Field Work Friday – The Got to Be NC Festival

We’ve been studying the state of NC this year, and so when we heard about the Got to Be NC Festival in Raleigh, we knew it was something we had to check out.  Set up similarly to the State Fair, this event is smaller and most exhibits are free. 

We started off by visiting the Got to Be NC food building.  Dozens of food vendors from all around the state brought their best products to showcase.  The vast majority offered samples for free, and many offered discounts on full-size products.  Wine and barbecue sauce ruled the building, but there were also ice cream vendors, beer crafters, candy makers, beekeepers, granola bakers, and many more.  Walking around and tasting everything was definitely a great way to begin the day – and to learn about the best products that come from this state.

Then we headed outside to the Food Bizarre.  Featuring odd and unusual foods that can be found in North Carolina, you could purchase a small dish of any of them for only $2.  We decided to try the frog leg with rabbit relish and the pork-filled doughnuts.  We all decided that frog legs really do taste a lot like chicken.

The trick pony show was neat.  This horse was a wild mustang captured a few years ago.  He has since learned how to put hula hoops over his head, sit like a puppy, and take off his own saddle blanket.  He was obviously smart and cared about his trainer.

Pig racing is surprisingly popular.  We settled into bleachers in a small arena and watched pigs, ducks, small goats, and geese race around the track for treats.  Who knew?

My Little Man’s favorite show was the Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show.  He enjoyed it so much that we saw it twice.  The log rolling was pretty neat …

but his favorite was the ax-throwing competition – and Anthony Anderson showed up for the second show!  He was a very good sport.

This was another event that was new to me – antique tractor-pulling!  These tractors were pulling this extremely heavy sled, and whichever one could go the furthest won.  It was a turtle kind of race, but it was a beautiful day, and it was definitely an experience.

The festival also featured rides, games, food vendors, fireworks, and lots of animal shows.  We caught a bit of everything before heading home.  It was definitely worth the trip – and the kids are already talking about going next year.

What’s your favorite way to learn about state culture?