By Marshall Griffin, KWMU
Jefferson City, MO – The Missouri State Fair opens Thursday in Sedalia, and state officials are hoping to boost the number of visitors to the annual event.
Among the cost-saving measures is the opening day admission price of $1, the Second Thursday admission of $2, and free grandstand seating for the Kansas concert on Sunday the 16th.
Governor Jay Nixon told reporters in Jefferson City he's hopeful the fair will provide an economic spark to the state.
"We think it's a very cheap way to spend a summer...we're cautiously optimistic that we're going to hit all our numbers," Nixon said.
Fair Director Mark Wolfe also said they're working to keep costs low for families.
"We have in the neighborhood of $300,000 worth of free entertainment events around the fairgrounds for folks to see...we did not raise prices over last year...$8 is (the) regular adult admission...kids 12 and under (get in) free, (and) parking is free," Wolfe said.
The Missouri State Fair runs from August 13th through the 23rd.
In addition to Kansas, this year's music acts include Heart, Shinedown, and country music duo Brooks and Dunn, who just announced they're calling it quits and planning a farewell tour next year.