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.”
Press Releases
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 Benson Nites team returned to the winner’s circle in the N.C. State Fair’s Tobacco Stringing Contest Friday, Oct. 17. The team, made up of Nancy Stewart, Susie Allen and Debbie Barbour, all of Benson, posted the fastest time and the highest points in the judging of the stick of tobacco.Stewart looped the stick of tobacco in 1:03.47 and earned 68 out of 70 points for quality. The Benson Nites took home $250 in prize money.
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.
Annual N.C. State Fair tobacco looping/tying contest to be held Friday at 2 p.m. in Heritage Circle WHO/WHAT:
The pumpkins and the watermelons had their BIG day at the fair in Tuesday’s giant pumpkin and watermelon competition. The winning entries will be on display in the Agri Supply Expo Center for fairgoers to see and photograph at the N.C. State Fair, Oct. 15-25.
WHO/WHAT: Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler will officially open the 158th N.C. State Fair with a short ribbon-cutting ceremony. Following the ceremony, fairgoers are invited to check out the recently completed 32,000-square-foot food hall and meeting facility that will house five fair-time food vendors this year. WHEN/WHERE:
RALEIGH – From fresh North Carolina seafood and sweet potatoes to locally raised beef and Southern favorites with a modern twist, the Got to Be NC Cooking Stage is serving up a delicious celebration of North Carolina agriculture at the 2026 N.C. State Fair, Oct. 15-25.
RALEIGH – The N.C. State Fair will continue its tradition of offering special themed days in 2026. The days bring special programs, events and discounted or free admission to the fair, which runs Oct. 15-25 at the State Fairgrounds in Raleigh.“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.”
WHO/WHAT: The N.C. Plant Conservation Board will meet to discuss items related to land conservation, stewardship efforts of the N.C. Plant Conservation Program and regulatory matters. WHEN: Wednesday, Oct. 2110 a.m. to noonWHERE: Steve Troxler Agricultural Science Center 4400 Reedy Creek Road, Raleigh, NC