The largest annual event in the state, the N.C. State Fair draws one million visitors through the gates each October. Eleven days of high-flying rides, deep-fried foods, live music, stunt shows and other entertainment (including nightly fireworks) has been a can't-miss event for generations of families—the 2025 version of the N.C. State Fair marks the 157th year of the event! October 16 - October 25
In downtown Raleigh's City Plaza, more than 25 international wine suppliers—from Armenia to New Zealand—will gather to provide sample tastings (food trucks, desserts, a dance party and more will also keep you busy!). The festival brings over 20 different breweries from around the world. Taste then buy! Events that enrich our community. Admission: Free, tasting events $30+
One of the leading art museums in the American South, the North Carolina Museum of Art (NCMA) recently completed a major, three-year expansion that places it in the front ranks of museums nationwide. The NCMA offers a permanent collection spanning more than 5,000 years, a variety of celebrated exhibitions and public programs, an amphitheater for outdoor performances, and the nation’s largest museum park—164 acres of trails and parkland containing major works of art.
Seven days a week, serious food connoisseurs and regular folks, carefully pick through mounds of gorgeously presented fresh local produce at this popular open market, which is owned by the State of North Carolina.