the kind of unexpected combination that makes fair food so much fun.

Savory Foods You Don't Want to Miss

Come hungry, because the savory lineup is just as impressive.

Birria Egg Rolls with Consommé | Tacos Neza

Birria meets crispy egg rolls, served with consommé for dipping.

Dill Devil | Pickle Bun

Deviled pickles stuffed with cream cheese. Pickle lovers, this might be your new favorite fair snack.

Tosti-Elote | Red Carpet Amusements

A twist on Mexican street corn and walking tacos, bringing together bold flavors in a convenient fair-friendly snack.

Pimento Cheese Bombs | The Cheese Curd Shack

It wouldn't be a North Carolina food roundup without pimento cheese. These are going straight onto our must-try list.

Swamp Fries | Another Food Truck, LLC

Fries loaded with Cajun queso, blackened crawfish, and shrimp. A savory option for anyone craving something a little different.

Korean Fried Chicken Sandwich | Bulkogi

Korean-inspired fried chicken brings another delicious option to this year's lineup.

The Wildest New Fair Foods of 2026

Every year, the State Fair delivers a few food creations that leave us wondering who came up with them. This year is no exception.

Here are some of the most unexpected combinations:

• Pickle Cheesecake | Davis Concessions/Mr. Pickle: New York-style cheesecake on a stick, dipped in pickle-flavored white chocolate and rolled in crunchy dill pickle chips.
• Dubai Burger | Urban Olive Mediterranean: A creative burger inspired by Dubai-style flavors, featuring pistachio, crispy kataifi, and lamb shawarma influences.
• Deep-Fried Hawaiian Bacon S'mores Bites | Chef's D'lites: A sweet and savory combination featuring bacon and s'mores flavors.
• Caramel Biscoff Mozzarella K-Dog | GoldenKDog: A Korean-style corn dog with an unexpected sweet twist.
• Spicy Deep-Fried Pimento Cheese Balls | Gobblin Gourmet: Pimento cheese with jalapeños and pickles.

Would you try any of these?

New Drinks to Sip at the Fair

Between the rides, walking, and all that food, you'll definitely want something refreshing.

A few new drinks catching our attention include:

• Hometown Hero Dirty Soda | Dewey's Dirty Sodas: Cheerwine, pineapple juice, and vanilla cream.
• Apple Cider Dream | Bright Branch Farms: An apple cider slushie topped with caramel, cinnamon sugar, and a donut.
• Campfire S'mores Dirty Soda | Quench: A s'mores-inspired take on the popular dirty soda trend.
• Red, White and Birthday Brew | Tiki Tea: Birthday-flavored iced tea.
• Cookie Butter Coffee Float | Fluffy's Hand Cut Donuts: A dessert-inspired coffee creation.

Best of Raleigh Tip: If you're visiting with friends or family, split a few dishes so you can sample more of the new foods without getting full after your first stop.

For even more food inspiration, check out WRAL's 2026 State Fair food coverage and Visit Raleigh's guide to the best new fair foods.

What's New at the 2026 NC State Fair?

The food isn't the only thing getting an upgrade this year. There are also several exciting additions to the fairgrounds.

America 250 Wheel

One of the biggest new attractions is the America 250 Wheel, a massive 230-foot-tall portable observation wheel replacing the former SkyGazer.

Described as the largest portable observation wheel in the world, the attraction features 45 presidential-themed gondolas, each seating up to six riders, and offers impressive views of the fairgrounds.

For some of the best views of the State Fair, add this ride to your list.

America 250 Wheel Ticket Prices:

• Advance tickets: $6 per person
• During the fair: $7 per person

Important: The America 250 Wheel requires a separate ticket. It is not included with unlimited ride wristbands or regular carnival ride tickets. General fair admission is also required.

Learn more about the America 250 Wheel.

New Midway Rides

Thrill seekers can look forward to two new additions:

• Casino: A Vegas-themed spinning thrill ride.
• Twin Twister: A high-energy ride featuring rotating arms and platforms that complete full rotations.

Both join the fair's carnival midway, which offers attractions for different ages and thrill levels.

Midway Events Center

The fair is also introducing the Midway Events Center, a new food hall and event space replacing the former Restaurant Row.

It's another addition to explore while you're making your way around the fairgrounds.

For additional information about new attractions, explore the NC State Fair's official visitor guide.

Live Entertainment, Shows & Events

There's so much more to the State Fair than food and rides.

From monster trucks and tractor pulls to live music and family-friendly performances, the entertainment lineup offers something for just about everyone.

Some performances are included with general fair admission, while others require separate tickets.

Tractor Pulls & Motorsports Mayhem

If you're looking for an action-packed experience, head to the Sam G. Rand Grandstand.

United Pullers of the Carolinas Tractor Pull

• Friday, October 16: 6 PM
• Saturday, October 17: Noon and 6 PM
• Sunday, October 18: 1 PM

Tickets: $10 per person, with children ages 5 and under admitted free.

Important: Tractor pull tickets do not include general fair admission. A separate admission ticket is required to enter the fairgrounds.

Motorsports Mayhem

• Friday, October 23 at 7:30 PM: Monster trucks and quad racing.
• Saturday, October 24 at 7:30 PM: Monster trucks, quad racing, and demolition derby action featuring 4-, 6-, and 8-cylinder cars.
• Sunday, October 25 at 2:30 PM: Monster trucks, quad racing, and a minivan demolition derby featuring SUVs, CRVs, and small trucks.

Tickets: $10 per person, with children ages 5 and under admitted free.

Important: Motorsports Mayhem tickets are separate from general fair admission. Grandstand seating is limited, so purchasing tickets in advance is recommended.

For official show schedules and ticket information, visit the NC State Fair Grandstand Shows page.

Horse Shows & Rodeo Events

The Hunt Horse Complex will also host special events throughout the fair.

High School Rodeo

The North Carolina High School Rodeo Association will bring rodeo action to the fair on October 16 and 17.

Tickets: $12 per person, with children under age 5 admitted free.

Draft Horse Pull & Miniature Horse Pull

These popular events showcase the strength and skill of draft horses and miniature horses.

Tickets: $10 per person, per event, with children under age 5 admitted free.

Important: Rodeo and horse-pull tickets must be purchased separately from general fair admission. The fair's published horse-pull dates are inconsistent across its ticket information, so visitors should confirm the schedule before purchasing tickets or planning their visit.

For updated dates, event times, and ticket availability, visit the official NC State Fair Horse Shows page.

Free Entertainment Included With Admission

One of the best ways to make the most of your fair experience is to take advantage of the entertainment already included with admission.

A few highlights include:

• Homegrown Music Fest: Live performances featuring North Carolina musicians, from country and bluegrass to hip-hop and acoustic sets.
• The Red Trouser Show: Acrobatic stunts and comedy near Dorton Arena.
• The Birdman World Class Bird Show: Trained bird performances near Gate 7.
• Andy Rotz Wild West Show: Western-themed entertainment inside Gate 10.
• Southland Dairy Mobile Milking Classroom: Live milking demonstrations and educational activities.
• Cast In Bronze: Unique carillon bell performances in Heritage Circle.
• Nightly Fireworks: Fireworks scheduled for 9:45 PM each evening.

For families with younger children, the live demonstrations, animal exhibits, and free performances are great ways to enjoy the fair without spending the entire day on rides.

2026 NC State Fair Ticket Prices

Planning ahead can save you money, especially if you're bringing the whole family! Purchasing tickets in advance is one of the easiest ways to save on admission.

Here's a breakdown of 2026 NC State Fair admission prices:

• Adults (Ages 13–64): $10 in advance or $13 at the gate.
• Youth (Ages 6–12): $5 in advance or $7 at the gate.
• Seniors (Ages 65+): $5 in advance or at the gate.
• Children (Ages 5 and Under): Free admission.
• Military Adults: $8 at the gate with valid military identification, subject to eligibility requirements.

Planning a large group outing? Groups purchasing 40 or more tickets may qualify for advance group rates of $8 per adult and $4 per youth ticket.

Online admission purchases are subject to ticketing fees. Check the final price before completing your purchase.

Unlimited Ride Wristbands

Planning to hit the rides? You can save by purchasing an unlimited ride wristband before arriving.

2026 Unlimited Ride Wristband Prices:

• Advance purchase: $30
• During the fair: $40

A $2 RFID fee applies to unlimited ride wristbands and ride ticket cards. Additional online ticketing fees may apply.

Important: Unlimited ride wristbands are valid for one day only and do not include general fair admission.

Wristbands also do not cover the America 250 Wheel, State Fair Flyer, or Casey's Big Slide. Those attractions require separate tickets.

Additional Rides That Require Separate Tickets

America 250 Wheel

• Advance: $6
• During the fair: $7

State Fair Flyer

• Advance: $7 one-way or $10 round-trip
• During the fair: $8 one-way or $11 round-trip

Casey's Big Slide

• Advance: $6
• During the fair: $7

These attractions are not included with unlimited ride wristbands or regular carnival ride ticket cards.

Ticket Packages Worth Knowing About

The State Fair also offers advance ticket bundles that can save you money.

Dizzy Pass | $38 Advertised Advance Price

Includes one general admission ticket and one unlimited ride wristband.

Bright Lights and Buckles Package | $18 Advertised Advance Price

Includes one general admission ticket and one ticket to a High School Rodeo performance on October 16 or 17.

State Fair Flyer Package | $17 Advertised Advance Price

Includes one general admission ticket and one round-trip State Fair Flyer ticket.

Please Note: The State Fair's official pages have published different prices for the State Fair Flyer package. Its 2026 advance-sale announcement and ticket purchasing page advertise $17, while its discounts page lists $18. Confirm the current package price at checkout. Ticketing and other applicable fees may increase the total.

Advance ticket packages are subject to availability and applicable sale deadlines.

Best of Raleigh Tip: If you're planning to spend a full day riding the midway attractions, the Dizzy Pass is worth considering. Just remember that the America 250 Wheel, State Fair Flyer, and Casey's Big Slide still require separate tickets.

For current prices, available packages, and ticket purchases, visit the official 2026 NC State Fair ticket page.

Special Discount Days at the 2026 NC State Fair

Want to save even more? The fair has several themed days offering special experiences and admission opportunities.

Thursday, October 15: College Day

Students attending North Carolina colleges and universities can purchase admission for $8 at the gate by presenting a valid student ID.

This offer is available only on Thursday, October 15, and applies to eligible students.

Sunday, October 18: Sensory Day

From 9 AM to 1 PM, the fair will offer a more sensory-friendly experience.

During these hours, participating vendors and booths will operate without bright lights or loud music. Rides and games begin at 10 AM with reduced sensory stimulation.

A designated Bandwidth Chill Out Zone will also be available in the Graham Building from 9 AM to 5 PM.

Tuesday, October 20: Senior Citizens' Day

Guests ages 65 and older receive free fair admission.

The day also includes special morning activities, with a Senior Fun Fest beginning at 9 AM near Dorton Arena.

Wednesday, October 21: Military Appreciation Day

Military personnel, including veterans, receive free admission for themselves and up to three guests with valid identification.

The day also features a military parade beginning at 10 AM, along with special performances and programming honoring service members.

Thursday, October 22: Hunger Relief Day

Bring six nonperishable food items to the gate in exchange for free fair admission.

This is one of our favorite opportunities to enjoy a Raleigh tradition while supporting the community.

For complete eligibility requirements and event details, visit the official NC State Fair Special Admission Days page.

Where to Park at the NC State Fair

Parking is one of the biggest questions people have before heading to the fair, especially on busy weekends.

The good news? There are several options, including free parking and shuttle services.

Free Off-Site Parking & Shuttle: Bandwidth Dogwood Lot

One convenient option is the free off-site parking area near the intersection of Edwards Mill Road and Reedy Creek Road.

Parking Address: 4501 Reedy Creek Road, Raleigh, NC 27607

The lot is accessible from Reedy Creek Road and offers convenient access from Wade Avenue and I-40.

Free shuttles transport visitors to the Trinity Road area near Gate 8, with pickup available at the same location.

Best of Raleigh Tip: Arrive early, especially on weekends. Even when shuttle lines move quickly, parking areas can become busy as the day goes on.

Additional Free Parking: Cardinal Lot

Another free off-site parking option is the Cardinal Lot.

Parking Address: 5766 Chapel Hill Road, Raleigh, NC 27607

Located off Highway 54 near I-40 Exit 290, this lot offers free shuttle service to the Gate 7 area.

Important: The State Fair's published satellite parking information includes outdated operating dates. The Dogwood and Cardinal lot locations and shuttle routes are listed by the fair, but visitors should check the official transportation page for confirmed 2026 lot hours before heading out.

Carter-Finley Stadium & Lenovo Center

Free general parking is available in designated areas at the fairgrounds, Carter-Finley Stadium, and Lenovo Center, subject to availability and other scheduled events.

Important: Lenovo Center parking is reserved or paid parking on Wednesday, October 21. Parking availability may also change when other events are scheduled nearby.

GoRaleigh Express Shuttle

Want to skip parking near the fairgrounds?

GoRaleigh is offering an express shuttle from Dix Park's Sunflower Field Lot A on Hunt Drive to Gate 1.

2026 GoRaleigh Shuttle Details:

• Pickup: Dix Park, Sunflower Field Lot A on Hunt Drive
• Drop-off: Gate 1
• Service: Approximately every 30 minutes
• Round-trip fare: $5
• One-way fare: $4
• Seniors ages 65+ and passengers with disabilities: $2.50 round-trip
• Children 40 inches tall or shorter: Free

For more information, visit the official NC State Fair parking and transportation guide.

GoDurham Shuttle

Traveling from Durham? GoDurham is offering free express transportation from downtown Durham to the fairgrounds.

Pickup: Durham Station, 515 W. Pettigrew Street, Durham, NC

Drop-off: Gate 1

Service is scheduled to operate hourly from 8 AM until fair closing, with limited seating.

Check the 2026 GoDurham State Fair shuttle information for schedules and additional details.

NC By Train

Want to skip the traffic entirely?

NC By Train is offering special State Fair stops from October 15–25, with service directly to the fairgrounds near Gate 1.

When booking, select NSF (North Carolina State Fair) as your station.

Train tickets must be purchased separately, and departure schedules vary by day.

Visit NC By Train to explore routes, schedules, and ticket availability.

Before heading out, check the official NC State Fair transportation page for the latest parking locations, shuttle schedules, and travel updates.

Best of Raleigh's Insider Tips for Visiting the State Fair

A little planning can make a big difference when you're spending the day at the fair.

Here are some of our favorite ways to make the most of your visit.

1. Buy Tickets Before You Go

Advance admission and ride wristbands are less expensive than purchasing during the fair.

If you're visiting with a group, those savings can add up quickly.

2. Visit on a Weekday If Possible

Weekdays typically bring smaller crowds and shorter lines than Saturdays.

For the best experience, try arriving when the gates open.

3. Make a Food Bucket List

With 84 new foods this year, there's no way to try everything in one visit.

Pick your top five must-try items ahead of time and plan to share dishes with your group.

4. Bring Water & Snacks

Good news! The NC State Fair's published security policy permits visitors to bring outside food, drinks, and water bottles through security.

Bringing your own water and a few snacks can help you save money throughout the day.

The fair also recommends bringing a clear bag to help speed up security screening. Opaque bags are permitted but require additional inspection.

Important: The currently published policy is hosted on a page labeled 2025. No conflicting newer policy was identified during our review, but visitors should check for any updated 2026 entry requirements before packing.

Review the official NC State Fair bag and entry policy before your visit.

5. Take Advantage of Free Entertainment

You don't need to purchase a ride wristband to have a great time.

Between live music, agricultural exhibits, demonstrations, and entertainment, there are plenty of experiences included with fair admission.

6. Know Where to Take a Break

If the crowds and noise start to feel overwhelming, look for quieter areas around the fairgrounds.

The Flower and Garden area, Village of Yesteryear, Scott Building, and Education Building are good places to explore when you want a change of pace.

Visitors looking for a designated sensory-friendly space can also visit the Bandwidth Chill Out Zone in the Graham Building during its scheduled hours on Sensory Day.

7. Stay for the Fireworks

If you're planning an evening visit, stick around for the nightly fireworks scheduled for 9:45 PM.

It's a fun way to end a full day of fair food, rides, and entertainment.

Just remember that visitors must enter the fairgrounds before 9:45 PM.

Have more questions before your visit? Check out the NC State Fair's official visitor information for additional details about fairground policies and planning your day.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 NC State Fair

When does the 2026 NC State Fair start?

The North Carolina State Fair begins Thursday, October 15, 2026, and runs through Sunday, October 25, 2026.

Where is the NC State Fair located?

The fair takes place at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds, 4285 Trinity Road, Raleigh, NC 27607.

How much are NC State Fair tickets in 2026?

Adult tickets cost $10 in advance or $13 at the gate. Youth tickets for ages 6–12 cost $5 in advance or $7 at the gate. Children ages 5 and under receive free admission. Online ticketing fees may apply.

How much are unlimited ride wristbands at the 2026 NC State Fair?

Unlimited ride wristbands cost $30 in advance or $40 during the fair, plus applicable fees. They are valid for one day and do not include general fair admission or certain specialty attractions.

Is the America 250 Wheel included with a ride wristband?

No. The America 250 Wheel requires a separate ticket, priced at $6 in advance or $7 during the fair.

Is parking free at the NC State Fair?

Yes! Free parking is available in designated areas, including off-site lots with complimentary shuttle service. Some parking locations may have restrictions or fees on specific dates. Check the official transportation page for current hours and availability.

What are the new foods at the 2026 NC State Fair?

The fair is introducing 84 new food items, including banana pudding flights, birria egg rolls, pickle cheesecake, cookie butter cheesecake donuts, and several new dirty soda creations.

What is the best day to visit the NC State Fair?

Weekdays are generally your best option if you want to avoid the largest crowds. Arriving early can also help reduce time spent waiting in lines.

Can you bring food and water into the NC State Fair?

The fair's published security policy permits outside food, drinks, and water bottles. Check the official entry policy before visiting for any updates.

Are there free activities at the NC State Fair?

Yes! Live music, agricultural demonstrations, animal exhibits, stunt performances, and nightly fireworks are among the entertainment options included with admission.

Make the Most of the 2026 NC State Fair

There's a reason the North Carolina State Fair is one of Raleigh's most anticipated fall traditions.

Whether you're coming for the newest food creations, taking the kids to experience the midway, enjoying local music, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, there's something special about spending a day at the fair.

Our advice? Come hungry, wear comfortable shoes, bring your favorite people, and leave plenty of room for a little spontaneity.

The 2026 NC State Fair runs October 15–25, and we can't wait to see what everyone tries first!

For official tickets, schedules, and additional visitor information, visit NCStateFair.org.

Looking for more ways to celebrate fall in Raleigh? Explore our guide to the best pumpkin patches near Raleigh, discover our October 2026 top picks, and stay connected with The Best of Raleigh for everything happening around the City of Oaks.