Tens of thousands of visitors from across the state gathered at the 2024 SD State Fair to enjoy six days of family fun, incredible entertainment, and timeless traditions. From exciting live music performances to mouth-watering fair food, the SD State Fair continues to be a cherished destination where friends and families come together to create lifelong memories.
The Fair, which ran from August 28 – September 2, offered family friendly attractions, six stages of entertainment, thrilling carnival rides, world class livestock shows, agricultural education, and endless shopping opportunities.
Youth Participation and Education
- Nearly 1,500 exhibitors entered more than 8,000 exhibits in open class livestock and non-livestock competitions.
- The Arts & Education Building hosted more exhibits than last year with 6,300 education exhibits being displayed.
- 9,515 4-H display exhibits, livestock exhibits, and youth in action entries participated in the Fair.
- 367 FFA exhibitors showcased over 975 entries.
- Over 600 students and teachers representing 35 schools participated in South Dakota’s Largest Classroom.
- Nearly 50 schools and libraries participated in the Read and Win program sponsored by Ag Performance and Agri-Dynamics, handing out 8,000 youth daily admission gate passes to young readers.
Attendance and Economic Impact
- 186,255 guests passed through the gates, a four percent increase over 2023, while nearly 2,000 campers filled the fairground’s campsites, setting the stage for a highly successful State Fair.
- More than $3.2 million was spent by fairgoers on goods, services, and concessions.
- The Fair generated over $266,000 in tax revenue, a 20 percent increase over 2023.
Improving the Fairgrounds
- A groundbreaking was held for The SHED on Thursday, August 29. The SHED will be the new home for Open Class Sheep at the South Dakota State Fairgrounds and serve as a multi-purpose facility including a show arena and educational center. The indoor educational center will provide a place for interactive learning about the sheep industry, opportunities in agriculture, and our state’s rich agricultural history. Construction is underway now!
The 140th South Dakota State Fair dates are Wednesday, August 27 – Monday, September 1, 2025. For more information about the South Dakota State Fair, contact the Fair office at 800-529-0900, visit www.sdstatefair.com or find them on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
Comments