Food and ride inspections are underway at the 2025 North Carolina State Fair, which runs Oct. 16 until Oct. 26.
Before opening day, inspectors on Wednesday will examine nearly 100 rides, including all the classics and three new pendulum rides designed for those seeking high-flying thrills at the fair:
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- The Colossus - Eight riders on opposite ends of a giant pendulum experience spins, turns and rolls as the pendulum loops around 360 degrees.
- The Flip Side - On this ride, four rows of seats face outward at the bottom of the pendulum, which sends riders high into the sky. Each row can flip upside down and each seat can spin in circles.
- Kamikaze - A two-armed ride that sends both arms in opposite directions. Each arm has enclosed carts that will flip upside down.
Inspectors from the state Department of Labor will be on site Wednesday to demonstrate how they inspect the parts and mechanics of each ride in addition to reviewing each ride's training for operators and maintenance and inspection records.
North Carolina state law requires portable rides, like those used at the fair, to undergo inspection at each new location.
The big draw to the fair is the food, and Wake County inspectors will also be at the fairgrounds to make sure everything is safe to eat. According to the county, a team of 43 inspectors began working Oct. 9 and will work until the fair's opening day to inspect about 150 food stands, food trucks and tents.
Inspectors check to make sure food is stored at proper temperatures, that equipment used for food is clean and functioning properly and that booths, food tents and trucks are sanitary. Food vendors who pass inspection will be issued temporary permits.
There are more than 80 new foods this year. WRAL has a list of all the new dishes plus a list of 10 favorites, including savory Hawaiian street corn -- served in a pineapple -- and the popular Dubai chocolate strawberry cup.
WRAL's guide to the N.C. State Fair has tips for parking, shuttles and more.