For 78 years, the Chowan County Regional Fair has been a cornerstone of community life in Edenton, Chowan County, and its surrounding areas. Men, women, boys, and girls, generations of people have gathered together to ride rides, see shows, and compete in contests throughout the week of the fair.
It’s a staple of the fall every year, bringing together grandparents and grandchildren, parents and kids, and really, kids of all ages.
This year, it returns from September 23-27.
First organized in 1947, the fair has grown and evolved, winning awards throughout its history. Originally founded to promote local farming, the fair has evolved into a vibrant event that includes a variety of activities, games, and entertainment options for all ages.
First hosted at the National Guard Armory, it eventually moved to the American Legion Fairgrounds, the only place in town large enough to host the spectacle. And it has grown into one of the largest fairs in eastern North Carolina, drawing families from counties throughout eastern NC to participate in competitions, show animals, see fun, exciting, and daring shows, and of course, ride rides.
The food, deep-fried, decadent, sweet, and mouth-watering, returns,
with vendors providing everything from funnel cakes and deep-fried Oreos to hot dogs, burgers, and more. And, as always, the American Legion Auxiliary will be providing food, as well.
And, in addition to the return of the Railroad Circus, a must-see every year, exciting shows are going on throughout the week, including:
- Jared Rydlek with the “Contortion and Danger Show”
- Ember Fire Arts, performing daring fire tricks,
- Tiger Encounter, “an education, conservation, and preservation animal show” featuring Bengal tigers and even a white lion!
- Triple C Farm Party petting zoo
- Magician TJ Hill
And too many musical guests to name here!
And, of course, there are going to be lots of rides, too.
The Chowan County Fair opens at 4 PM every day from September 23-26, and it opens early for its final day on the 27th at 11 AM, at the American Legion Fairgrounds at 1317 W. Queen St.
We hear this a lot, but in this case, it’s totally true. There is something for everyone. Whether you have a young thrillseeker looking to ride rides, you want to finally try that deep-fried Oreo, or spend an evening singing gospel favorites with family, friends, and neighbors, there’s something for everyone at the Chowan County Fair.
