The Missouri State Fair holds some of my fondest memories. With my father, Clarence Pearce, serving as the local FFA advisor, and our local chapter charged with working the FFA Children’s Barnyard at the fair, as a child I was always involved with the State Fair. Working those 11 days was never easy, but it was rewarding and fun, a life lesson learned at an early age. I think that is one of the reasons I enjoy visiting the Missouri State Fair and taking advantage of the events it has to offer.
When the Missouri State Fair kicked off in 1901, it was a way to celebrate the agricultural bounty of the summer months, from abundant crops to hardy livestock. While these might continue to be the basic tenants of the fair, it has grown to so much more than that. It is estimated that 350,000 people will enjoy this year’s fair, which will kick off its 109th year on Aug. 11 and runs through Aug. 21, with the theme “It’s a Show-Me Thing!” The Missouri State Fair is the culmination of our county fairs. In the 31st Senatorial District, we have seen successful county fairs in Bates, Cass, Johnson, and Vernon counties. At the state fair, there will be 4-H and FFA displays, grandstand events, entertainment, the carnival, and food, but through it all one thing remains constant, that Missouri is a state we can be proud of, one that stands rooted strong in its agricultural heritage as we look forward to our future.
Today’s world is fast-paced and gaining speed. Sometimes, it is nice just to take a step back and reflect on a more relaxed way of life. The Missouri State Fair can help with that, showcasing a broad variety of goods and items produced around our state by local citizens. The Agricultural Building celebrates Missouri businesses at the AgriMissouri Market. You can sample various products that are proudly made right in our hometowns. The Home Economics Building, the Conservation Building, the Farm Bureau Building and the Floriculture Building all have exhibits and free presentations throughout the fair. In addition, exhibits and activities from the Department of Natural Resources in the Women’s Building and the presentations and learning sessions in the University of Missouri-sponsored MO-Ag Theatre await visitors.
Entertainment is never far away on the fairgrounds. There are many performances that can be seen for free at various locations. There will be a daily lumberjack show, dance groups, magic shows, music acts and acrobats. Every day is a new adventure, ready to be embarked upon, so be sure to check the schedule of events for when you plan to attend. That way you can make sure you won’t miss a thing.
I urge you and your family make the trip to Sedalia this year to enjoy all the fun and activities the state fair has to offer. Single day adult tickets are just $8, children ages 6-12 are $2, children age 5 and under are free, and seniors (age 60 and over) are $6. The fair also has special discount and promotion days to make it even more affordable for visitors, including “Five After Five” promotion Aug. 14-17, where admission is just $5 after 5:00 p.m., and a free admission day on Aug. 14 for active military and veterans (admission for their immediate family members is just $1). Please visit www.mostatefair.com for more information, schedules and daily special admission pricing.
As always, please feel free to contact me or my staff with any questions or concerns at any time. We look forward to hearing your comments and suggestions and trying to answer any questions you may have. You can reach us by phone at 866-277-0882 (toll-free) or 573-751-2272, or by fax at 573-526-7381.
Senator David Pearce serves Bates, Cass, Johnson and Vernon counties in the 31st State Senatorial District.
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