2012 Missouri State Fair Attendance Shows Increase from Previous Year

SEDALIA, MO. – Governor Jay Nixon announced today (September 21) that attendance for the 2012 Missouri State Fair saw increased by more than 10,000 over last year’s numbers. Final attendance numbers for the 11-day event confirm that more than 353,700 people attended this year’s fair, up from just over 343,000 in 2011.

“The events, the attractions, the food and the long-awaited break in the hot weather all added up to draw folks from all over Missouri and the Midwest to our State Fair,” Gov. Nixon said. “I want to thank all of the hardworking farm families throughout Missouri who came together to make the 2012 State Fair Missouri’s premier agricultural event.”

This year’s Fair recognized several other anniversaries, in addition to the celebration of the 110th Fair, including National 4-H (110 years), John Deere (175 years), Missouri Cattleman’s Association (100 years), Missouri State Parks (95 years), Missouri Department of Conservation (75 years), Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives (75 years), Missouri Travel Council (50 years), and Missouri State Fair Youth In Agriculture (20 years).

The Fair’s opening day parade included entries celebrating the history and traditions of those organizations, as well as the New Bloomfield High School Marching Band, which also took part in the first Fair parade in 1901.

“The Missouri State Fair continues to be a platform that fosters growth among Missouri youth,” Missouri State Fair Director Mark Wolfe said.  “This year’s showcase was evidence that both Missouri youth and Missouri agriculture are strong and the tradition of outstanding livestock at our Fair continues."

The 2012 Missouri State Fair included more than 28,000 livestock and competitive entries and involved more than 4,000 Missouri 4-H and FFA youth participants. Every Missouri county was represented at the Fair, through competitive entries, special exhibits and events.

“The State Fair continues to honor its agricultural roots, while offering something for everyone,” said Director of Agriculture Dr. Jon Hagler.  “The State Fair is an outstanding opportunity for all Missourians to connect with our past as well as the bright future of agriculture in our state.”

The 2013 Missouri State Fair will be held Aug. 8-18 in Sedalia.

This news release was provided by Scott Holste, Press Secretary for Missouri Governor Jay Nixon.