For the Reporter

September 2016 will mark the beginning of many events in the Pacific Northwest, including the start of the school year, youth sports – and a longer schedule for the Washington State Fair.

The fair will kick off the Friday of the 2016 Labor Day weekend, and end the last Sunday of the month, providing more opportunities to take in this family tradition. “We understand the busy schedule of many families. Adding another weekend will make it easier for families to keep the Fair a high-priority event,” said Kent Hojem, the fair’s chief executive officer.

In a multiyear study of major fairs, the fair’s board of directors found lengthening fair schedules was often associated with increased satisfaction of fair guests, a boost in attendance and greater benefits for fair vendors and partners over time.

“Achieving high satisfaction and our business goals allow us to thrive as a private, non-profit organization devoted to education, family and fun,” Hojem said.

During September 2016, the fair will be closed on all Tuesdays. The midweek closures will relieve traffic during three work/school days, make it easier for Fair vendors and concessionaires to restock and exhibitors to refresh their displays. Fair participants and employees also will benefit from a day of rest.

The fFair started in 1900 and now welcomes more than one million guests each fall to the single-largest attended event in the state.

For more information, visit www.thefair.com.