N.C.’s largest County Fair returns Sept. 25
- Staff Reports

- Sep 22, 2025
- 3 min read

SHELBY — Since 1924, the Cleveland County Fair has brought families together to celebrate agriculture, community and fun. With livestock shows, thrilling rides, live entertainment and that famous fair food, North Carolina’s largest county fair welcomes more than 100,000 visitors annually.
Join us this year as we celebrate 101 years from Sept. 25 to Oct. 5 at the Cleveland County Fairgrounds, 1751 E. Marion St., Shelby.
In addition to the exciting rides, fun games, and delicious food, many amazing acts will keep fairgoers entertained, including: Majestic Spectacular Thrill Show (motorcycle stints); demolition derby; K9s in Flight (trained dogs); Ackmonsters Chainsaw Art; and the Magic of Lance Gifford.
For the full schedule, admission specials and ticket purchases, go to SeeItInShelby.com. Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok for daily information and giveaways.
(Schedule of events and cost below local Shelby Independent advertisers)
WHERE
1751 E Marion St.
Shelby, NC 28152
TICKETS
Gate Admission:
● Adults: $10
● Children (6-12): $5
● Children (5 and under): Free
● Seniors (65+): $5
● In wheelchairs (plus one caregiver): Free
Pre-sale Unlimited Rideband/Armband: $25 (NOTE: Unlimited rideband does not include gate admission; must purchase before Sept. 25)
Purchase: ClevelandCountyFair.com
PARKING
Parking is free at the fairgrounds.
Paid parking is across the street at Cleveland County Community College.
ATTRACTIONS
Majestic Spectacular Thrill Show: Experience the thrill of world-class stunts, circus acts and live entertainment in one unforgettable show.
Demolition Derby: Feel the roar of the engines and the crunch of metal at the heart-pounding Demolition Derby.
K9s in Flight: A high-energy Frisbee dog show that’s thrilled crowds at major sporting events and festivals nationwide performed by incredible rescue dogs.
Ackmonsters Chainsaw Art: Ackmonster’s Chainsaw Art carves jaw-dropping sculptures right before your eyes.
The Magic of Lance Gifford: A fast-paced show filled with stunning illusions, mind-bending magic, and family-friendly fun.
HOURS
Thursday, Sept. 25
Gates: 3 -11 p.m.
Exhibit Hall: 3 - 9 p.m.
Midway: 4 -11 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 26
Gates: 3-11 p.m.
Exhibit Hall: 3-10 p.m.
Midway: 4-11 p.m
Saturday, Sept. 27
Gates: 9 a.m.-11 p.m.
Exhibit Hall: 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
Midway: 10 a.m.-11 p.m.
Sunday, Sept. 28
Gates: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
Exhibit Hall: Noon-9 p.m.
Midway: Noon-11 p.m.
Monday, Sept. 29
Gates: 3-11 p.m.
Exhibit Hall: 3-9 p.m.
Midway: 4-11 p.m.
Tuesday, Sept. 30
Gates for Seniors: Noon
Gates: 3 p.m.-11 p.m.
Exhibit Hall: Noon-9 p.m.
Midway: 4-11 p.m.
Wednesday, Oct. 1
Gates for Pre-School Kids: 9 a.m.-Noon
Special Programs for Kids: 9 a.m.-Noon
Gates: 3-9 p.m.
Exhibit Hall: 4-11 p.m.
Midway: 4-11 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 2
Gates: 3-11 p.m.
Exhibit Hall: 3-9 p.m.
Midway: 4-11 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 3
Gates: 3-11 p.m.
Exhibit Hall: 3-10 p.m.
Midway: 4-11 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 4
Gates: 9 a.m.-11 p.m.
Exhibit Hall: 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
Midway: 10 a.m.-11 p.m.
Sunday, Oct. 5
Gates: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Exhibit Hall: Noon-7 p.m.
Midway: Noon-9 p.m.
DEMOLITION DERBY
Dates: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, and Saturday, Oct. 4 (7:30 p.m.)
Children (12 and under): $8
Adult (13 years and older): $15
(Local Shelby Independent sponsors)
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