Raleigh, N.C. — The 2008 North Carolina State Fair opens Thursday in Raleigh. There are some new sights to see this year.

“I can't imagine there's a better entertainment value anywhere in the state of North Carolina than this state fair,” Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler said.

The prices may not be steep, but some of the new rides are.

The fair has “the world's largest portable roller coaster,” Charlie Belknap of Powers Great American Midways said.

Also new this year is the Vortex ride.

“This one ride has a spectacular LED light show on it. It's the only carnival ride at this point in the United States with this lighting package on,” Belknap said.

The fair has upgraded the grounds and gone green.

“You are sure to notice the new LED lighting we've installed in Dorton Arena,” State Fair Manager Wesley Wyatt said.

Also new this year is the economic crisis.

“Right now, our advance sales are down from last year, but last year we had a record year,” said Mike Pleasant, assistant fair manager.

Advance tickets can be purchased online, and starting Thursday, advance walk-up tickets will be available at several locations.

Advance tickets will save $2 per adult admission ticket and $8 per ride sheet.