Every October, the North Carolina State Fair transforms the state fairgrounds in Raleigh into a vibrant playground filled with rides and games, live music, competitions, and—most importantly—food. For many of us, this event is one of the most anticipated food events of the year. It is where foodies from across North Carolina gather to indulge in some of the most creative, indulgent, and downright delicious dishes you will find anywhere.
With more than a hundred vendors serving everything from brisket waffles on a stick to fried Oreos, deciding what to eat might feel overwhelming. So today, I am sharing my 2025 NC State Fair Food guide—featuring what I plan on trying from the 2025 new food line-u, and what you absolutely should not miss if you are attending this year.
The Ultimate Guide to NC State Fair Food for 2025
What to Expect from the NC State Fair Food Scene
The North Carolina State Fair first began in 1853, and ever since, it has been a fall tradition celebrating community, creativity, and culinary innovation. Each year brings a mix of returning favorites and surprising new menu items that keep fairgoers coming back hungry.
For 2025, there are more than 175 vendors scattered throughout the state fairgrounds, with everything from hearty southern staples to plant-based innovations. You will find your usual suspects—funnel cake, corn dogs, and cotton candy—and there are also plenty of newcomers that make this year’s fair extra exciting. See the full round up of the new food finds for 2025.
My advice? Bring an appetite, a few friends to share plates, and a plan—because you are going to want to try more than one thing.
When is the NC State Fair
The NC State Fair runs from October 16–26, 2025, at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds in Raleigh. Gates open daily from morning until late evening, with food vendors staying open until the fair closes.
For full event details, ticket info, and daily entertainment schedules, visit the official NC State Fair website.
Pro tip: Go on weeknight afternoon or Sunday morning for a quieter experience before the crowds set in.
Best NC State Fair Food
The 2025 NC State Fair Food lineup delivers a mouthwatering mix of southern comfort and creative flair. Here is a look at both returning favorites and this year’s must-try newcomers:
The Cheese Curd Shack – New Homestyle Ranch Deep Fried Cheese Curds
Photo via NC State Fair
Cheese lovers, rejoice. The Homestyle Ranch Deep Fried Cheese Curds from The Cheese Curd Shack are one of this year’s breakout hits. Each golden bite is gooey, salty, and perfectly seasoned, with a ranch-infused batter that takes things to the next level.
They are addictive—fair warning. Grab a basket and a lemonade or a Cheerwine, and you have got yourself the ultimate fair snack combo.
Chester’s Gators and Taters – New Loaded Popcorn Chicken Sundae
Photo via NC State Fair
One of the boldest new creations of 2025, the Loaded Popcorn Chicken Sundae by Chester’s Gators and Taters layers crispy chicken bites with mashed potatoes, gravy, and cheese. It is indulgent, messy, and an absolute crowd-pleaser for adventurous fairgoers.
Ethio-Indi Alkaline Vegan Cuisine – New Nathaniel’s Taquito
Photo via NC State Fair
A top choice for plant-based foodies, Ethio-Indi Alkaline Vegan Cuisine serves nourishing lentil stews, veggie curries, and grain bowls packed with flavor. Their friendly team is happy to guide newcomers through the menu—and even offer samples. Their new food for 2025 is Nathaniel’s Taquito – 3 soft tacos with our signature burger, vegan cheese, rice, homemade salsa, lettuce, and spicy Amir sauce!
La Farm Bakery – New Pizza Croissant
Photo via La Farm Bakery Instagram
La Farm Bakery never disappoints, and this year’s new Pizza Croissant is already turning heads. It is a flaky, buttery croissant filled with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and spinach—essentially a grown-up pizza pocket with the sophistication only La Farm can deliver.
Pair it with one of their seasonal pastries or cold brews, and you have got a perfect mid-fair pick-me-up. If their s’mores are back this year, you absolutely must order one!
Las Gringas – Quesabirria Tacos
Photo via Instagram
Newer to the fair, Las Gringas continues to impress with their Quesabirria tacos and Mexican egg rolls. The flavors are rich, authentic, and full of warmth—ideal for those crisp October evenings at the fair.
Lawrence & Perry BBQ – New Deep Fried Lamp Chops
Photo via NC State Fair
For adventurous eaters, the Deep Fried Lamp Chops are a bold choice from the Lawrence & Perry BBQ food truck. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they’re perfectly seasoned and drizzled with a Balsamic Honey Maple Glaze and garnished with a light dusting of dried mint.
Mr. Pickle’s Concessions – New Teriyaki Fried Cauliflower
Photo via NC State Fair
New for 2025, Mr. Pickle’s Concessions is winning over crowds with their Teriyaki Fried Cauliflower. Crispy, saucy, and slightly sweet, it is a great alternative to heavier fried food while still delivering that satisfying crunch.
Even if you are not usually a cauliflower fan, give this one a try—it is proof that fair food can be both creative and crave-worthy.
Neomonde Mediterranean – New Carolina Shawarma Burger
Photo via NC State Fair
This innovative creation combines the flavors of Mediterranean lamb shawarma with a juicy burger, topped with pickled veggies and creamy house made coleslaw. It is savory, tangy, and unlike anything else at the fair. Neomonde always has a unique menu and one of my favorite stops at the NC State Fair.
Oak City Fish & Chips – New Swordfish Pop
Photo via Allison Ballard of Star News
This Raleigh staple is back with two exciting new dishes for 2025: Brown Sugar Hushpuppies and a Swordfish Pop.
The Brown Sugar Hushpuppies are a sweet twist on the southern favorite—soft, slightly caramelized, and served warm. They pair perfectly with Oak City’s crispy fish baskets. The Swordfish Pop, meanwhile, is exactly what it sounds like: a skewer of lightly battered swordfish chunks, fried to perfection and served with their special sauce. It is a fun, flavorful, and portable option for seafood lovers.
Of course, their classic fried fish and seasoned fries remain a must. Oak City Fish & Chips is known for their annual fried pops at the State Fair and I have found them to always be worth the hype!
Tropical Delights, LLC – New Orange Dreamsicle Crush
Photo via NC State Fair
Perfect for cooling down on a warm fall day, the Orange Dreamsicle Crush from Tropical Delights, LLC is creamy, fruity, and refreshing—a sweet treat that feels indulgent without being too heavy.
Waypoint Oyster Bar – New NC Blue Crabmeat Ceviche
Photo via Allison Ballard of Star News
For seafood lovers, the NC Blue Crab Meat Ceviche at one of my favorite fair stops, Waypoint Oyster Bar, is light, zesty, and bursting with fresh flavor. It is a sophisticated fair option for those looking for something beyond deep fried classics. If you are looking for a deep fried seafood spot, this is it! Get the shrimp burger here or try their new coconut shrimp on a skewer.
Do Food Vendors at NC State Fair Take Credit Cards
Yes—most food vendors at the NC State Fair now accept credit cards, debit cards, and even mobile payments. Popular booths like Oak City Fish & Chips, La Farm Bakery, Ethio-Indi Alkaline Vegan Cuisine, and The Cheese Curd Shack are all card-friendly.
Still, it is smart to bring some cash just in case—especially for smaller stands like Al’s French Fries or when lines are long. ATMs are available throughout the state fairgrounds.
NC State Fair Map
To help you plan your fair day, use this interactive NC State Fair 2025 Map to reference while you are exploring.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are there for the deep fried treats, the rides and games, or just the atmosphere, the NC State Fair is a celebration of creativity and community. Throw on one of your favorite sweater dress outfits and get ready for a day of snacking, strolling, and people-watching.
