Hi Everyone,

I can’t wait to see you all this Saturday, September 28th, for NC Eat & Play’s Fall Hootenanny & Foodie Fest, presented by Cheerwine! We’re thrilled to make our debut at the NC State Fairgrounds at the James B. Hunt Horse Complex. This event marks the beginning of even bigger hootenannies we’re planning for 2025!

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.

Prepare for a day filled with delicious bites from fantastic food vendors, including The Butcher’s Market, Clyde Cooper’s Barbeque, Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing, Iyla’s Southern Kitchen, Sassool, Kandy Apples by K, Andia’s Ice Cream, Salt & Lime Cabo Grill, Bulkogi, Curry In A Hurry, Biggby Coffee, and many more! 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, plus serving a signature cocktail in partnership with Southern Distilling Company. Don’t miss our annual Rosé In The Hay, featuring small Rosé tastings and cans available for purchase from Country Water.

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

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.

Grassomatics will take the stage at 3 PM, followed by the Buckles & Boots Line Dancers.

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!

Parking Instructions: All attendees should enter at Gate H4 on Trinity Road. Please be aware that there may be some traffic congestion due to the NC State Football game nearby, but 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.

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 A&M Premier Roofing and Construction 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!

Thanks to our wonderful sponsors, such as Cheerwine, A&M Premier, and the State Fair, who made this event possible.

Here’s a little secret—we’re already planning even bigger hootenannies next year!

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