Big crowds, more traffic expected on first full day of State Fair

Other events include bluegrass music displays, folk festival happenings in Dorton Arena, a "Kiss My Grits" recipe contest, flower demos, the official opening ceremony and a bluegrass performance by Old Habits Trio.

Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for ages 6 to 12. Students can take advantage of a $5 admission ticket by presenting their school identification card or recent report card at the ticket booth.

Unlimited ride wrist bands will also be available from 10 a.m. to closing. Those bands cost $34.

Clouds could move across the area Friday as a cold front pushes through the state, but no rainfall is expected to dampen the fun. Highs will be in the low 70s during the afternoon before dropping into the 50s by the time fireworks light up the sky.

Heavier traffic is expected in and around the State Fairgrounds on the final day of the work week, and several shuttle buses from downtown Raleigh, Capital Boulevard or Cary Towne Center can help fairgoers avoid traffic and parking hassles.

GoRaleigh offers non-stop shuttle service from two park-and-ride locations and service from downtown Raleigh along Hillsborough Street during the fair, which will be held Oct. 15-25.

The shuttles drop off and pick up passengers from Gate 1 at the State Fairgrounds.

A round trip costs $4 for adults, $2 for those 65 and older o with disabilities. Children under 40 inches tall ride free with a paying passenger.

Shuttle passes are available for sale at each park-and-ride location. Riders on the Hillsborough Street route must have exact change.