Chairlift rides, racing pigs and deep-fried treats are almost within reach as the 2016 N.C. Mountain State Fair opens Sept. 9 at the WNC Agricultural Center. Advance tickets for the fair will be available at area Ingles stores starting Aug. 3. The fair runs Sept. 9-18 at WNC Agricultural Center in Fletcher.

Fairgoers also can purchase advance tickets at the WNC Agricultural Center, WNC Farmers Market in Asheville and during the 2016 N.C. Apple Festival in Hendersonville. Visitors can save on admission tickets by purchasing them early. Children ages 5 and under receive free admission.

In addition, thrill seekers can save on ride tickets by purchasing early. The fair will once again offer the popular Family Fun Pack. The special ticket package, which is ideal for families and smaller groups, includes five adult gate admission tickets, four individual ride tickets plus vendor coupons.

The fair features livestock exhibitions and agricultural exhibits, free entertainment, live music, a full carnival and more. More details are available at  mountainfair.org.

– article submitted by NCDA/Matt Buchanan