It’s once again that favorite time of year in the Triangle, when visitors from across the state of North Carolina descend on Raleigh to celebrate the sights, sounds, and flavors of the State Fair. The 2025 North Carolina State Fair kicks off Thursday, Oct. 16 and runs through Sunday, Oct. 26. And just like previous years, it’s expected to create fun, new memories for those who visit.
There’s something for everyone at this fall favorite — from deep-fried treats and daring rides to friendly farm animals and local charm. Here’s what to keep in mind so you can soak up every moment of the fun.
Classic fair favorites and new thrills for 2025
The 2025 North Carolina State Fair is bringing back all the classics you know and love, plus a few new thrills to keep things exciting. Step onto the Carnival Midway, where rides for every age promise laughter and adrenaline in equal measure. Take a spin on one of the Giant Ferris Wheels for a breathtaking nighttime view of the Raleigh skyline or test your courage on the Cliff Hanger and Zero Gravity rides. This year also debuts three new attractions guaranteed to turn your world upside down: Flip Side, Kamikaze, and Colossus.
In the State Fair Ark, North Carolina’s top livestock take center stage, from grand and reserve champions in the junior market steer, lamb, goat, turkey, and barrow shows to more than 60 different farm animals. Visitors can try their hand at milking a cow, explore the Field of Dreams for a hands-on farm-to-table experience, or catch one of the daily livestock shows throughout the fair.
There’s more to explore beyond the barns and rides, too. Browse local North Carolina-made goods, wander through the Flower and Garden Show, or enjoy live performances from homegrown musicians. And if you crave something louder, the monster trucks and demolition derbies at the Grandstand deliver nonstop action. No matter your age or interests, the State Fair has something to make this fall unforgettable.
Sweet and savory, plus Dubai chocolate everywhere
Wild food creations are a common theme at state fairs across the country, and that’s definitely the case in North Carolina this year. This year sees the return of last year’s top hot flavor: pickles. This year, you can try Flaming Hot Cheetos pickle pizza, freeze-dried spicy pickle, deep-fried Nashville hot pickles, pickle fries, pickle juice popsicles, pickle soup, pickle flavored cheese curd tacos, and even a pickle sub where — you may have guessed it — the bun is a pickle.
If you haven’t yet jumped on the Dubai chocolate trend, now’s your chance. The 2025 North Carolina State Fair vendors have stepped it up this year with this new confection, including the viral TikTok sensation in several different applications. None of the uses for this chocolate are straightforward chocolate bars, either; you can sample Dubai chocolate on donuts, churros, parfaits, and even mini pancakes.
Unique treats that bring in both sweet and savory are all over the menu this year. Chocolate covered potato chip caramel apples combine tart, sweet, and salty while the maple bacon and Fruity Pebbles Korean corn dog gives a sweet, crunch, savory tang. Get indulgent with a deep-fried bacon turtle cheesecake or a full mozzarella dog topped with salted butter, cinnamon sugar, and Cinnamon Toast Crunch. And if you can handle the heat, check out a hot honey jalapeño popper donut.
If you want straight-up teeth-melting sweet, you can also find Poprock candy grapes, a Cheerwine slush, cotton candy iced tea, or a boozie cupcake shake. And if you’re looking for convenience in how you eat your favorite fair foods, grab a bacon mac and cheese cone, a loaded popcorn chicken sundae, or flauta dippers. Or, for North Carolina-specific tastes, check out pimento cheese and pork BBQ balls or barbecued chicken feet, then wash it down with a Dirty Cheerwine.
With 86 new foods this year, there’s always something to sample. Pack your appetite and your sense of adventure, because these one-of-a-kind eats are what make the fair unforgettable.
Step back in time at Heritage Circle
If you haven’t visited Heritage Circle, make it a priority during the 2025 North Carolina State Fair. This beloved exhibit brings North Carolina’s agricultural roots to life, offering a glimpse into the state’s rich farming history. Start your visit at the Cider House, where fifth-generation apple farmers from Hendersonville share the age-old art of cider pressing. Sip a cup of freshly pressed, warm apple cider and take in the sweet aromas before continuing your journey through the past.
Across Heritage Circle, you’ll find live demonstrations of tobacco curing, blacksmithing, and grist milling. These hands-on showcases exhibit the craftsmanship and hard work that defined early North Carolina farm life. Visitors can also enjoy bluegrass music, clogging and square dancing, and even attend a traditional church service for a true taste of local heritage. Still around and end each night with a fireworks show at 9:45 p.m. at Heritage Circle.
The N.C. Stillhouse also returns this year, spotlighting the state’s booming craft distillery scene. Each day of the fair, a different North Carolina distillery will take the stage, serving up specialty cocktails and sharing their unique stories. Don’t miss the Home Chef Challenge, sponsored by the Distillers Association of North Carolina, where whiskey takes center stage as the featured ingredient. Check the daily schedule to see which distilleries will be featured during your visit.
Dates, time, and location
The 2025 North Carolina State Fair will be held at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds, located at 1025 Blue Ridge Rd. in Raleigh. If you’re planning to drive, be sure to arrive early for the best parking options. Or skip the stress altogether by using public transportation. For parking maps, directions, and transit details, visit the official State Fair website.
On Thursday, Oct. 16, the fairgrounds will open at noon and close at 11 p.m. The fair hours are Oct. 17-18 from 9 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.; Oct. 19-23 from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Oct. 24-25 from 9 a.m. to 11:30 p.m., and Oct. 26 from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Entry ends at 9:45 p.m. each evening.
Special deals and discounts are available for veterans, students, senior citizens, and more. Check the website for details on how to save.
Plan ahead for maximum fun
Make the most of your visit to this year’s State Fair by planning ahead. With endless food, entertainment, and memory-making moments, the day will fly by before you know it. Bring cash, stay hydrated, wear comfortable shoes. Then, get ready to experience all the excitement of the 2025 North Carolina State Fair.
