Hi Everyone,

I can’t wait to see you all this Saturday, March 29th, for NC Eat & Play’s Spring Hootenanny & Foodie Fest, presented by Cheerwine! We’re thrilled to return to the NC State Fairgrounds at the James B. Hunt Horse Complex.

We’re excited to host this event indoors at the historic Horse Complex, a beautiful venue perfect for equestrian competitions and community gatherings. Being indoors means we’re rain or shine, so come ready for fun! Food and beverages will be conveniently spread along the main concourse, making it easy to gather your favorites and find seating in the arena stands to enjoy the entertainment.

Food & Beverage Vendors

Prepare for a day filled with delicious bites from fantastic food vendors, including Andia’s Ice Cream, Backyard Hibachi, Boba Baba, Bulkogi, I Am Cookie & Sugar Company, It’s A Wrap Eatery, Iyla’s Southern Kitchen, Granchio Seafood & Pasta, Kandy Apples By K, Ole Time BBQ, Playa Bowls, Ruckus Scratch Kitchen, Sassool, Simply Crepes, Sweet Sparrow Bakeshop, and Wye Hill Brewing. And of course, we’ll have plenty of ice-cold Cheerwine to keep everyone refreshed.

For our guests 21 and over, we’ve got you covered with adult beverages! Enjoy beer tastings from Wye Hill and delicious cans of wine available for purchase from Country Water.

Get ready to kick up your boots on the arena floor!

Recommended Footwear

Please remember, when on the arena floor, we’ll be walking on packed dirt, so choose your shoes wisely! For accessibility needs, our volunteers will be available to guide you to golf carts that can take you around the venue.

Entertainment

Apex Racing Lab will be set up with their racing simulation trailer, virtual racing available for a purchase! Kids will have a blast with inflatables, including bull riding, axe throwing, bounce houses, and other fun games. Plus, look out for our special horse and wagon for photo ops and exciting crowd giveaways!

Kerry Long will be playing from 3-4:40pm. Spring Break will be playing from 3:30pm-5:30pm. And line dancing will begin around 5:30pm.

Parking Instructions

All attendees should enter at Gate H3 on Trinity Road. Our parking attendants will do their best to assist you. Parking will be available throughout the complex, and those with accessibility needs should display the required parking information for closer access.

Check In

Ticket check-in will occur at the front of the Main Arena, where our team will help you. Make sure to check your email for your ticket information and click the check-in button before arriving. Once you reach the ticket tent, show your credentials to receive your tasting tickets. If you’re 21 or older, you’ll need to present your ID at the MattressGrove tent to receive a wristband for the adult beverage area.

We appreciate your patience during check-in—it’s crucial for a smooth event experience. Once inside, you can start enjoying delicious tastings from our amazing vendors. Don’t forget to tag @nceatandplay and your favorite vendors in your photos!

Thank you for being a part of our community. Let’s make this a day to remember! I can’t wait to see you at the hootenanny!

Warmly,
Megan
Founder, NC Eat & Play