Discounted advance tickets for the 2025 N.C. State Fair are now available for purchase online through October 16. The fair is scheduled to take place from October 16 to 26 at the State Fairgrounds in Raleigh. Tickets can also be bought daily at the Dorton Arena kiosk, and walk-up ticket sales will be offered from October 3 through 16 at Gate 9 on the fairgrounds.
“The fair is a great place to make cherished memories with your family and friends,” said Kent Yelverton, N.C. State Fair director. “These prices are the best ticket offers you’ll see this fair season, so be sure to buy your advance tickets today.”
Advance ticket pricing includes $10 for adults ages 13-64, $5 for youth ages 6-12 and senior adults, while children five and under can enter free of charge. Group rates are available for parties of forty or more, with adult tickets priced at $8 and youth tickets at $4.
Additional advance purchases include ride ticket cards ($11 for eighteen ride tickets), unlimited ride wristbands ($31 each), State Fair Flyer rides ($6 one-way or $9 round-trip), and access to the State Fair SkyGazer ($6). These items do not include admission to the fair itself. Ride wristbands are valid for one day only during the event; they cannot be used on either the State Fair Flyer or SkyGazer attractions.
Special themed packages sold exclusively online feature new options this year:
– Bright Lights and Boots Package: One gate admission plus a ticket to an NCHSRA Rodeo Event on October 20 or 21 for $18.
– Dizzy Pass: One gate admission and an unlimited ride wristband for $39.
– Kegs & Cork Pass: One gate admission plus a beer or wine ticket at the N.C. Public House for $18.
– Sippin’ Spirits Package: One gate admission plus a Still House Cocktail ticket for $23.
– State Fair Flyer Package: Two admissions plus two round-trip Flyer tickets for $34.
– State Fair SkyGazer Package: One admission plus one SkyGazer ticket for $14.
All online prices now reflect taxes and fees in their total cost. More details about purchasing options can be found under “Important Information for Carnival Ticketing” on the official State Fair website.
The event features free entertainment, rides, games, animal exhibits, competitions, vendors, family activities, and food unique to North Carolina.
