After 76 Years, the Longest-Running Vendor at the North Carolina State Fair Is Leaving

**Farewell to an Icon: Charlie Barefoot & Sons to Depart North Carolina State Fair After 76 Years**

**Raleigh, North Carolina** – In a move that marks the end of an era, Charlie Barefoot & Sons, a family-operated hot dog stand, has announced its withdrawal from the North Carolina State Fair after an impressive 76-year run. The stand, which has been a staple of the fair since its inception in 1949, posted the news on its Facebook page, eliciting heartfelt responses from generations of fairgoers who grew up enjoying its culinary offerings.

In their emotional announcement, owners Joe and Billy Barefoot expressed that this decision was one of the most challenging they have ever faced. “After 76 unforgettable years at the North Carolina State Fair, we have made the heartbreaking decision that we will not be attending the 2026 NC State Fair,” they stated, citing health issues compounded by the realities of aging.

Founded by Charlie Barefoot, affectionately known as “The Hotdog Man,” along with his wife Leone, “The Original Fry Queen,” the family’s venture quickly became known for its famous footlong hot dogs and Polish sausages. The legacy of this beloved vendor has marked the fair as not just an annual event but a significant aspect of the Barefoot family’s life, as they welcomed returning visitors year after year.

Leah, Charlie’s granddaughter, reflected on her cherished memories of her time at the stand, recalling moments as a child when she helped serve French fries to customers. “Not many families get to do this,” she remarked, showcasing the sense of pride and belonging that came with their attendance at the fair.

The legacy of Charlie Barefoot & Sons was one of connection and community, with the owners acknowledging their gratitude towards generations of families who made their hot dogs a part of their fair traditions. “We have felt the loss of loyal customers over the years,” they noted in their post, adding an expression of appreciation for their families and friends who supported their journey.

Heartwarming messages poured in from fans of the stand following the announcement. One devoted customer shared that her husband would consume an astonishing seven feet of hot dogs during a fair day, cementing the place the stand held in their lives. Another wrote, “Charlie Barefoot & Sons was always our first AND last stop at the fair. Absolutely THE best part!” Such testimonials highlight the significant impact the stand has had on the fair experience for countless visitors.

The sense of nostalgia was palpable among commenters, with many reminiscing about how the hot dog stand had become a family tradition passed down through generations. “For all these years, your stand was the FIRST stop at the fair for my family! Now my oldest does the same for his little family,” one customer reflected, illustrating the profound bond that formed around the shared experience of visiting the stand.

While the closure of Charlie Barefoot & Sons signifies a loss for the North Carolina State Fair, it is not the first time the event has faced scrutiny. Last year, the fair made headlines due to a terrifying incident when a ride malfunctioned, leaving passengers suspended 100 feet in the air. Fortunately, the riders were safely lowered to the ground, though the incident highlighted concerns around safety at the fairgrounds.

Despite the challenges, the tradition of the North Carolina State Fair continues, with many eager to see what the future holds for the event without one of its most storied vendors. As Charlie Barefoot & Sons prepares for its last appearance, the memories and legacy created over nearly eight decades will undoubtedly endure, remaining a cherished part of the North Carolina State Fair’s history.

As the Barefoot family bids goodbye, they leave behind a legacy steeped in nostalgia and community spirit, reminding us all of the simple joy found in food and family traditions at the State Fair.