RALEIGH, NC – The countdown to blue ribbons, bragging rights, and prize money has officially begun! The N.C. Mountain State Fair has released its comprehensive competition information online, inviting artists, crafters, gardeners, livestock enthusiasts, cooks, and more to start preparing their entries for the much-anticipated 2025 event. With a thrilling new "Mullet & 'Stache" competition and the return of the popular Ice Cream Eating Contest, this year's fair promises unique opportunities for both seasoned exhibitors and first-time participants.

Fair-goers can now access the full competition catalog, rules, and crucial deadlines at https://www.wncagcenter.org/p/mountainstatefair/exhibitors. All registrations must be completed online through the ShoWorks system.

A Cut Above: The "Mullet & 'Stache" Show Debuts

New for 2025, the N.C. Mountain State Fair is embracing classic coiffures and glorious facial hair with its inaugural "Mullet & 'Stache" competition. Scheduled for September 6th on the Heritage Stage, this in-person, day-of contest offers a chance to win cash prizes for the best mullet and most fabulous mustache. First place takes home $50, second $25, and third $10, along with a coveted ribbon.

"The hair must be your own, no extensions are allowed, but styling aids including color, glitter or hair products, are permitted," fair officials stated. Contestants will be judged on appearance, style, presentation, and audience reaction, promising a lively and entertaining spectacle.

Sweet Victory: Ice Cream Eating Contest Returns

Fair favorite, the Ice Cream Eating Contest, is back on September 9th, sponsored by the N.C. Dairy Producers Association. Competitors across four age classes – 5-7, 8-12, 13-17, and 18 and up – will race to devour a designated amount of ice cream. The first to finish in each class will receive a trophy, with ribbons awarded for second and third place. Participation is limited to the first 20 registrants per age group, so early sign-ups are highly recommended.

Beyond the Novelties: A Showcase of Western NC Talent

"In addition to these special one-day only contests, the general and livestock competitions offered each year are always a fun, creative and inspiring part of the N.C. Mountain State Fair," said Sean McKeon, N.C. Mountain State Fair general manager. "Artists, crafters, gardeners, livestock exhibitors, wood workers, hobbyists, cooks, singers and musicians can also earn colorful ribbons and prize money for their top entries while showcasing the incredible talent we have in Western N.C."

Key Deadlines to Remember:

Exhibitors are encouraged to submit their entries well in advance, as popular categories can reach capacity before the official deadlines.

• August 8: Cooking Competitions, Gospel Singing Contest

• August 15: Clogging Championship

• August 22: General Competitions, Livestock Contests

Convenient Entry and Pony Express Service:

All general exhibit competitions are free to enter and open to North Carolina residents. For those in outlying Western N.C. counties, the convenient Pony Express Service allows general exhibitors to drop off their entries at their local county extension office by August 22nd for delivery to the fair. A list of participating counties for this service can be found on the fair's website.

Livestock competitions offer various categories for cattle, swine, goat, sheep, poultry, rabbits, and llamas. Youth shows are free to enter, while open shows require a fee. Detailed rules and documentation are available online.

The 2025 N.C. Mountain State Fair will run from September 5th to 14th at the Western N.C. Ag Center in Fletcher. Discount tickets are now on sale at www.wncagcenter.org. Don't miss your chance to be a part of this vibrant celebration of North Carolina's talent and heritage!