The Carolina Classic Fair returns to the Winston-Salem Fairgrounds October 2-11, 2026, bringing 10 days of fall traditions, family fun, and classic fair experiences to the Piedmont Triad. As North Carolina’s second-largest agricultural fair, the Carolina Classic Fair combines the excitement of a world-class carnival midway with the traditions of agriculture, competitive exhibits, livestock, food, entertainment, and community celebration.

Fairgoers can spend the day taking in thrilling rides and games, discovering crave-worthy fair food, visiting animals and agricultural exhibits, exploring creative arts and culinary competitions, shopping with vendors, and enjoying entertainment throughout the grounds. The Fair is designed for families to make the day their own, whether that means a first carousel ride, a favorite midway tradition, a new food to try, a blue-ribbon exhibit to discover, or an evening under the lights.

The 2026 schedule also includes promotional and community-focused days that make it easier for families to plan a visit. Weekday guests can take advantage of free Early Bird admission before 1 p.m. Opening Day features $5 admission, while other special days recognize students, educators, military families, seniors, college students, and members of the community. On Food Day, guests can support Crisis Control Ministry by bringing five nonperishable food items in exchange for free admission. Special Education Day also includes quiet hours with reduced ride lights, music, and sound effects to create a calmer, more sensory-friendly experience.

From rides and food to animals, entertainment, competitions, and community traditions, the Carolina Classic Fair offers something for fairgoers of all ages.

Event Details at a Glance

Dates: October 2-11, 2026

Location: Winston-Salem Fairgrounds, 2825 University Parkway, Winston-Salem, NC 27105

Hours: Sunday-Friday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-11 p.m. Ticket gates close at 9 p.m.

Tickets: carolinaclassicfair.com/tickets

Carolina Classic Fair Admission & Pricing

General Admission

Ages 6+: $10 general admission
Children 5 and under: FREE
A $3 surcharge applies to qualifying admission purchased at the gate

Presale Pricing

General admission presale: $5
Weekday unlimited ride wristband presale: $30

Buying tickets online in advance is the easiest way to skip the gate surcharge and lock in the best pricing before your visit.

Special Days & Promotions

The Carolina Classic Fair’s 2026 schedule includes several promotional and community-focused days worth building your visit around:

Free Early Bird Admission: Free weekday admission before 1 p.m.
Opening Day: $5 admission for everyone on Friday, October 2
School Day: Free admission for qualifying students, teachers, and guests who donate 3 school supplies
Food Day: Free admission with a donation of 5 nonperishable food items, benefiting Crisis Control Ministry
Military Day: Free admission for active and retired military members and their immediate family with a valid military ID
Special Education Day: Includes designated quiet hours with reduced ride lights, music, and sound effects for a calmer, more sensory-friendly fair experience

Additional days throughout the 10-day run also recognize seniors and college students, check the official schedule for the most current details before you go.

What to Expect at the Carolina Classic Fair

As North Carolina’s second-largest agricultural fair, the Carolina Classic Fair blends a world-class carnival midway with the traditions of agriculture, competitive exhibits, livestock, food, and entertainment. Whether you’re planning a family day, a date night, or an outing with friends, there’s something for every kind of fairgoer:

Thrilling rides and midway games for all ages
Classic and creative fair food
Livestock and agricultural exhibits
Creative arts and culinary competitions
Vendor shopping throughout the grounds
Live entertainment across the fairgrounds

How to Get Tickets

Tickets for the 2026 Carolina Classic Fair can be purchased online in advance at carolinaclassicfair.com/tickets. Buying presale tickets is the best way to save on general admission and ride wristbands before arriving at the gate.

FAQ: 2026 Carolina Classic Fair

When is the 2026 Carolina Classic Fair? The Carolina Classic Fair runs October 2-11, 2026, at the Winston-Salem Fairgrounds.

What are the Carolina Classic Fair hours? The Fair is open Sunday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Ticket gates close at 9 p.m. each night.

How much does it cost to get into the Carolina Classic Fair? General admission is $10 for ages 6 and up, and free for children 5 and under. A $3 surcharge applies to tickets purchased at the gate, so buying online in advance is the more budget-friendly option. Presale general admission is available for $5.

Is there a discount day at the Carolina Classic Fair? Yes. Opening Day (Friday, October 2) offers $5 admission for everyone, and Early Bird admission is free on weekdays before 1 p.m. School Day, Food Day, and Military Day also offer free or discounted admission for qualifying guests.

Where is the Carolina Classic Fair held? The Carolina Classic Fair takes place at the Winston-Salem Fairgrounds, located at 2825 University Parkway, Winston-Salem, NC 27105.

How do I buy Carolina Classic Fair tickets? Tickets can be purchased online at carolinaclassicfair.com/tickets.

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