Fair-goers were steady at this year’s Westerner Days as attendance was up 9.25% over last year.
More than 102,000 people came through the gates over the five days of the fair.
“We were hoping to reach an attendance goal of 100,000 and we did,” said Erin Gobolos, marketing manager at Westerner Park. “We’re really happy about that.”
Some of the popular attractions included the concerts and entertainment that took place throughout the fair grounds.
“The mainstage acts are always popular and people really like the free concerts as well,” said Gobolos. “Some new attractions we added this year that were also popular included more entertainment on the grounds. The zoo – X-Treme Wild, the reptile show and the movie stunt act were hugely popular.”
She added the livestock show was also a hit with fair-goers.
“This year we added the long horns and we had people from all over North America come for that. They are really a spectacular animal and people loved to see them.”
She added the 19th Street Market is always a favourite stop for patrons as well.
“People love to shop and there are always some really great deals in there,” said Gobolos.
It was also a successful five days for the pony chuckwagons as stands were full of spectators nightly and also during Sunday’s finals.
Gary Thiel took first place, Curtis Hogg took second and Ray Adamson was third. In the Dash for Cash race, Thiel also came out on top.
In addition, Gobolos said Westerner officials were on the grounds surveying patrons about what they liked and what they would like to see changed for next year’s event.
“The free entertainment is always big. I think that people really like the idea that they can pay the gate admission and then have access to all of this great entertainment,” said Gobolos. “We are always looking to improve people’s experiences on site.”
As for next year, Westerner officials are already in planning mode.
“We have had a brainstorming meeting already and are looking forward to next year,” said Gobolos.
efawcett@reddeerexpress.com
