Visiting a local county fair gives you a chance to slow down and smell the popcorn…and the barbeque, corn dogs, and funnel cakes. At hundreds of county fairs around the United States, you can browse the exhibits, sniff the farm animal aromas, and listen to great regional entertainment with your family. And best of all, you can enjoy these simple pleasures at our Cherokee County Fair in Ranger – just a few miles from Murphy, NC. So put the third weekend in October on your calendar, head to the Mountain Folk Center, and enjoy some Cherokee County Fair fun.
Launching the 2015 Cherokee County Fair
Back in 2015, some Cherokee County residents got together, and sparked the idea of resurrecting the county fair. With the county’s history and pride in its agricultural roots, enthusiasm and ideas were flowing thick and fast.
After just a few months’ planning time, and with the support of local officials and the Cherokee County Tourism Development Authority, the Cherokee County Fair made its debut in late October 2015. Held at the Mountain Folk Center on US Highway 64 in Ranger, the first-year fair met with considerable success. After planners had time to catch their breath, they quickly began organizing a bigger 2016 event.
The 2016 Cherokee County Fair: Coming Soon
During the weekend of October 21-23, the Mountain Folk Center will again host the Cherokee County Fair festivities. Just 12 miles west of Murphy, this popular spot also houses the summer Farmer’s Market and Nora Starks Memorial Horse Arena. The Fair offers free parking, and a free shuttle van will transport visitors from offsite parking areas.
Enjoy a Full Slate of Family-Friendly Activities
After you arrive at the Cherokee County Fair, refer to your Fair Program for locations of specific attractions. For starters, head to the covered pavilion, where you’ll find a diverse collection of exhibitors. Learn about community groups, view food and craft displays, and browse a growing selection of craft vendors. In other words, there’s something for everybody.
Next, head over to the farm animal exhibits, always a hit with the younger set. Kids will also enjoy the bounce house, pony rides, and other kid-focused activities. Don’t miss the pie-eating contest, where competitors of all ages and sizes will chow down on gooey confections at lightning speed. And word has gotten out that this year’s Tractor Parade will include even more vintage and modern machines. You might also see some antique farm equipment.
Don’t Miss These Special Fair Attractions
Of course, a county fair wouldn’t be complete without live music and dance performances. Throughout the weekend, a variety of talented regional performers will take the stage. And back by popular demand, the Monroe County Vaulting Team will amaze visitors with their acrobatics on horseback.
New for 2016, Alan Kay will teach and demonstrate valuable survival skills. As fans of the History Channel’s “Alone” series already know, Alan won the Season 1 competition for his ability to survive in Vancouver Island’s challenging conditions. You might say Alan’s a pro at making the most of tough situations.
Enjoy Midway Rides and Tasty Food
Kids of all ages will enjoy the Cherokee County Fair’s exciting midway rides. And of course you’ll be tempted by lots of mouth-watering food. Just follow the enticing smells, and you might be rewarded with barbeque, corn dogs, wraps, and burgers. Of course, we can’t forget sweet treats such as funnel cakes, ice cream, candied apples, and more. In other words, you might want to come hungry.
Get the Lowdown on Fair Logistics
Whether you’re available during the day or evening, you can visit the Cherokee County Fair sometime during the three-day weekend. The fairgrounds are open Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Check the Fair’s website below for full admission cost details.
Important notes: Plan to pay for your admission, food, purchases, and midway tickets with cash. Leave your pets at home, as they could rile up the livestock or make some Fair-goers nervous.
Now that you’ve put the Cherokee County Fair on your calendar, spend some time in Murphy, NC before heading out to Ranger for the festivities. Because new Fair events and performers are added frequently, check the Fair’s Facebook Page or website for full details:
http://www.cherokeecountyfair.com/?utm_source=www.visitnc.com&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=downstream-referral .
The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – www.ilovemurphy.com – Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team