August 15, 2011

Missouri State Fair Off to a Strong Start

The state's premier agricultural showcase offers family fun in Sedalia through Aug. 21

The Missouri State Fair is proving to be the destination of choice for many Missouri families. Preliminary attendance numbers are up from last year's numbers, as are entries in the Fair's livestock competitions, for each of the first four days of the Fair.

"Each year hundreds of thousands of Missourians enter through the gates of the Missouri State Fair seeking affordable family entertainment that will create the type of memories that they will carry for a lifetime. And this summer is proving to be no different," said Gov. Jay Nixon. "No matter your destination on the grounds this year at the Missouri State Fair, you will be able to grow some great memories."

A sell-out crowd for the concert with Jason Aldean, Chris Young and Thompson Square on Saturday, Aug. 13 contributed to preliminary gate attendance nearly 30 percent higher than the first Saturday of the 2010 Fair. Livestock numbers are up more than ten percent compared to the same time during last year's event, as exhibitors check in and show their cattle, horses, swine, sheep, goats, poultry and other stock. Thousands of military and their families gathered on Sunday, Aug. 14 for an official honor ceremony to pay tribute to Vietnam veterans. More than 100 motorcyclists from the Patriot Guard Riders kicked off the official ceremony.

"The State Fair will continue to be the premiere agriculture showcase in Missouri and we will work diligently at making it the economical choice for Missourians seeking quality entertainment that is steeped in tradition, heritage and family values," said Missouri State Fair Director Mark Wolfe. "We have something for everyone at the Fair, and look forward to everyone exploring the many opportunities found throughout the grounds this year."

More than 9,000 exhibits are also on display in the 4-H and FFA buildings, highlighting the skills and talents of Missouri's young people in horticulture, wood and metal working, photography, culinary arts and other crafts.

The 2011 Missouri State Fair continues through Aug. 21 in Sedalia. For more information, visit Mo.Gov.