The gates of the 2002 Puyallup Fair have closed and turnstiles counts tallied, with 1,184,671 people attending the Sept. 6-22 event.
This is the 18th highest attendance since the fair started in 1900, and less than a 2 percent decline from last years attendance.
The Stars & Stripes Forever exhibit was a new feature, complete with a replica of the Oval Office, highlights of American presidents, and a variety of interactive displays.
Actors posing as George Washington, Ben Franklin and Abraham Lincoln brought history to life for many attendees.
Fred Oldfields West art show, three new thrill rides and the Puyallup Rodeo finals filmed by ESPN2 were also new.
The Salute to Courage tribute on Sept. 11 featured presentations by Commanding Gen. Edward Soriano, Fort Lewis; and Col. Robert Allardice, McChord AFB.
Over 10,000 attended the event, which was free of charge and included free gate admission and free parking.
Pig races, Senior Tuesdays, speciality exhibits and the Health Expo were other 2002 Puyallup Fair features.
A packed concert venue for Brooks & Dunn and the Newsboys added to the excitement, while Alanis Morissette, Bill Cosby and Wynonna drew big crowds at Columbia Banks Puyallup Fair Concert Series.
Animals, agriculture, exhibits, food and rides and family fun balanced out the Pacific Northwest tradition.
The 2003 Puyallup Spring Fair will be held April 10-13 at the Puyallup Fairgrounds, followed by the Puyallup Fair, Sept. 5-21.
For information, call 253/841-5045, or visit www.thefair.com.
