-information courtesy of the N.C. State Fair Press Office
October seems a long way off, but for anyone interested in entering any of the competitions at the annual N.C. State Fair, fall is just around the corner.
The fair is slated for Oct. 12-22 in Raleigh and its Competitive Exhibits Coordinator John Buettner wants to make sure all prospective exhibitors have plenty of time to check out rules and deadlines for all the different exhibit categories.
Whether it’s culinary arts, handicrafts and hobbies, livestock exhibitions, horticulture or something else, there probably is a competition for most everyone to enter.
“We have a lot of classic categories and even a few new categories for competitions, and only a few require an entry fee” Buettner stated. Now is the time to read about competition rules and deadlines.
“With 4,027 classes of competitions available for entry, there is truly something for everyone. We love to see all of the talent in our state, so don’t miss this opportunity to be a part of one of North Carolina’s most cherished traditions,” he added.
To enter a competition, go to ncstatefair.org and click on competitions. The website offers a guide to all competitions, events and attractions visitors can expect during this year’s fair. Entrants can start registering online now. The deadline for submitting entries is Sept. 15, but don’t hesitate to enter in your preferred competitions early.
All contest entrants are required to submit W-9 forms along with their entry submissions. This ensures that necessary tax-related information is collected from participants. Guides and sample forms can be found on the Fair’s official website, ncstatefair.org.
The N.C. State Fair works with ShoWorks, a data management software, to compile entries. Entry forms can be mailed in or entered using the ShoWorks website or app.
“We are always excited to see what competitiors bring each year,” Buetnner said. “Whether it’s your first time entering or you’re a seasoned pro, it’s a great idea to get started early on your entries.”