East Texas State Fair Draws over 242,000

TYLER — East Texas Fair staffers are pleased with response to this year’s event, which wrapped up last weekend. “This is the first time in my career I have seen attendance at a Fair finish almost identical to the previous year,” said John Sykes, President of The Park of East Texas, Inc. “This year’s attendance is within a few people of being the same number as 2010. Total attendance in 2011 is 242,163.”

Per capita spending increased. North American Midway Entertainment set an all time record for ride revenue. Most established food vendors reported record income. “While attendance remained flat, it is obvious that those who came spent more money once inside,” stated Sykes. “We again saw more families and children at the Fair.” The East Texas State Fair also saw increases in livestock show exhibits and the addition of more retail vendors adding to the commercial exhibitor line-up. Officials say the trend of adding retail vendors to The Marketplace inside Harvey Convention Center will continue, giving fairgoers the opportunity to purchase mattresses, jewelry and numerous other items while increasing sales tax revenues for the area.

It is estimated the East Texas State Fair generates over $20 million in economic impact for the region. The Fair’s gross income is over $2 million during the 11-day event. “It is stirring to see an increase in spending during a time when much of the country is still suffering through a troubled economy,” said Sykes. “We will now take the successes of this year’s event and improve on them as we plan for the 2012 East Texas State Fair.” The 97th East Texas State Fair is scheduled for September 20-30, 2012, at the East Texas State Fairgrounds.