RALEIGH, N.C. — The largest event in North Carolina returns on October 14, bringing in around a million people to hop on rides, see local vendors and dig into delicious fair food. 

What You Need To Know

  • Save up to 40% on admission, ride sheets and wrist bands before or on October 14

  • You can get a lunch pass on weekdays from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. There are also free food samples inside Dorton Arena

  • Bring six canned goods on October 21 and receive free admission

  • Here’s a link for 100 free things to do

Spectrum News 1 compiled some tips and deals for saving money both before and during the fair. 

You can save up to 40% by ordering your admission tickets, ride sheets or wrist bands on or before Thursday, when the fair opens. You can order tickets online, on the grounds at Gate #9, at Circle K stores, at the N.C. Museum of History and at the State Farmers Market.

With over 180 food vendors, food is a big reason people visit the fair each year. For those looking for lunch, you can get a lunch pass. If you go to Gates 9 or 1 on weekdays from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., you can pay $10 cash for the pass. If you leave the fairgrounds by 1:30 p.m., they will give you your money back. 

One way to capitalize on the lunch pass is by enjoying free samples from local vendors inside J.S. Dorton Arena. 

While checking out all the sites, you’re bound to run into the lineup of entertainment. There will be a carillon of bells, real-life lumberjacks, racing pigs and various daily acts on the Waterfall Stage, Bluegrass Stage and Heritage Circle Church Stage. 

For more discounted fair fun, check out this link for 100 Free Things to Do.