Hard numbers won't be known for a few days, but officials with the Jefferson City Jaycees Cole County Fair believe they'll end up with between 15,000-25,000 people attending this year's fair.
"That would probably fall in the range of a normal year," said Chapter President Erin Wiseman. "Friday night we had a big crowd, and because we do advertising in places like Rolla and Mexico, I know we get lots of people from surrounding counties. We also have people coming from other states to compete in some of our contests."
Overall, Wiseman said things went "fantastic" despite the heat.
"The public was really receptive to what we put out there," she said. "I can't think of any real problems. It's all a matter of logistics. When you throw in the Jaycees and their alumni, Cole County EMS personnel, the Cole County Sheriff's Department and members of the various fire protection districts, there's probably 300-400 people involved in making the fair work - and that's not including the carnival workers."
The fair is the organization's largest event, lasting six full days, covering 50 acres and requiring 10 months of planning.
Wiseman said they probably won't be looking at concrete ideas for next year's fair until October, but some on the fair board have already started looking at possibilities.
"Over the years, the Jaycees have consistently had members who volunteer their time because they believe in ... and love this event."
Wiseman added while getting ready for their fair, some Jaycees members go to surrounding county fairs to see what might and what might not work here in Cole County.
"In January, we attend a fairs and festival showcase where they put out ideas for carnivals and entertainment," she said. "There's no set specific formula. With more people getting involved in the Jaycees we get more ideas and that's good."