State Fair scores opening night success with big crowds

The 144 th annual Colorado State Fair kicked off Friday, drawing large crowds on opening night.

A full slate of carnival rides, exotic fried foods, and unique vendors greeted crowds, not to mention a night of mild weather.

This year, the Fair features some new attractions designed to inject a little education into your visit.

The “Wizards Challenge” introduces science to kids, but in a way that’s so fun, they’ll hardly notice that they’re learning at the State Fair.

The Fair’s new general manager, Sarah Cummings, says Friday’s opener was the culmination of a year’s worth of work.

“All of our planning and preparation fell into place beautifully,” says Cummings, “we’re just so excited”

Cummings has been managing Fairs since 2007, when she held the role of deputy manager of the Monterey County Fair in California.

Now, Cummings is hoping for a successful 2016 outing, and she says she’s working hard to make sure the Fair remains in Pueblo for the foreseeable future.

This year, there are more than 300 exhibitors, 50 food vendors, and of course daily livestock events, including the Junior Livestock Sale on Tuesday.

Gates are open from 10am to 11pm – Friday Through Sunday, Noon to 11pm Monday through Thursday.

The Colorado State Fair runs through Labor Day.