The 2025 N.C. Mountain State Fair concluded with an attendance of 161,059, marking an increase of 11,709 visitors compared to the previous year. The event took place amid favorable weather conditions.
Sean McKeon, manager of the N.C. Mountain State Fair, reflected on the fair’s significance for the community. “There are a lot of ways to measure success, but seeing so many people here having a good time and making memories with their families and friends is what the fair is all about,” McKeon said. “This year the fair had special significance as we approach the one year anniversary of Helene. It was a blessing to see so many families and local businesses participating in the fair and getting some normalcy back in their lives. It was a powerful reminder of the resilience of the people of Western NC. It was a great feeling seeing the community come together to celebrate, especially after such a challenging year. We appreciate everyone who attended this year, and we look forward to seeing you all in 2026.”
A key feature this year was continued collaboration with Ingles for We CAN Fight Hunger Day, where attendees could exchange five canned goods for admission. The food drive collected 26,223 pounds of donations for Manna Food Bank.
Interest in competitions remained strong at this year’s fair, including new events like the Mullet & Mustache Competition. Overall competition entries increased by approximately 1,000 from last year.
Two supporters were inducted into the N.C. Mountain State Fair Livestock Hall of Fame: Marjorie Burton for her involvement with dairy goat shows and Mike Corn for managing livestock exhibits such as Mooternity Ward.
The Caps for Cancer and Covers for Cancer Program saw its highest participation yet, collecting 1,506 caps and 254 warm covers for cancer patients—items sponsored by Novant Health and distributed through Messino Cancer Center.
Organizers have announced that next year’s N.C. Mountain State Fair will take place from September 11-20, 2026.
