October marks the start of one of the highlights of fall here in North Carolina. Every year Apex High School students look forward to the North Carolina State Fair. The fair is an amazing place to hang out with friends and family and make lots of new memories. From its amazing food to thrilling rides the State Fair always brings joy to all visitors. This event is one of the largest fairs in the United States and draws hundreds of thousands of visitors from all over North Carolina. Whether you are participating in the fair like some students at Apex, or not, the State Fair is an exciting experience to remember.

The North Carolina State Fair was created in 1853 to show the state’s agricultural harvest and promote agricultural education. Over the years, it has evolved into an event celebrating farming, livestock, arts, crafts, and local traditions. 

The fair lasts 11 days in October and features a wide variety of attractions. Visitors can explore many exhibit halls with everything from prize-winning livestock to handmade crafts. Competitions feature everything from baking and canning to visual arts, with participants battling for ribbons. Local students from Apex High School also get in on the action. Lauren McGinnis earned third place in the youth baking competition with her gluten-free German chocolate cake, while Alex Goldberg, Savannah Chesney, and Logan Tremelling showed turkeys at the Youth Market Turkey Show. Alex and Logan both placed 6th in their flights, while Savannah took 8th.

One of the highlights is the Midway, where you can enjoy all sorts of rides and games. Some students prefer slower more scenic rides. Georgia Kate Ingram and Rylee  Barbour both enjoy the slower rides such as the skyline and Ferris wheel that offer a beautiful view of the fair. Others prefer more exhilarating rides like Cliffhanger, Cyclops, and Mega Drop. From Ferris wheels to roller coasters, the State Fair offers a fun time for visitors of all ages. 

You can’t go to the North Carolina State Fair without trying some delicious food. The fair is famous for its snacks, the fair offers treats like classic corn dogs, funnel cakes, and crazy treats like fried Oreos and pickle-flavored snacks. Funnel cake is a favorite among Apex High School students. Elle Stone and Aayushi Bajracharya said funnel cake was their favorite food at the fair.

Overall, the North Carolina State Fair is a tradition that highlights our agriculture and community. Whether you’re there for the rides, food, exhibits, or to support Apex High School students. The fair is an unforgettable experience filled with great memories.