Top 10 Tips for Enjoying the Carolina Classic Fair (2026)
By Kodia Byers | Updated 2026 | Originally written by Elizabeth-Lee Lawley
The Carolina Classic Fair (formerly the Dixie Classic Fair) returns to Winston-Salem for 10 days, running October 2–11, 2026, at the fairgrounds located at 421 W 27th St. Attending the Fair is a rite of passage for Triad families, with a world-class carnival, live entertainment, unbeatable fair food, and exhibits for livestock, arts, crafts, and more.
Navigating the Fair — especially with kids in tow — can feel like a lot. Here’s what moms need to know to make the most of it in 2026.
1. Hours of Operation
The Fair runs Sunday–Friday, 11 a.m.–11 p.m., and Saturday, 9 a.m.–11 p.m. Ticket gates close at 9 p.m. each night, so plan your arrival accordingly.
2. Admission & Early Bird Pricing
General admission (ages 6+) is $10, with a $3 surcharge if purchased at the gate — buying online in advance avoids that extra fee. Children 5 and under are free. If you arrive before 1 p.m. Monday through Friday, early bird admission is free.
3. Unlimited Ride Wristbands
Monday through Friday, unlimited ride wristbands are available for $35. If you’d rather pay as you go, individual ride tickets are $0.50 each, and $50 buys you 120 tickets.
4. Opening Day Deal — Friday, October 2
Kick off the Fair on opening day with $5 admission for everyone.
5. School Day — Monday, October 5
Field trips, students, and teachers get in free from 9 a.m.–2 p.m. — just bring 3 school supplies to donate to Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools. Rides are discounted too: 10 rides for $20. Expect WS/FCS performances, free carousel rides until 2 p.m., and popcorn.
6. $3 Tuesday & Senior Day — Tuesday, October 6
Admission drops to $3 for everyone, and it’s free for seniors 55+. All rides are just $3, and select vendors offer $3 food specials.
7. Food Day & Special Education Day — Wednesday, October 7
Bring 5 nonperishable food items to receive free admission (benefiting Crisis Control Ministry). Admission is also free for persons with special needs and their aides, and the Fair now offers quiet hours from 11 a.m.–2 p.m., when ride lights, music, and sound effects are reduced for a calmer, more sensory-friendly experience.
8. Military & College Day — Thursday, October 8
College students with a valid ID get in for $5, courtesy of the U.S. Army. Active and retired military members and their immediate families get in free with military ID.
9. Pepsi Family Fun Day — Friday, October 9
Kiddie ride wristbands for kids 10 and under are $20, sold from 12–6 p.m., with riding allowed until 7 p.m.
10. Know Before You Go
The Fair enforces a clear bag policy, and prohibited items include coolers, weapons, drones, laser pointers, and oversized bags — worth reviewing the full list before you pack your bag. All guests go through security screening, including walk-through magnetometers.
Visit carolinaclassicfair.com for tickets, the full schedule, and directions.
Sponsored by Carolina Classic Fair
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