September 7-16, 2012
NC Mountain State Fair is the "state fair" of the west. The ten-day event, attended by 180,000+ people, celebrates the people, agriculture, art and tradition that make our region great. It's fun for all ages, with plenty of exhibits, animals, food, rides and more. The fair is held at the Western North Carolina Agriculture Center, a little south of Asheville near the Asheville Regional Airport (I-26 East, exit 40).
While the fair includes the midway with fun rides and tricky games, we love the impressive exhibits in various buildings. See the many competitions from quilt making, photography, extreme garden vegetables, flowers, crafts and more. Watch craftspeople at work. Stroll through the barns to see and learn about a big variety of animals. And see home improvement exhibitors and buy from local businesses.
Drew Exposition returns to provide the thrilling midway rides and games for visitors to enjoy. The Bojangles Music Stage will host local and regional bands and performers for daily shows. In addition, the Mountain Music Competition that runs September 8-17 offers more great entertainment. Tickets: Purchase advance tickets through at participating Ingles stores, the Western N.C. Ag Center and the Western N.C. Farmers Market in Asheville. Adult admission is $6 in advance versus $7 at the gate. Child and senior admission is $2 in advance compared to $3 at the gate. Hours:
Friday & Saturday: 9am - 12 Midnight
Sunday: 9am - 11pm
Monday - Thursday: 3pm - 11pm Directions:
From Asheville, NC take I-26 East to Exit #40 (Asheville Airport Exit). Turn right at top of exit ramp onto Highway NC 280. After the 2nd stop light, turn left into Gate 6 or 7. From South Carolina on I-26 West toward North Carolina, after you enter North Carolina take exit #40 (Asheville Airport Exit). Turn left at top of exit ramp onto NC 280. After the 3rd stop light, turn left into Gate 6 or 7. FREE parking is available on fairground property and satellite property. Parking is located on Highway 280 at Gate 6. Satellite parking is located 1 mile South of Gate 6 (follow the signs) with free bus transportation to the fairgrounds (shuttle runs every 10-15 minutes). | 
