It's a place where childhood memories are made — the prize teddy bear, the savory corn dog + cotton candy, or the first merry-go-round ride in a whirl of neon lights.

That magic has now returned to the Charlotte Motor Speedway. The Charlotte Fair is back and promises to be better than ever with two extra days of family fun, dozens of thrilling rides, classic games, tasty fair food, live entertainment, and more.

Monday-Thursday: 4-10 p.m.
Friday: 4-11 p.m.
Saturday: 1-11 p.m.
Sunday: 1-10 p.m.

More than 40 rides stretched over 10 acres will be ready for guests to enjoy, from Sky Hawk to the stomach-churning Sea Dragon. There will also be plenty of attractions to enjoy:

Barnyard petting zoo
Escape show performances by Lady Houdini
Aerial stunt shows by Lady J
Carolina DockDogs featuring high flying, acrobatic dogs

CLTtoday editor Maria took full advantage of the opportunity to feed the animals at the Charlotte Fair petting zoo. | Photo by CLTtoday

Come hungry. All the classic fair food will be there, think funnel cakes, pizza, and ice cream. Editor's pick: Jamaican cuisine to savor some jerk chicken.

The manpower required to bring a full-scale attraction to Concord for two weeks is not something to be overlooked. "It is the most wonderful challenge of my year," said event producer Landon Linton, who emphasized he's seen this production continue to grow in the last 16 years.

"In 20 years, people will be talking about how 'I went to the Charlotte Fair.' With any luck at all, we'll be bigger and serving many more people in the county and the city even more than we have before."

Event producer Landon Linton says more attention has been made this year for the patron-experience: efficient security, spots for shade and more space to thin crowds. | Photo by CLTtoday

Ticket packages can be purchased online. One-day admission includes:

$12 for adults (12+)
$8 for kids (5-11)
Kids 4 & under are free

Editor's note: Special week day deals offer parking/admission discounts for students, teachers, veterans, and first responders on respective days.

The Charlotte Fair runs through Monday, April 1.