The lights of the midway, the smell of favorite fair foods and the excitement of discovering something new are bringing families together at the 2026 North Carolina State Fair, which runs October 15–25 at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds in Raleigh. For families in Hoke County and surrounding communities, the fair offers an opportunity to enjoy a fall outing while exploring the agriculture, creativity and traditions that make North Carolina special. With rides, animals, competitions, vendors and entertainment, visitors can build a day around their interests and budget. NC Agriculture
Whether your family enjoys watching livestock shows, exploring exhibits or searching for a favorite fair treat, there is still time to experience this year’s celebration before it closes on Sunday, October 25.
What Families Can See and Do
Agriculture remains at the heart of the North Carolina State Fair, where livestock shows and agricultural displays give visitors a closer look at the people and animals connected to the state’s farming communities. The 2026 schedule includes cattle, sheep and dairy goat shows, along with horse events, cooking competitions and demonstrations that offer plenty to explore beyond the midway. Giant pumpkins and exhibits celebrating North Carolina products add to the experience for children and adults alike. ncagr.gov
Families can also visit the Got to Be NC Pavilion inside Dorton Arena, where North Carolina farmers, food makers and entrepreneurs share products grown, raised, caught and made in the state. Visitors can sample and shop while learning about the businesses behind those products, making the pavilion a worthwhile stop for anyone who enjoys discovering local flavors. NC State Fair Deep Fried Blog
Children who enjoy a challenge can participate in the fair’s 2026 scavenger hunts, with separate editions for elementary, middle and high school students. Additional activities include Deep Fried Bingo, a State Fair Selfie Challenge and Got to Be NC Bingo, giving families ways to turn their visit into an interactive learning adventure. NC Agriculture
Admission Prices and Family Budgeting
Knowing admission costs before leaving home can help families decide how much to set aside for food, rides and shopping. The fair’s published regular admission prices are:
| Admission category | Regular price |
|---|---|
| Adults ages 13–64 | $13 |
| Youth ages 6–12 | $7 |
| Children ages 5 and younger | Free |
| Seniors ages 65 and older | $5 |
| Eligible military adults ages 13–64 | $8 at the gate |
Admission prices include applicable state and local sales tax, while online admission purchases carry a 10.725% ticketing fee. Discounted advance admission sales ended October 15. At regular gate prices, a family with two adults and two children ages 6–12 would spend $40 on admission, before rides, food or other purchases. NC Agriculture
The military discount is especially helpful for eligible families in the Hoke County and Fort Bragg area. Active-duty service members, reservists, retirees, National Guardsmen and eligible dependents ages 13–64 qualify for the $8 gate price with accepted identification. Veterans receive the same discount for themselves and one guest or dependent. NC Agriculture
Rides and Other Costs to Consider
Families planning to spend time on the midway should budget separately for rides. Published 2026 guides list the regular unlimited ride wristband at $40, and the fair’s official ticket page specifies an additional $2 fee for each unlimited ride wristband or ride ticket card. Wristbands are valid for one day, and fair admission must be purchased separately. Certain specialty attractions, including the State Fair Flyer, are excluded from the standard unlimited ride wristband, so check current pricing before purchasing. thisisraleigh.com
For younger children, reviewing ride requirements before purchasing a wristband can help parents determine whether unlimited rides provide good value. Families can also set a separate spending limit for games, snacks and souvenirs so everyone knows what to expect.
Food is another part of the fair experience worth planning around, particularly when several family members want to try different items. Choosing a few treats to share can make room in the budget for more variety, while asking vendors about ingredients is helpful for anyone managing food allergies or dietary needs.
A Special Opportunity to Give Back
Thursday, October 22, is Smithfield Foods Hunger Relief Day, when each visitor can bring six nonperishable food items to exchange for free fair admission. For families attending that day, the promotion provides an opportunity to save on admission while supporting the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina and its partners. The donation covers admission; rides and food purchases remain separate. NC Agriculture
Hours, Parking and Evening Entertainment
For the remaining dates, gates open at 9 a.m. and close at 11 p.m. on October 22 and October 25, with later closing at 11:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, October 23–24. Visitors must purchase admission and enter before 9:45 p.m., and there is no re-entry after that time. Building and attraction hours vary, so families should review the daily schedule when planning their visit. Hours of Operation
The fairgrounds’ physical address is 4285 Trinity Road, Raleigh, NC 27607. Free parking is available in designated State Fair and stadium areas, and the fair lists additional parking and transportation options on its official website. Families should follow posted signs and distinguish official parking from privately operated lots, which may charge their own fees. NC Agriculture
For visitors staying into the evening, fireworks are scheduled nightly at 9:45 p.m. over Heritage Circle Pond, weather permitting, providing a memorable finish to a day at the fair. ncagr.gov
Helpful Information for Parents
Families with small children can plan breaks around the fair’s available facilities. The official schedule identifies Mothers’ Rooms in the Gov. Scott Building, Gov. Martin Building, Agri Supply Expo Center and Food Hall, along with family restrooms in several locations. Stroller and wagon rental vendors are also listed near multiple gates. If family members become separated, the Reconnection Center is in the Agri Supply Expo Center lobby, which also houses Lost & Found. ncagr.gov
Before entering, take a current photo of children, establish a meeting place and make sure younger visitors have a parent’s phone number available. Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing and planned rest breaks can help everyone enjoy the day.
We Are Hoke encourages families to explore the fair at their own pace, leaving time for the exhibits, activities and discoveries that interest them most. Visit ncstatefair.org for tickets, daily schedules, accessibility information and updates before traveling.
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