August 8, 2026
Nothing compares to the Cabarrus County Fair! Returning September 11-19 for nine days of family fun, the Cabarrus County Agricultural Fair began back in 1953 and for decades has been a gathering place for creative minds, thrill seekers, and those looking to enjoy the local culture. The website is complete with a countdown clock, and for good reason. There is so much to look forward to at this classic event!
Here are five reasons to head to the Cabarrus County Fair in Concord, North Carolina.
1. Thrilling Rides, Live Music & Entertainment
Ok, technically, that’s three reasons in one, but we couldn’t leave out any of the amazing activities that are in store this year!
Held in the heart of racing country, the Cabarrus County Fair is known for fast rides, racing pigs and—like many other spots around town—you may even catch a NASCAR driver or crew member enjoying the festivities. Whether you’re competing against the crowd for that oversized stuffed animal or whirling high above the neon lights, the midway features thrilling rides and games with all the sights and sounds of an adventure to remember.
Get your tickets and then fulfill your need for speed. Once you hop off the rides, grab a snack and find a seat by the stage to enjoy some musical performances. The full line-up is available online, but acts including Landon Cline, The Towers and Kayla McKinney are scheduled to rock the crowd.
2. Discount Theme Nights
To save on this year’s fair fun, visit on one of four discount theme nights.
On Monday, September 14, Senior Day lets those ages 55 and older in free from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. The day after, fair goers can get $2 off entry during $2 Tuesday with a donation of two nonperishable food items. All rides will also be $2.
On Wednesday, September 16, School Night means free admission for Cabarrus County and Kannapolis City School students. Thursday is for the whole fam. September 17 is Carload Night with admission and ride wristbands for up to six people per vehicle for $90 (up to a $270 value!).
3. New Additions: Get Ready for Rodeo Theme Nights!
This year brings plenty of brand-new reasons to plan a visit to the Cabarrus County Fair. The rodeo is back this year but will feature for the first time, themed nights!
On September 11, 12, 18 and 19, enjoy live rodeo action from bull riding to barrel racing and have fun with the different themed nights!
- September 11: All-American Rodeo featuring red, white and blue fun, plus a bandana giveaway while supplies last.
- September 12: Retro Rodeo
- September 18: Neon/Glow Rodeo with a glow stick giveaway at the door
- September 19: Denim and Diamonds
Tickets for the fair and rodeo can be purchased at this link. Rodeo tickets include fair admission.
But that’s not all—Other new attractions include a Poppin’ Penelope, a balloon artist who will be installing a giant balloon display inside the Gold Hall during the entire duration of the fair.
4. Fair Food at its Finest
From fried Oreos and ice cream to corn dogs, roasted corn, turkey legs and sausage sandwiches, the food at the fair is deliciously extensive. There is no shortage of classic fair food with vendors like Daley’s Dogs and local favorite WAB #13. Grab a cup of specialty lemonade from The Local Lemon to wash it all down.
If you’re looking for a departure from the classics, check out Gus’s Greek Foods and Angela’s Seafood. No matter what fair fare you’re craving, this event is sure to satisfy.
5. Everything Beyond the Midway
Cows, pigs, and pups, oh my! Eudora Farms Petting Zoo and Robinson’s Racing Pigs set up the perfect encounter with some friendly animals, and livestock shows will move into the arena this year, offering more space and seating.
Shop local craft vendors and Cabarrus-grown booths inside the mercantile.
Fair Fast Facts
The fair is held at Cabarrus Arena & Events Center in Concord. For GPS, use 4551 Old Airport Road, Concord, NC 28025. Parking is free, and all transactions are cash only. General Gate admission is $8 for adults, $6 for children ages 6-11 and seniors (55+). Children 5 and under and active military and veterans (with ID) are admitted free.
Tickets can be purchased online. Options include general admission, rodeo tickets and ride wristbands. Take note: Online tickets are available through Etix which uses All-In Pricing, meaning the total price displayed includes ticket fees. Taxes will be calculated at checkout, and a processing fee may apply. For online ticketing questions, contact the Cabarrus Arena & Events Center at 704-920-3972.
For even more FAQ, check out all the information provided here.
Share the Fair
Gather your crew and head to Concord, North Carolina for this award-winning county fair experience! Be sure to share your visit on social media using #ExploreCabarrus and tagging @CabCoFair in your Instagram posts.
