Press Releases
After a monthlong break for the N.C. State Fair, the Raleigh Market will re-open Saturday, Nov. 7. The market is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays except during October, when the annual State Fair is held.The Raleigh Market is one of the largest flea markets in the Southeast, offering everything from antiques to handicrafts, furniture and homemade goods. Parking is free. For more information about the market, go to www.theraleighmarket.com.
The N.C. State Fair Junior Livestock Sale of Champions raised a record $234,000 in bids for the top steers, barrows, lambs, goats and turkeys in the sale on Oct. 25.“The Sale of Champions not only gives us an opportunity to recognize the winners in the N.C. State Fair junior livestock shows, but a portion of every winning bid also goes to scholarships available to all junior livestock show participants,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “Congratulations to all those livestock participants and winners, and thanks to all the bidders who make the sale possible.”
WHO/ WHAT: After more than three decades of research, the world’s only certified Fraser fir seeds are ready to be sold, and N.C. Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler will present the first pound of those seeds to the first buyer – an Ashe County Christmas tree farm.
Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler inducted four new members into the N.C. State Fair Livestock Hall of Fame Sunday, Oct. 25, at the State Fairgrounds in Raleigh.“Agriculture always has been and will always remain the heart of the N.C. State Fair,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “Our livestock shows are some of the finest in the nation, and this hall of fame serves to honor the people who have shaped them. Their hard work, leadership and passion have helped build these events and keep them coming back each year.”
RALEIGH – The N.C. State Fair wrapped up 11 fun-filled days with mostly sunny skies, strong attendance, and a record Junior Livestock Sale of Champions. Total attendance was 910, 584.
WHO/WHAT:The N.C. State Fair mock tobacco auction, featuring retired auctioneers and tobacco company buyers recreating a typical tobacco auction. Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler will also be on hand. WHEN/WHERE: Friday, Oct. 23, 2 p.m. in Tobacco Pavilion in Heritage Circle BACKGROUND INFORMATION:EDITORS – Please note this is a highly visual event that makes for great video, audio and engaging photos.
WHO/WHAT: The N.C. Gasoline and Oil Board will meet virtually to consider readopting the rules in Title 02 of the North Carolina Administrative Code Chapter 42.WHEN/WHERE: Friday, Oct. 23, 9 a.m. Interested parties can join by phone by dialing 984-204-1487 and using the phone conference ID number 441 561 311#.
WHO/WHAT: The N.C. State Fair is proud to hold Duke Energy Military Appreciation Day to celebrate and pay special tribute to all active and former military service and guard members on Wednesday, Oct. 21. With proof of identification, military personnel plus up to three guests will receive free entry into the fair on this day. WHEN/WHERE: Wednesday, Oct. 21N.C. State Fairgrounds, Raleigh
The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Standards Division collected fines from 19 stores in 14 counties for price scanning errors during the third quarter of 2026. “Accurate pricing is essential to maintaining the public’s trust and a fair marketplace, and our inspectors play an important role in protecting consumers,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “While we work diligently to ensure retailers are in compliance, we also encourage shoppers to take time to review their receipts and let us know if they find errors.”
The judges have spoken, and the best of the ham has been crowned. After a 27-year absence, the N.C. State Fair Country Ham Competition returned Thursday, Oct. 15, celebrating the salt, smoke and craftsmanship behind one of North Carolina’s most beloved food traditions.Presented by North Carolina Farm Bureau, the competition recognized country ham producers and enthusiasts whose entries reflect the patience, skill and knowledge passed down through generations.