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WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — The Carolina Classic Fair kicked off Friday morning in Winston-Salem.
Over its 10 days the event is expected to draw in more than 300,000 people from across North Carolina.
This year marks the first time the QRC Ice Arena will be open for public skating during the fair, and it’s just one of several new additions.
With more than 100 attractions, rides and delicious food the Carolina Classic Fair offers something for everyone, and for longtime fair Director Cheryle Hartley that favorite attraction is Yesterday’s Village.
“All of these buildings were donated to the fair, and we rebuilt them. It’s always been one of my favorite spots. It is where I come to de-stress,” Hartley said.
Hartley has worked for more than 35 years to bring the fair to life, and in 2018, she became the first female fair director.
Winston-Salem Mayor Allen Joines honored her commitment as he announced her retirement at the opening ceremony.
“Cheryle on behalf of the hundreds of thousands and that’s no exaggeration, hundreds of thousands of families who have enjoyed the Carolina Classic Fair under your leadership, I want to thank you for your loyalty, wisdom and perseverance,” Joines told the crowd standing outside the main gate.
Hartley said she and her team began planning the 143th Carolina Classic Fair last year, and they have been working to make this year her best one yet.
“If the weather stays like this, I’m hoping to break records. Pre-COVID attendance was around 300,000 to 350. We’re getting close to that 300,000 mark now,” Hartley explained.
The Carolina Classic Fair, formerly the Dixie Classic Fair, is the second-largest agricultural fair in North Carolina, and contributes significantly to the $1 billion in tourism Forsyth County brings in each year.
Hartley said seeing people experience all the fair has to offer is what she will miss most, and while she may not work the fair anymore after this year, she still plans to attend in the future.
“It’s bittersweet for me, so yes this is the last first day, but I’m looking forward to the nine more beautiful ones and coming back,” she said.
In addition to new attractions there are also a few new policies.
The big one is the clear bag policy. If you don’t have one, there are some available.
There are also lockers available for people to store their belongings.
Another new policy asks anyone attending or participating in the event to be courteous and treat everyone with respect and fairness.
The Carolina Classic Fair concludes October 12.
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Sasha Strong
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