Take the Kids: 6 free shows, activities worth catching with kids at the NC State Fair

For the moments when you need a break from the midway or, when you don't even plan to go over there at all, the NC State Fair offers a wide variety of free shows and activities to keep you busy.

Posted 1:01 a.m. Oct 12, 2018 — Updated 1:01 a.m. Oct 12, 2018

Sarah Lindenfeld Hall

, Go Ask Mom editor

RALEIGH, N.C. — For the moments when you need a break from the midway or, when you don't even plan to go over there at all, the NC State Fair offers a wide variety of free shows and activities to keep you busy (like the daily laser light show pictured above).

Here's a list of some of the new - or popular - free activities and shows that are lined up for 2018 and are fun for all ages. Before you go, be sure to check the daily schedule online so you can plan your day at the fair!

Canine Stars Stunt Dog Show

The show runs regularly at the Rand Grandstand and puts a spotlight on popular dog sports, including dock diving, freestyle Frisbee disc, flyball racing, high jumping and dog agility. Multiple breeds of dogs, including those who have been rescued or adopted from shelters, will perform.

The show starts on Sunday, Oct. 14, with multiple shows each day through Oct. 21. Times vary. So check the daily schedule when you get there.

Credit: Kevin Johnson, kjphotos.webs.com

Fire Safety Show

After a hiatus, the Fire Safety Show returns to the fair this year. You'll find it in Kiddieland.

The program will feature different fire departments from across the state daily. They bring play houses, puppets, clowns and all kinds of fire prevention-related entertainment. Young children and their parents love this one, which includes lessons on the importance of working smoke alarms and fire escape plans and more. .Shows start at 10 a.m., Friday, and are offered multiple times each day.

Casey's Clubhouse

The fair's mascot, Casey Cardinal, has been around for a few years. But, in 2018, he has a new clubhouse over in Kiddieland. Meet and greets with Casey, which are fun for young kids, start at 2 p.m., Friday, Oct. 12, and continues several times each day through the run of the fair.

Kachunga & the Alligator Show

It's true. There will be alligator wrestling at the State Fair this year. Kachunga, according to the fair's website, is said to be a "real American Bushman who dares to step foot into the murky domain of the American alligator."

Find Kachunga near Gate 1 starting Sunday, Oct. 14.

Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show

In the N.C. Forest Service area behind Heritage Circle, "real-life lumberjacks" will showcase their skills at axe throwing, crosscut sawing, log rolling and more. While you're there, you'll also learn about issues impacting our forests and why we need them.

Steve Trash's Green Street Magic Show

On the North Dorton Lawn, eco-entertainer Steve Trash will share his passion for the environment through eco-illusions, magic tricks and comedy. Shows start at 11 a.m., Friday, and continue daily through Oct. 21.

Go Ask Mom’s Take the Kids series is your No. 1 resource for weekly ideas about kid-focused places to take your family in the Triangle and beyond. New articles are published every Friday.

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