The 2013 North Carolina State Fair kicks off a 10-day homecoming celebration for the state of North Carolina starting Thursday.

The fair’s theme will emphasize the state’s agriculture, arts and culture with food, family fun and diverse exhibits today.

“Our theme this year is ‘North Carolina’s Homecoming,’” said Sarah Ray, a public information officer for the North Carolina State Fair. “To us, homecomings are all about fun, fellowship, pot-lucks, reunions and families. That’s how we see the fair, as one big homecoming for North Carolina.”

According to Ray, fairgoers are anticipating the Flower and Garden Show, the Heritage Circle and the Got to Be N.C. Agriculture Exhibit.

The Flower and Garden Show will have more than 90 demonstrations, which will feature gardens grown by North Carolina organizations.  Experts will also offer advice about topics such as proper plant care and pumpkin carving.  

At the Heritage Circle, visitors can enjoy homemade ice cream, listen to bluegrass and watch craftsmen demonstrating their trades. 

“The [Got to Be N.C. Agriculture] exhibit is full of locally grown and locally produced food products on display with free samples, goods for purchase and plenty of prizes,” Ray said. “More than 20 local vendors will participate in the exhibit throughout the course of the fair.”

The fair will also feature attractions such as the Gantry Bike, which is an oversized mechanical stage, and Agriculture Today.

Scotty McCreery, Sister Hazel, MercyMe and the Eli Young Band will also perform at the fair’s concert series.

Deans Eatman, a sophomore in agricultural science who went to the fair eight times last year, said he is looking forward to the concerts, competitions—especially the largest watermelon and pumpkin contests—and the food. 

The fair now features two new rides and a new mobile app has been created so visitors can make their own schedule, view maps of the grounds and even search for food and rides. 

Guests who use the park- and-ride method will see a redesigned Gate One area, which will be used as a bus transit zone. 

“I’d definitely suggest that option for N.C. State students,” Ray said. “You can catch the CAT bus at designated spots all along Hillsborough Street and not have to worry about parking.”

For those interested in exploring the fair more than once, there are a few discount days to make it cheaper, including Preview Day and Food Lion Hunger Relief Day. 

“The daily schedules vary throughout the week, so there are new things to see every day,” Eatman said. “I think that the only way to get around to all of the different sections of the fair ground is to go more than once.”