For the Reporter
The Washington State Fair closed its gates Sunday after a 17-day run in which more than one million guests attended the event at the Puyallup Fairgrounds, according to fair officials.
This year marks an end to an era of the 17-day fair. Starting in 2016, the fair will operate over four weekends, starting on the Friday of Labor Day weekend. The dates are Sept. 2-25, with the fair closed on Tuesdays.
“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 Washington State 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 Tuesday 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 Washington State Fair started in 1900. Over the years, the days of the fair has operated have changed, based on consumer trends. When the fair started in 1900 it was a three-day event. In 1941 it was held seven days, changing to nine days the next year. In 1978 the fair increased days due to popularity, becoming a 17-day event.
The fair is the only agricultural fair in the state not supported by taxes. Entirely self-funded, the fair generates significant economic activity.
According to fair officials, the nonprofit organization paid more than $880,000 taxes and fees to the City of Puyallup, almost $1.2 million in property taxes to Pierce County and almost $120,000 for services to Central Pierce Fire and Rescue in 2014.
Revenue for the fair in 2014 was $28.6 million for fairs in fall and spring and other events at the fairgrounds. Expenses totaled $26.3 plus spending on buildings, grounds and equipment was $3.7 million. In addition, the fair contributed more than $1 million to youth-oriented educational programs each year, officials said.
In addition to the organization’s 100 year-round employees, approximately 7,500 people found temporary jobs at the fair, officials said.
