S.C. State Fair closes with a Blue-Ribbon year
October 26, 2015
COLUMBIA, SC – The 2015 South Carolina State Fair has finished the year “SC Strong”. The fair welcomed 429,947 visitors, including record setting numbers on the first Sunday and second Thursday.
“We faced new challenges preparing for the fair in wake of the tragic flooding,” said General Manager Gary Goodman. “However, we felt it was our duty to the community to open and provide the rides, entertainment, and foods so many look forward to all year long.”
The fair designated Oct. 22 as #SCStrong Day to recognize first responders, community organizations, and various volunteers for stepping up to assist those in need during the floods. Additionally, the fair is donating approximately $200,000 to flood relief efforts with the net proceeds from this year’s parking fees. Newsboys and Cole Swindell, who performed in the grandstand during this year’s fair, also donated approximately $10,000 to Harvest Hope Food Bank, which was instrumental in providing food for flood victims.
This year’s State Fair presented a wide range of new attractions such as “Enter the Dinosaurs”, which was wildly popular. “We always strive to provide something new and engaging for our patrons each year,” said Assistant General Manager Nancy Smith.
Fairgoers also enjoyed the full benefits of the fair’s recently completed construction project with safer entry at the new North Gate and shopping inside the Goodman Building.
“We’re very pleased with the wonderful turnout,” said Goodman. “Although we faced difficulties such as an incident that left a teenager injured, we saw more families enjoying the fair together, we saw more diversity, and we welcomed more out-of-town visitors from around the state and beyond.”
Goodman points to Columbia’s sense of community as a big factor in the State Fair’s success this year. “We look forward to building more relationships and continuing to foster efforts to improve our community in coming years.
The South Carolina State Fair is a self-supported, nonprofit organization dedicated to educating South Carolina’s young adults, with over $300,000 in scholarships awarded annually. For more information about the South Carolina State Fair, its programs or licensing opportunities, contact Nancy Smith at 803-799-3387 ext. 116 or [email protected].
