The NC State Fair, the largest 11-day event in the state, is set to open in Wake County on Thursday, offering hundreds of thousands of visitors the chance to sample a wide variety of tasty food and gastronomic delights. To ensure the safety and quality of the culinary offerings, the Wake County Environmental Health and Safety team will conduct inspections of food vendors, issuing temporary permits to vendors who meet all standards.

“This iconic event brings over 800,000 people to enjoy music, food, games, rides and farm displays,” said Shinica Thomas, Chair of the Board of Wake County Commissioners. “Our inspectors play a vital role at this huge event that draws so many to our great County each fall. They ensure the food is safe for everyone to enjoy as they explore all the entertainment and thrills of the State Fair.”

On Monday, October 9, a group of 42 inspectors began examining more than 150 food stands, food trucks and tents. Each vendor must meet strict health and safety rules before receiving a permit.

Temporary Food Establishment permits are issued to food and drink vendors that operate in conjunction with a fair, festival or other similar event. For NC State Fair vendors, Wake County has developed a guide for submitting the application, along with a dedicated phone line to reach Environmental Services for any inquiries at 919-664-7700.

During inspections, Wake County team of inspectors checks that food is stored at the correct temperature, that equipment used for handling food is clean and functioning properly. We also ensure that booths, food tents and food trucks are clean and that the people working with food follow good hygiene practices. All these steps help keep our community safe from foodborne illnesses.

Hosted at the State Fairgrounds in Raleigh, the fair has been a cherished tradition since its inception in 1853, celebrating North Carolina's agricultural heritage and culture.