RALEIGH, N.C. — The countdown is on for one of North Carolina’s biggest fall traditions! The 2026 N.C. State Fair opens Thursday, October 15, bringing 11 days of thrilling rides, delicious fair food, live entertainment, agricultural exhibits, and special opportunities for visitors to save on admission.
The fair, which runs through Sunday, October 25, at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds in Raleigh, will continue its popular tradition of offering themed days designed to recognize students, senior citizens, military members, and community organizations while making the fair more accessible to everyone.
Five of the fair’s 11 days will feature special programs, events, and discounted or free admission.
“Our special days fit perfectly into this year’s theme,” said Fair Manager Kent Yelverton. “These days have become part of people’s fair memories for many years, and with five of our 11 days offering special opportunities, fairgoers are sure to have more stories to tell about the experiences that made their fair visit unique.”
College Day — Thursday, October 15
The fair kicks off with College Day, offering North Carolina college and university students discounted admission.
Students who present a valid college or university student ID at the gate can purchase admission for just $8.
Sensory Day — Sunday, October 18
Presented by Bandwidth, Sensory Day provides a calmer and more inclusive fair experience for visitors who may be sensitive to loud noises, flashing lights, and other sensory stimulation.
From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., the fair’s competition areas, exhibits, food vendors, and other attractions will operate without flashing lights or music.
Additional accommodations will be available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., including the Bandwidth Chill Out Zone and noise-cancelling headphones.
“We’re proud to once again sponsor Sensory Day and help make the fair a welcoming place for everyone,” said David Morken, Bandwidth’s co-founder and CEO. “This day reflects our mission to connect people and the spirit of service our Bandmates bring to the community.”
Senior Citizens’ Day — Tuesday, October 20
Fairgoers ages 65 and older will receive free admission during Senior Citizens’ Day.
The celebration begins at 9 a.m. with the Senior Fun Fest on the Dorton Patio near the Waterfall.
While supplies last, visitors can enjoy complimentary Bojangles’ biscuits and coffee.
A special program begins at 10 a.m. featuring live music from Jim Quick & Coastline, along with remarks from North Carolina Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler.
On all other fair days, seniors ages 65 and older can purchase discounted admission for $5.
Duke Energy Military Appreciation Day — Wednesday, October 21
The N.C. State Fair will honor the men and women who have served and continue to serve in the United States military.
Active-duty military members, veterans, and National Guard personnel will receive free admission for themselves and up to three guests with proper identification.
A military appreciation parade begins at 10 a.m., traveling through the main carnival midway, Kiddieland, past the Scott Building, and returning through the midway.
“North Carolina is home to one of the nation’s strongest and most vibrant military communities,” said Kendal Bowman, Duke Energy’s North Carolina president. “From active-duty service members to veterans and military families, their contributions strengthen our state in countless ways.”
On other fair days, active-duty service members, reservists, National Guardsmen, retirees, and qualifying dependents ages 13 to 64 can receive admission for $8 at the gate.
Veterans may also receive the discounted admission price for themselves and purchase one additional discounted ticket for a guest or dependent.
Smithfield Foods Hunger Relief Day — Thursday, October 22
One of the fair’s most meaningful traditions returns with Smithfield Foods Hunger Relief Day.
Fairgoers who bring six nonperishable food items to any fair entrance will receive free admission.
Accepted donations include canned goods, peanut butter, boxes of protein bars, and other nonperishable foods.
Hunger Relief Day began in 1993 and has grown into one of North Carolina’s largest single-day food drives.
Since its beginning, fairgoers have donated more than 6.8 million pounds of food to the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina and its partner organizations.
“Smithfield Foods Hunger Relief Day represents so much of what makes North Carolina special by bringing together a strong agricultural community and neighbors who step up for one another,” said Kraig Westerbeek, president of hog production for Smithfield Foods.
This marks Smithfield Foods’ sixth year partnering with the N.C. State Fair to support the annual food drive.
More Than Just Rides and Fair Food
Beyond the special admission days, the N.C. State Fair will feature the attractions that have made it a beloved annual tradition for generations.
Visitors can enjoy carnival rides and games, thousands of animals, agricultural competitions, educational exhibits, free entertainment, shopping opportunities, and plenty of creative fair food favorites.
The fair also provides an opportunity to celebrate North Carolina’s agricultural heritage while showcasing the talents and achievements of residents from across the state.
Plan Your Visit
The 2026 N.C. State Fair runs October 15-25 at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds in Raleigh.
Visitors are encouraged to review the schedule of special event days before attending to take advantage of available discounts, free admission opportunities, and special activities.
Additional information about admission, parking, accessibility, special events, and Hunger Relief Day donations is available at www.ncstatefair.org.
Fairgoers can also follow the N.C. State Fair on Facebook, X, and Instagram at @ncstatefair for updates throughout the event.
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