Carolina Balloon Festival (Oct. 17-19) - Hot air balloons and more in Statesville. North Carolina State Fair (Oct. 16-26) - This annual event features deep fried food and tons of carnival rides.

RALEIGH, N.C.— The North Carolina State Fair first came to Raleigh in the 1850s. Back then, dazzling lights, fireworks, giant stuffed animals and wacky fair foods weren't yet on the menu.

State inspectors began checking each ride on Tuesday before the North Carolina State Fair opens later this week ... and ...