FLETCHER — The N.C. Mountain State Fair is making it easier for people to submit their competitive entries. The fair’s Pony Express will transport entries from area Cooperative Extension offices to the fair for judging.
Drop-off locations are located at extension centers in Avery, Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Swain, Watauga and Yancey counties, and on the Cherokee Reservation.
Residents should bring their non-perishable entries to participating offices by Aug. 19. A completed entry form must be included with all entries. Items should be wrapped and packed securely for transport. Packaging should be labeled with entrant’s name and county of residence.
Entries will be transported to the fair for judging and display. They will be returned to local extension offices by Sept. 20. If prize money is awarded, it will be mailed directly to winners after the fair.
“We know there are a lot of people who aren’t able to drop off their entries in person,” said fair manager Matt Buchanan. “The Pony Express makes it easier for those living in some of those outlying counties to get their entries to the fair and still be a part of the fun.”
The 2013 N.C. Mountain State Fair runs Sept. 6-15 at the WNC Agricultural Center. Fairgoers can save $2 on admission tickets and 50 percent on ride tickets by purchasing them before the fair. Advance tickets are $6 for adults 13-64, $2 for children ages 6-12 and seniors 65 and older. Groups with 30 or more people can purchase advance tickets for $5 per person. Ride tickets are available in advance for $7.50 for a sheet of 12 tickets.
Advance tickets are on sale at the WNC Agricultural Center, WNC Farmers Market, area Ingles stores and online at www.mountainfair.org.