RALEIGH, NC — The North Carolina State Fair will honor military service members and their families on Wednesday, Oct. 21, hosting Duke Energy Military Appreciation Day at the state fairgrounds in Raleigh.
The annual tradition offers free gate admission to all active-duty military personnel, veterans, and members of the National Guard and Reserves who present valid military identification. Qualified service members may also bring up to three guests for free.
“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.”
Parade and Special Events
A commemorative military parade highlighting service history through the years will kick off at 10 a.m. Starting along the main carnival midway, the procession will route through Kiddieland, pass the Scott Building, and wrap back through the midway.
The parade will feature local marching bands from Athens Drive High School and Warren County High School, alongside ceremonial units including the Montgomery Central High School Air Force JROTC, the Northern Vance High School JROTC, and the Northern Vance High School Honor Guard.
Waterfall Stage Entertainment Schedule
Following the parade, special programming and live performances will take place on the Waterfall Stage near Dorton Arena:
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10:45 a.m. – Official Military Appreciation Day Program
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11:15 a.m. – Live Performance by the 440th Army Band
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1:15 p.m. – Live Performance by the 440th Army Band
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2:30 p.m. – N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Military Uniform Revue
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4:00 p.m. – Live Performance by the 440th Army Band
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6:00 p.m. – Live Performance by the 440th Army Band
Admission and Identification Details
To claim free entry on Military Appreciation Day, service members and veterans must present accepted military identification at the gate. Eligible credentials include:
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Valid Uniformed Services ID
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Common Access Card (CAC)
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North Carolina Driver’s License with Veteran Designation
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Veteran Affairs Health Identification Card
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Photocopy of valid Form DD-214 or Form NGB-22
On all other fair days during the 11-day event, active-duty service members, reservists, National Guard personnel, and veterans can purchase discounted admission for $8 at the gate. Fair gates open at 9 a.m. daily.
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