September 25 – October 5, 2025

WAYNE COUNTY, N.C. — The Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair is set to return for its 77th year, promising 10 days of entertainment, competitions, and family-friendly activities from September 25 through October 5, 2025. The fair, owned and operated by the Wayne County Livestock Development Association (WCLDA), continues its tradition as one of North Carolina’s premier agricultural celebrations.

New Attractions and Entertainment Lineup

This year’s fair features an exciting mix of returning favorites and fresh entertainment options. The Ninja Experience returns to the center stage after a successful run several years ago, now with a revamped show format. Under the pavilion, different entertainers will perform nightly, creating a central gathering place for families to enjoy food and live performances.

Two unique strolling acts will move throughout the fairgrounds: a traveling piano performer who takes requests and plays a variety of musical selections, and Dangerous Feats of Comedy, featuring escape artists and balancing acts in the style of Houdini.

Powers Great American Midways, a North Carolina-based company from Whiteville, returns with 48 spectacular rides ranging from gentle kiddie attractions to thrilling adult rides. The midway also features games and carnival food options.

Special Deals and Admission Information

General admission is $10 for ages 7 and up, with children 6 and under admitted free. Several special promotions are available:

• Opening Night Special: Thursday, September 25 – Southern Bank Car Load Special allows six people admission plus wristbands for $90 (a $180 value)
• School Nights: Monday and Tuesday offer free admission for grades K-12 with school tickets, plus $3 off ride wristbands
• Military Appreciation Day: Thursday, October 2 – $5 admission and $10 off ride wristbands with military ID
• Senior Day: Tuesday, October 1 – Free admission for visitors 60 and older

Advance tickets are available online at waynefair.com or at an on-site kiosk.

Facility Improvements and Infrastructure

The fairgrounds have undergone significant improvements this year. A new, larger restroom facility has replaced the old central restroom, featuring family facilities and worker showers. The project was completed by Daniels & Daniels Construction Company with financing assistance from Southern Bank.

The livestock arena received major upgrades, expanding to 96 feet wide by 100 feet deep with a new concrete floor, lean-to shelters, and ceiling fans for improved ventilation.

Competitions and Contests

The fair hosts numerous competitions across multiple categories:

Youth Contests

• LEGO Building Contest (ages 5-18, with Best of Show prizes)
• “On the Spot” LEGO Contest (Monday, September 29, 6:00 PM)
• Fair Craft Contest themed around the Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair
• Talent contests by grade level
• Cheerleading competition (Wednesday, October 1, 5:00 PM)

Agricultural Competitions

• Livestock shows throughout the week
• Livestock Skillathon Contest (Tuesday, September 30, 4:30 PM)
• Horticulture and crop competitions
• Flower shows

Special Events

• Queen of the Fair Contest (Thursday, September 25, 7:00 PM)
• Demolition Derby (Saturday, October 4, 12:00 PM)
• Pie Baking Contest
• Various educational competitions

Educational and Community Impact

The Wayne County Livestock Development Association, established in 1948, uses fair proceeds to award scholarships to Wayne County high school seniors pursuing agriculture-related careers. The organization also provides Animal Science Education Grants to area high schools and supports various community initiatives including Wayne County Relay for Life.

The fair showcases extensive partnerships with Wayne County Cooperative Extension Service and Wayne County Public Schools, featuring educational booths and career and technical education displays from local high school departments.

Daily Schedule Highlights

The fair operates with varying hours throughout its 10-day run:

• Weekdays: 4:00 PM – 10:30 PM
• Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
• Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM

Special programming includes kindergarten and preschool visits Monday through Friday mornings, and various contest finals throughout the week.

Community Partnership and Safety

Fair organizers work closely with the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department and Highway Patrol to ensure visitor safety and manage traffic flow. An emergency response plan addresses weather-related concerns and other potential safety issues.

The fair features numerous community food booths operated by local churches and organizations, with proceeds supporting community programs.

Looking Ahead

Under the leadership of General Manager Eddie Pitzer, the fair continues to evolve based on a 10-year master plan developed by an architectural firm. Recent improvements represent the first phase of planned enhancements to serve the community better year-round.

The Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair is located at 2801 US 117 S, Dudley, NC 28333. For more information, contact the fair office at 919-735-7277, visit waynefair.com, or follow #waynefairnc on social media.

Exhibit registration begins Saturday, September 20, with various categories accepting entries through September 25. All exhibits must be removed by October 5-6, with premium checks distributed during pickup times.

For more information on the daily schedule, tickets, wrist bands, and entertainment, visit: