N.C. State Fair to showcase new Ferris Wheel, opens Oct. 15

RALEIGH, N.C. — The North Carolina State Fair kicks off on Thursday, Oct. 15, and will feature what state officials say is the biggest Ferris wheel to be featured at the Fair.

The Ferris wheel is themed for the America 250 celebrations, celebrating the anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The America 250 Wheel features 45 presidential-themed gondolas that seat six riders each. It will replace the former Skygazer wheel behind Dorton Arena.

To ride the America 250 Wheel, guests will need to purchase a separate ticket to ride; the Ferris wheel is not included in the unlimited ride wristband.

There will also be over 80 new food items to enjoy at this year’s Fair.

New food items include pickle cheesecakes, Scotch eggs, caramel Biscoff mozzarella dogs, crab cake empanadas, and deep-fried hot dog tacos.

The fair typically sees nearly one million visitors every year, with lighter crowds on weekdays than on weekends.

The fair runs from Oct. 15 through Oct. 25 in Raleigh.