More than 85,000 people attended the Got to Be N.C. Festival, May 21-23 at the State Fairgrounds.

Despite periodic thunderstorms, attendees enjoyed a variety of North Carolina agricultural products, antique farm equipment, carnival rides and live music. The festival, presented by the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, also featured the N.C. Food and Wine Expo, pig races, a draft horse pull, classic car show, Harley-Davidson motorcycle ride-in, tractor pull and lawnmower racing.

“We are overwhelmed by the area’s support of the festival and of North Carolina agriculture,” said Jim Knight, festival manager. “Planning is already under way to make next year’s event even better, and we will announce those dates soon.”

Several competitions were held during the free three-day event, including the Carolina Pig Jig, bluegrass competition and antique tractor showcase.

Ken and Patti Elder’s 1914 Sawyer Massey was selected as best of show for the prior to 1930 category.

At the Carolina Pig Jig barbecue competition, more than 3,000 people sampled all-you-can-eat barbecue by 28 teams representing Masonic lodges from across the state. This year’s Pig Jig was the most successful fundraiser in the history of the event, raising more than $9,000 for the Central Children’s Home and Masonic Homes for Children of Oxford.

Visit www.ncagfest.com.