NC Co-Op Extension highlights Pony Express Program for Mountain State Fair participation
Published 2:15 pm Wednesday, July 23, 2025
- The NC Mountain State Fair is currently accepting entries that can be dropped off at the NC Co-Op Extension for delivery to the fair. (Photo courtesy NC Mountain State Fair)
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POLK COUNTY—The NC Mountain State Fair is set to run from September 5-14, and the local NC Co-Op Extension, located at 79 Carmel Lane in Columbus, is encouraging adults, teens, and children to join in the fun by participating in the fair’s exhibitions. The process to participate has been made much easier thanks to the Pony Express program.
The Pony Express program provides a convenient way for residents of specified counties, including Polk County, to submit their entries to the NC Mountain State Fair. Participants are encouraged to register online before the deadline of August 22. Once registered, they can bring their non-perishable items, securely wrapped and labeled, to their local County Extension Office by 11:30 a.m. on the deadline date.
Lindsey Edwards, a representative from the NC Co-Op Extension, emphasizes the importance of this program as a way to increase youth involvement in the state fair.
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“Our goal is to encourage more kids to participate,” said Edwards. “Last year, I noticed that there wasn’t a large number of entries from our youth, particularly in categories like canning.”
Participants will have their entries transported to the fair for judging and display, with items only being returned via the Pony Express if picked up from the Extension Office route. Items will be delivered back to local Extension Offices by September 26. Any prize money won will be mailed directly to winners, with specific provisions in place for larger cash amounts.
The NC Mountain State Fair showcases a wide range of competitive categories for participants, including canning, arts and crafts, horticulture, and even LEGOS. Edwards notes that families can register collectively, allowing parents and children to enter their creations together.
“This year, it’s particularly important to get a variety of submissions from Polk County,” Edwards remarked. “We want to fill those categories and provide more opportunities for recognition and awards.”
Participants are encouraged to review the specific rules and guidelines for each category outlined in the 2025 catalog, available on the Mountain State Fair website (wncagcenter.org/p/mountainstatefair/exhibitors).
These guidelines ensure that entries meet the competition standards, particularly in areas like canning, which requires adherence to specific recipes and preparation methods.
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“Spots can fill up quickly, so we encourage everyone to enter as soon as possible,” she advised.
For additional information regarding the Pony Express program or participation details, visit ncmsf.fairwire.com.