Mountain State Fair sets new attendance records

The gates closed Sept. 16 on the 14th Annual N.C. Mountain State Fair with a new record attendance of 187,819 during the 10-day run. This surpassed the previous record of 186,909 set in 2003.

“Despite a day-long soaking rain on the second Friday, we were able to top the old record and I want to express my thanks to all the people of Western North Carolina, sponsors, exhibitors, participants and employees for a successful Fair,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler.

The 2007 fair set four one-day attendance records, with record crowds on opening day, Sept. 7; Monday, Sept. 10; Saturday, Sept. 15; and Sunday, Sept. 16. The records include a new single-day record set on Saturday, Sept. 15, when 35,237 fairgoers streamed through the gates.

Plans are already under way for the 2008 Mountain State Fair to be held Sept. 5-14. Construction on a new arts and crafts building is expected to start soon, but will likely not be ready for next year’s fair. Construction will also be under way on a barn renovation project and relocation of the outdoor riding ring in the lower portion of the grounds near Davis Arena.

Profits generated by the fair will be used for improvements to the WNC Ag Center that will benefit the fair and year-round use of the facility for horse shows, trade shows, motorcycle events, car shows and more.