Support these Western NC artisans + Helene storm victims at 2024 NC State Fair

Communities across the Carolinas are stepping up to support those impacted by Hurricane Helene with donation drives, storm relief t-shirts from local businesses and even benefit concerts from big stars.

As relief efforts ramp up, you’ll also be able to support storm victims at this year’s N.C. State Fair.

The state’s largest annual event returns to the capital Oct. 17-27.

Here’s how you can show your support while there.

N.C. State Fair Cares fundraiser

One week before the fairgrounds officially open for the 11-day event, the state fair team has launched the “N.C. State Fair Cares” donation tab in support of those in Western North Carolina..

“Many people have asked about doing something for Western North Carolina and this will give those who would like to donate an easy way to do that when they purchase their advance ticket,” Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler said in a statement. “The need is great in Western North Carolina and MANNA FoodBank will continue to work to meet those needs despite the setback.”

Similar to a fundraiser following Hurricane Florence, all proceeds will be distributed to the MANNA FoodBank of Asheville. The food bank, which was also a former recipient of the Mountain State Fair’s annual canned food drive, lost its distribution warehouse after Helene swept through the region as a tropical storm.

Donations can be contributed online for those buying tickets on the state fair’s website with the option to give to the fundraiser link before you check out with the option to give $5-$25.

The donation drive isn’t the only way to support those affected by the storm at the state fair this year.

Support for Western NC artists

One of the most popular attractions, the Village of Yesteryear, will return with dozens of artists and craftsmen creating handmade goods and crafts at the fairgrounds.

Of the more than 75 artisans coming out for fairgoers to see them in action, many are from Western North Carolina, and the State Fair has confirmed that they will still be able to attend.

Here’s a list of some of the member crafters you can support as the cleanup continues in their communities:

The Village of Yesteryear will be open at the N.C. State Fair from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day. On opening day, Oct. 17, it’ll be open at noon. You can find more information online at ncstatefair.org.

This story was originally published October 11, 2024 at 11:41 AM.

Chyna Blackmon

The Charlotte Observer

Chyna Blackmon was a service journalism reporter for The Charlotte Observer. A native of the Carolinas, she grew up in Columbia, SC, and graduated from Queens University of Charlotte. She’s also worked in local television news in Charlotte, NC, and Richmond, VA. Support my work with a digital subscription