AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
Of all the many fried wonders found at the North Carolina State Fair, one vendor served up the golden goods for nearly 70 years.
Read more Did Rudy Pankow Return in ‘Outer Banks’ Series Finale After JJ’s Death?
Al’s French Fries, the most famous fry shack at the fair, will not be at the fairgrounds for 2026, the owners announced Thursday night.
“After many difficult conversations and a great deal of reflection, we have made the heartbreaking decision that Al’s French Fries will no longer be a vendor at the North Carolina State Fair,” the Beckwith family said in a statement on Facebook. “This was not a decision we expected to make, and it certainly wasn’t one we wanted to make.”
The statement didn’t specify a reason for ending its decades-long run at the fair, but noted that Al’s plans to continue attending smaller events.
Al’s French Fries is named for its founder “Big Al” Beckwith, who first launched the french fry cart in 1959.
The simple hand-cut fries became a tradition for generations of fairgoers, served in a paper tray, with only ketchup, seasoning salt and malt vinegar as toppings. There was even a spritz bottle of malt vinegar for those preferring a lighter touch.
Read more Michelle Pfeiffer Clears Up Rumors That She’s Retiring From Hollywood
Beckwith passed away in 2004, but his family continued to operate Al’s French Fries, continuing its legacy as a fair mainstay. Though many vendors serve french fries, often adorned with chili and cheese, legions of fry-lovers sought out Al’s each year, and introduced loved ones to its particular magic.
“For 69 years, we have had the privilege of serving generations of North Carolina families,” the Beckwith family said in a statement. “We’ve watched grandparents bring their grandchildren, children grow up and return with families of their own, and friendships form across the counter. Customers became familiar faces, and many of those familiar faces became friends.”
With the 2026 fair only two months away, the loss of an iconic vendor will deal the latest blow to the annual festival of fry.
The North Carolina State Fair has lost several of its oldest vendors in recent years. Hot dog vendor Charlie Barefoot & Sons announced earlier this year that it too would end its fair run after more than 70 years. In 2022, the Cary Methodist Church stopped selling its biscuits and last year the fair announced it would remove its old Restaurant Row building of vendors.
“Most importantly, we want to thank you,” Al’s French Fries said in its Facebook statement. “Thank you for every order of fries, every conversation, every family tradition, and every year you chose to spend a small part of your fair experience with us. Your support has meant more than words can ever express.”
Read more Sometimes, Raleigh Gen Zers just need a little treat. What are they buying?