The 2023 North Dakota State Fair made headlines with a remarkable increase in attendance, soaring to an all-time high of 356,534 visitors, up by an impressive 13% from the previous year's numbers. Fair officials announced this exciting news on Monday, expressing their happiness at the overwhelming response.
The carnival, in collaboration with Crabtree Amusements, saw a notable 8% increase in visitors, providing families and thrill-seekers with a thrilling experience filled with exciting rides and attractions.
The Grandstand concerts proved to be major crowd-pullers as well, with some performances being sold out to capacity. The highly anticipated Jelly Roll concert on Saturday, July 22, witnessed a packed audience, with a full house of 18,000 music enthusiasts enjoying an unforgettable evening.
Other Grandstand concerts also saw impressive numbers, with stars like Ludacris and T-Pain drawing 14,016 attendees, Eric Church captivating 16,505 fans, Joe Nichols charming 6,582 attendees, and Whiskey Myers enthralling 7,226 fans.
The Bulls and Broncs events at the arena, held on Monday and Tuesday, and the Ranch Rodeo on Wednesday and Thursday were huge hits, attracting enthusiastic crowds. The Indian Horse Relay also wowed audiences with its thrilling performances.
The State Fair Center was bustling with excitement as the 4-H, FFA, and Open class exhibits filled the halls, showcasing the talent and hard work of participants. Livestock competitions featuring goats, sheep, swine, dairy beef, rabbits, and horses added to the agricultural charm of the fair.
The free stages at the fair were one of its most notable features and were extremely well-liked. The majestic Budweiser Clydesdales, the daring The Birdman and I Flip, the hilarious Mad Chad, the spellbinding MHA Nation Dancers, the thrilling Daryl's Racing Pigs, the mesmerizing Los Moralitos Circus, and the educational Fur Traders Rendezvous and Game and Fish Outdoor Skills Park all wowed the audience.
The Food Frenzy at the fair saw some fierce competition among vendors. The winning vendors, Flounders, Windsor Waffles, Sue Sue’s Concessions, and Old Tyme Kettle Korn left fairgoers delighted and satisfied with their delectable offerings.
Commercial and food vendors alike reported higher sales, indicating a successful fair for both businesses and visitors.
Photo Credit: North Dakota State Fair
Categories: North Dakota, Rural Lifestyle