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NC State Fair announces 2026 dates and giant vegetable winners
The North Carolina State Fair is scheduled to run from October 15 to October 25, 2026, at the State Fairgrounds in Raleigh. The 11-day event will feature carnival rides, agricultural exhibits, live entertainment, and nightly fireworks at 9:45 p.m.
In the recent giant pumpkin and watermelon competitions, Albert Rodebaugh of Craigsville, West Virginia, took first place in the pumpkin category with a 2,123-pound entry. He also received the Howard Dill Award for the best-looking pumpkin. David and Gwen Harris of Blacksburg set a Virginia state record with an 1,861.8-pound pumpkin, placing second.
In the watermelon competition, Todd Dawson of Garner secured first place with a 281.6-pound entry. The pumpkin competition, which included a sanctioned event by The Great Pumpkin Commonwealth, offers prize money based on weight for the top three winners.
Entities
Albert Rodebaugh · North Carolina State Fair · Raleigh · The Great Pumpkin Commonwealth · Todd Dawson
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] David and Gwen Harris set a Virginia state record with an 1,861.8-pound pumpkin. jocoreport.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Gate admission for adults ages 13–64 is $13. foxync.com · hiphopnc.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Children ages 5 and younger receive free admission. foxync.com · hiphopnc.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Todd Dawson won the watermelon competition with a 281.6-pound entry. jocoreport.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Nightly fireworks are scheduled for 9:45 p.m. over Heritage Circle Pond. foxync.com · hiphopnc.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Albert Rodebaugh won the giant pumpkin competition with a 2,123-pound pumpkin. jocoreport.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] The NC State Fair is located at the State Fairgrounds in Raleigh. foxync.com · hiphopnc.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] The 2026 NC State Fair will take place from October 15 to October 25. foxync.com · hiphopnc.com