We can smell the funnel cake already. Now in its 30th year, the NC Mountain State Fair returns to the WNC Ag Center next week, running Friday, Sept. 6 through Sunday, Sept. 15. And there’s plenty of fun to be had — like seeing live music at its Mountain Music Fest, watching cooking competitions, and cheering on the swimming pigs.

Tickets are available in person or online for $5-$7, but check out the schedule for special days where students, seniors, and service people can get free admission.

What’s new this year

An expanded food area with more local food trucks
Addition of the NC Pottery tent, as well as new exhibits to explore in the expo
New acts Hillbilly Bob, magician TJ Hill, and an acrobatic circus
More rides to explore (Pro tip: You can ride all 35 as many times as you want with the unlimited ride special.)