RALEIGH — The North Carolina State Fair has unveiled its lineup of special themed days for 2026, offering visitors unique events, inclusive programs, and opportunities for free or discounted admission.
The annual tradition runs from October 15 through October 25 at the N.C. State Fairgrounds in Raleigh, with five of the 11 days featuring targeted promotions.
“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.”
The special event schedule includes:
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Thursday, Oct. 15 (College Day): Students attending North Carolina colleges and universities can purchase gate admission for $8 by presenting a valid student ID.
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Sunday, Oct. 18 (Sensory Day presented by Bandwidth): Designed for visitors seeking a calmer atmosphere, this event features an inclusive competition area, exhibits, and vendors operating without flashing lights or loud music from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Additional accommodations from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. include the Bandwidth Chill Out Zone and available noise-canceling headphones.
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Tuesday, Oct. 20 (Senior Citizens’ Day): Seniors ages 65 and older receive free gate admission. The Senior Fun Fest kicks off at 9 a.m. on the Dorton Patio with complimentary Bojangles’ biscuits and coffee while supplies last, followed by a 10 a.m. program featuring musical performance by Jim Quick & Coastline and comments from N.C. Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. Discounted $5 admission is available for seniors on all other fair dates.
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Wednesday, Oct. 21 (Duke Energy Military Appreciation Day): Active-duty military members, veterans, and National Guard personnel, along with up to three guests, receive free admission with valid military identification. A military parade will march through the fairgrounds starting at 10 a.m. on the main carnival midway. Active-duty personnel, retirees, reservists, veterans, and their dependents can also access discounted $8 admission on all other fair days.
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Thursday, Oct. 22 (Smithfield Foods Hunger Relief Day): Fairgoers can earn free admission by donating six nonperishable food items—such as canned goods, peanut butter, or box protein bars—at any fairground gate. All donations benefit the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina and its community partners. Since the drive was established in 1993, fairgoers have contributed more than 6.8 million pounds of food.
For complete event details, parking maps, accessibility guidelines, or food drive donation lists, fairgoers can visit ncstatefair.org.
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