FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
THURSDAY, SEPT. 17, 2009

2009 NC Mountain State Fair posting increased attendance levels

Contact:            Jim Knight, Media Director
(828) 687-1414 x222

FLETCHER--Strong advance ticket sales for the 2009 NC Mountain State Fair through all outlets are adding to solid ticket sales at the gates this year. Advance sales through Ingles stores, on-line sales and walk-up sales at the WNC Farmers Market, WNC Ag Center and a booth at the NC Apple Festival raised total advance sales by 23 percent above 2008 levels.

Attendance levels through Wednesday, Sept. 16 were up over 4,900 visitors from 2008 levels, with strong crowds expected tonight for one-price rides and tomorrow night for the one-price Friday Night Stampede.

"I believe the increase is due to two solid reasons," said Fair Manager Matt Buchanan. "We offer substantial discounts on the advance ticket prices, and folks recognize the overall entertainment value the Mountain State Fair represents in today's economy, especially when we feature special pricing."

Special deals the second half of the fair run will translate into savings for fair patrons. Thursday, Sept. 17 will feature one-price rides for $18. Senior citizens are admitted free on Friday, Sept. 18, and the Friday Night Stampede that evening will feature gate admission and unlimited rides for one price from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Yesterday, fair patrons brought almost 10,000 pounds of food for MANNA Food Bank, trading food donations for fair admission. Tonight, Christian Music performers 33 Miles take the stage at 7:30 p.m., with concert tickets still available for $5.

"Don't let a little rain keep you away from the fair," advocates fair manager Matt Buchanan. "The addition of new permanent buildings this year adds to the inventory of indoor exhibit space, and our paved parking lots and walkways help keep fairgoers dry."
Complete fair information and daily schedules are available at www.mountainfair.org or by calling (828) 687-1414.

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