Sure, you can enjoy all the classic fair foods like corn dogs, kettle corn, funnel cakes and cotton candy at the North Carolina State Fair. But why not branch out and try a few of the fair's less traditional (but equally delicious) options, too? Scroll through the slideshow to discover six of the most unusual foods you'll find at this year's N.C. State Fair.

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Deep Fried Olives on a Stick

Facebook/N.C. State Fair

Try olives like you’ve never tried them before. This dish features stuffed olives on a stick, which are rolled in batter and deep fried until crispy and golden-brown.

See more: Best in Show at the N.C. State Fair

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NCField&FamilySummer2026
Flip through the pages of the Summer 2026 edition of North Carolina Field and Family magazine. In this issue, find vineyard adventures at U-pick muscadine grape farms, explore the oasis of Manteo, learn more about on-farm markets, enjoy peak berry season with summer berry recipes, read about riveting research on hemp fiber and so much more.

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