Staff Writer
“The State Fair is a place to be with friends and family, and to have a good time making memories that will last forever,” said Lesley Chao, a freshman at Apex High School. The State Fair is coming to Raleigh from October 11-21, and will feature thrilling rides, great food, amazing competitions, and concerts and events filled with fun.
The rides at the State Fair are provided by Powers Great American Midways. Some of them include the Zipper, the Wave Swinger, and the Gondola Giant Wheel. The rides provide great thrills, fun for the whole family, and a spectacular view of the State Fair. Rides generally cost around $3-6 each, so be sure to bring plenty of cash to purchase tickets. If you plan on riding all the rides and want to save money, fans should go to the fair on October 11, Preview Day, to purchase a ride voucher for $28 that can be used from 3:30 p.m. until midnight.
Another huge attraction at the State Fair is the food. Funnel cake and frozen chocolate bananas are among the most popular foods. “I love the funnel cake at the fair,” said Monica Simpson, sophomore. Other foods sold at the fair include elephant ears, popcorn, cotton candy, turkey legs, and pretty much anything that can be deep fried.
There will be many concerts held at the Dorton Arena with a variety of performers. Among them are Matthew West with Sanctus Real, Jake Owen, Hot Chelle Rae, Jason Michael Carroll, Brian McKnight, Michael W. Smith, Billy Currington, Corey Smith, and Scotty McCreery. Tickets can be bought online in advance for any of these artists, except for McCreery, who has already sold out both nights.
Competitions and other displays will also be at the fair. There will be a display of antique farm machinery, and a flower and garden show. There will also be several horse shows, a livestock competition, and special cooking contests.
Whether you are going for the food, fun, music, or competitions, the State Fair is a great place to be. It’s easy to have an amazing time there, as well as create many memories that will last a lifetime.
