State Fair Officials : ‘We had a Great Fair”

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Columbia, S.C. (WOLO) — After a 12-day run, the State Fair wrapped up on Sunday and State Fair officials are calling it a great success despite challenges prior to opening day due to historic floods. “All in all, we were extremely pleased with the fair, we had great fair,” said Assistant General Manager Nancy Smith. Smith said overall attendance numbers were down this year, but they did have two record breaking days. One of the record-breaking days was South Carolina Strong day last Thursday to honor the flood relief efforts across the state. “I really think people were ready for a break, ready for a distraction and they know everything the fair has to offer,” said Smith. This year the fair is donating nearly $200,000 to flood relief efforts with the revenue from the parking fees. Fair officials say it‘s their way to give back to a community who has given them so much. “You don‘t come here and stay for 146 years and continue to grow and continue for folks to appreciate you if you don‘t give something back,” explained Smith. However, despite an overall successful 12 day run, the fair did have one tragedy strike. Deputies say on Saturday night a 15-year old boy was shot and injured. Fair officials say guests do go through security upon entering including metal detectors and bag searches but going forward they plan to evaluate their security procedures. “Every year we have to do a little bit more and tweak some things and just make sure everything is as safe as we can possibly make it for our patrons,” said Smith.