RALEIGH - For the first time in 22 years, state officials will add an extra day to the State Fair. Gates will open for a preview at 3 p.m. Oct. 16. Opening early will give fairgoers an extra day to "Take Time for a Great Time," the 2008 State Fair theme.

Prices will be reduced for the shorter day: $5 for adults and $1 for children 12 and under. Those under 6 and over 65 get in free.

Organizers anticipate that the state Department of Labor will have inspected and certified about 85 percent of the rides in time for the Oct. 16 opening. Concession stands, exhibit halls and entertainment on the fairgrounds also will be ready for the early start, according to the release.

Gates will open at 3 p.m., and the Midway and exhibit halls will open at 4 p.m. The Midway will close at midnight.

The State Fair will run Oct. 16-26 at the State Fairgrounds. For more information, visit www.ncstatefair.org.

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