Earth, Wind & Fire never performed at Dorton Arena, but The Jackson 5, Dolly Parton, and the Beach Boys all performed at the saddle-shaped arena at the fairgrounds. In a recent quiz, only 9% of respondents got this one right.
Although most concerts didn’t happen during the NC State Fair, Dorton Arena hosted legendary music acts throughout the ‘60s and ‘70s. Is it time to bring live music back to the arena?
Fun fact: Chapel Hill photographer Avery Danziger has captured moments at the fair since the ‘70s, and his photos provide an inside look as to how the fair has changed. Read our conversation with Danziger from 2022 and take a peek at some of his iconic state fair photography over the years.
Test yourself with more Raleigh tidbits like Dorton Arena + the NC State Fairgrounds in our guide to local landmarks.
