North Carolina Fairs & Festivals: The Complete 2026 Guide

North Carolina hosts 519 fairs and festivals in 2026 across 48 counties — agricultural fairs, craft shows, food festivals, and seasonal celebrations. Season peaks in October, September, July. This guide covers the best-rated events, when to go, and how to find fairs near you.

Best-rated fairs & festivals in North Carolina

When to go

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Frequently asked questions

How many fairs and festivals are there in North Carolina in 2026?

Our directory lists 519 fairs and festivals across North Carolina, spanning 48 counties for the 2026 season — from agricultural fairs and craft shows to food festivals and seasonal celebrations.

When is fair season in North Carolina?

North Carolina's fair and festival season runs throughout the year, but it peaks in October, September, July. October alone has 101 events.

What is the most popular fair in North Carolina?

By Google reviews, SouthPark Saturdays Pop Up Market in Charlotte is among the most popular, holding a 4.5★ rating from 11,952 reviews.

What types of fairs and festivals are in North Carolina?

The most common are craft (507), food festival (421), artisan (274), music (105). You can browse any type, or filter by town, county, and month.