2023 Missouri state fair in Sedalia

Missouri Governor Mike Parson poses with two rural Missourians at the 2023 state fair in Sedalia, as U.S. Sen. Eric Schmitt (R) looks on (August 17, 2023 photo courtesy of the governor’s Flickr page)

Missouri’s governor says about 350,000 people attended the August state fair in Sedalia, which is about a two-and-a-half percent increase from 2022.

Governor Mike Parson praises the numbers, saying that no other event showcases Missouri agriculture like the state fair.

The governor says the carnival midway was a popular destination, recording its second-highest year for revenue, with the first Saturday, Monday and Tuesday being the biggest days on record. Governor Parson also says one of the main reasons why guests attend the fair is because it is a tradition for their family.

The state Department of Agriculture (MDA) says the agriculture showcase, family-friendly attractions, fair food and drink and shopping also ranked high on why fairgoers traveled to Sedalia in August.

Missouri Lieutenant Governor Mike Kehoe says the state fair in Sedalia had record attendance on Saturday. Lt. Governor Kehoe, who’s seeking Missouri’s GOP gubernatorial nomination, joined us live on 939 the Eagle’s “Wake Up Mid-Missouri.” Kehoe has been endorsed by several commodity groups, including the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association, Missouri Corn Growers Association and Missouri Dairy. Lt. Governor Kehoe has high praise for the State Fair’s volunteer fire department in Sedalia. He says it’s the only full operating fire department for 12 days in the nation. Mr. Kehoe tells listeners that the budget signed into law by Missouri Governor Mike Parson will make several repairs to the aging fire house, which has a leaky roof and other issues. Lt. Governor Kehoe is also praising Tuesday’s drive to feed kids event at the state fair. The Missouri Department of Agriculture (MDA) says one in seven Missouri children is food insecure. Mr. Kehoe praises Bernie-based Martin Rice for donating all of the rice for tomorrow’s food packing:

Carnival rides were a big draw at this year’s Missouri state fair in Sedalia

(LISTEN): Lt. Governor Mike Kehoe discusses Missouri state fair and agriculture on “Wake Up Mid-Missouri”