Students will have extra time to visit the State Fair this year following the decision to extend the event to 11 days. 

The one-day extension will mark the first time in 22 years that State Fair officials have increased the program’s length, according to the fair’s Web site. 

Heather Vaughn, a freshman in engineering, said she thought this would benefit students who want to visit.

“This will provide more opportunity for students,” Vaughn said. “If they can’t go due to time conflicts then this will help them out.”

Vaughn said she plans the fair, which will showcase agriculture, rides and music when it rolls into town today at 3 p.m. 

Brianna Pasko, a freshman in biochemistry, said traveling to the fair may prove difficult for students.

“I’m sure more students would go if they were offered transportation or if transportation already available was publicized,” Pasko said.

While arriving at the fair may be difficult, Hank Howie, a junior in history education, said he the State Fair helps boost the Raleigh economy while providing individuals with an opportunity to experience all that North Carolina has to offer.

“The State Fair is a great way to showcase cultural aspects unique to our state and university,” Howie said.

Howie will be attending this year’s State Fair with the intent of earning some extra credit for one of his classes, he said. One of his professors issued him a pass to get into the fair for free as he helps run one of the fair’s many exhibits.

“I’m going to help with the honey bee booth answering questions about bee biology and beekeeping,” Howie said. “This is a great way to supplement our learning and a great time to talk with experienced beekeepers.”

Zachary Hester, a junior in aerospace engineering, believes that the State Fair is beneficial to many State students due to the University’s agricultural and mechanical history.

“It’s really convenient having everything from across the state come together,” Hester said. “I imagine it’s even better for people in the agriculture and marketing majors.”

Hester, who will be paying a visit to the State Fair for only the second time in his life, plans on utilizing the resources available at the fair to enhance his understanding of topics taught in his Honors Seminar, history through cotton.

“I’m going to the fair to look at antique cotton machinery, modern cotton harvesting products and just cotton in general,” he said.

According to Hester, the fair can educate its visitors in a way that’s interesting.

“You get to see the actual farm equipment and see how things are made,” Hester said. “It’s much easier than having to go all the way out to a farm or museum and… you can have fun afterwards.”

This year’s State Fair will feature amusement rides from Powers Great American Midway as well as events such as concerts, dance competitions, animal shows and more, its Web site said. The cost of gate admission for students is $7.00 and the fair will conclude Oct. 26.