The North Carolina State Fair offers a variety of free entertainment, admission discounts, and promotional deals for attendees. These opportunities range from free admission for military personnel to food drives that exchange donations for tickets. The fair also provides several no-cost attractions included with the price of admission, such as bird shows, fire safety demonstrations, and musical performances. Additionally, specific days are dedicated to honoring different groups, offering them complimentary entry and special activities.
Free Admission Opportunities
Several avenues exist for fairgoers to gain entry to the North Carolina State Fair without paying the full gate price. These opportunities are primarily tied to specific days of the fair or through charitable contributions.
Smithfield Foods Hunger Relief Day
On Thursday, October 23, 2025, the fair will host Smithfield Foods Hunger Relief Day. This initiative allows fairgoers to exchange six non-perishable food items for one free admission ticket at the fair gates. The promotion encourages bulk donations; for example, 18 cans of food would equal three admission tickets. Donations are accepted at all gates.
The fair specifies preferred items for donation to maximize benefit to the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina. Acceptable items include: - Peanut butter and jams (in larger plastic jars) - Chicken, tuna, or salmon (in pouches or pop-top cans) - Ravioli and other ready-to-heat meals (in pop-top cans) - Dried or canned fruit (in sealed containers or pop-top cans) - Granola or protein bars (in boxes with individually wrapped contents)
This program has been a tradition since 1993, resulting in the donation of over six million pounds of food to the food bank and its partners. It is recognized as one of the largest one-day canned-food drives in the state.
Duke Energy Military Appreciation Day
On Wednesday, October 22, 2025, the fair partners with Duke Energy to pay tribute to active U.S. Military personnel. With valid proof of identification, military members and one guest can gain free entry to the fair. A parade is scheduled to take place at 10 a.m., starting in the carnival midway, passing through Kiddieland and the Scott Building, and returning to the midway.
Daily Military Discount
For military personnel visiting on days other than the dedicated appreciation day, a daily discount is available. Active-duty service members, reservists, retirees, National Guardsmen, and their dependents (ages 13-64) pay $8 daily at the gate, which represents a 38% discount. Veterans are eligible for the same discount for themselves and may purchase one additional discounted ticket for a guest or dependent, totaling two tickets at the reduced rate.
To receive this discount, specific identification is required: - Valid Uniformed Services ID - Valid Common Access Card (CAC) - Valid North Carolina Driver’s License with Veteran Designation - Valid Veteran's Affairs Health Identification Card - Photocopy of valid DD-214 Form - Photocopy of valid NGB-22 Form
Advance sale tickets are available from July 1 through October.
Free Entertainment and Attractions
Admission to the fair includes access to numerous shows and attractions. These events are designed to be educational and entertaining for all ages.
The Birdman: World Class Bird Shows
Located near Gate 7 in the State Fair Conservation Forest, The Birdman offers world-class bird shows. Joe Krathwohl and his team utilize creative, positive-reinforcement training to perform moving free-flight experiences. These shows aim to help attendees emotionally connect with the birds while learning about avian wildlife and conservation.
Fire Safety Show
The N.C. Department of Insurance Office of the State Fire Marshal hosts a Fire Safety Show near the Administration Building at the end of Kiddieland. Fire departments from across North Carolina participate, bringing clowns, puppet friends, and fire prevention houses. The primary goal is to educate children and families about the importance of working smoke alarms and establishing a fire escape plan.
Cast in Bronze
Situated in Heritage Circle, Cast in Bronze is a unique musical act featuring 35 bells with a total weight of four tons each. The act consists of two carillons and is the only musical performance of its kind in the world, featuring the only two carillons in history supported by listeners.
Casey’s Clubhouse
In Kiddieland, Casey Cardinal has a clubhouse and makes regular appearances daily. Attendees can meet Casey Cardinal and receive an ‘I Met Casey Cardinal’ button. Specific appearance times are listed in the daily schedule.
Senior Fun Fest
On a specific day, a Senior Fun Fest takes place beginning at 9 a.m. on the Dorton Patio near the Waterfall. While supplies last, Bojangles’ biscuits and coffee are served. A program featuring Commissioner Steve Troxler and music kicks off at 10 a.m.
NC State Employee Discounts
While not directly part of the State Fair, North Carolina State University employees have access to various discounts and perks that may be relevant to residents of the area. These include partnerships with local businesses and services.
321 Coffee
NC State University has partnered with 321 Coffee, an alumni-owned business, to launch "Greater Good," a medium roast coffee from Guatemala. A portion of the sales from this product helps fund NC State scholarships. Employees can use the code "GoPack" to get free shipping on orders of $50 or greater.
The Produce Box
NC State employees are offered $25 off their first order with The Produce Box using the code "WOLFPERK."
AAA Membership
NC State employees can save 20% off a full year of AAA basic membership. This includes 24-hour roadside assistance, AAA Discounts & Rewards, and travel services. To join, employees can visit the AAA website and use Promo code GTNCSTU or call customer service.
Educational Discounts for Seniors
North Carolina offers educational opportunities for senior citizens, allowing them to audit classes at state universities and community colleges on a space-available basis. State residents 65 and older can audit classes tuition-free at North Carolina State University and community colleges. Registration fees are typically waived, though an application fee may apply depending on the specific college.
This benefit extends to other states as well. For example, New York offers free or reduced tuition for senior citizens at many state schools. Queens College allows residents 60 and up to audit courses for a fee of $80 per semester. Purchase College allows residents at least 60 to enroll tuition-free as "older adult auditors" for up to two credit-bearing courses per semester, though a $50 special auditor's fee and $25 for a College ID are required, plus any course-specific fees.
New Mexico provides the Opportunity Scholarship, which covers 100% of tuition and fees for residents, including senior citizens, attending public colleges and universities.
Ruckus Pizza Promotions
Ruckus Pizza, which has a location at NCSU, offers various services and promotions. While specific free samples are not detailed, the establishment emphasizes affordable, comfortable, and delicious food. Ruckus provides catering services for events, groups, and parties, handling details like customized menus and table settings. They also offer an online ordering system for convenience. Customer reviews highlight large portion sizes and menu variety.
Conclusion
The North Carolina State Fair provides significant value through free admission opportunities for military personnel and those participating in the Smithfield Foods Hunger Relief Day. Attendees can enjoy a wide array of free entertainment, including bird shows, fire safety demonstrations, and musical performances, all included with admission. For NC State employees and senior citizens, additional discounts and educational benefits are available throughout the year, extending the concept of freebies beyond the fairgrounds.