Operating the Missouri State Fair: 11 Days and Beyond

Aug 31, 2021

The Missouri State Fair only comes around once a year for 11 days. But, it takes every bit of the other 354 days of the year to make it happen. In the first installment of OUTdrive’s “Live from the Fair” series, Cliff Callis sat down with the director of the fair, Mark Wolfe, to get a better understanding of what goes into making the fair a success. 

Originally from Mountain Grove, Mark moved to the area to attend college, earning a degree in agricultural business from Missouri Valley College. He went on to own and operate a construction business for nearly 20 years before joining the Missouri State Fair staff in 2004 as facilities manager. In 2009, Wolfe was promoted to director, making the 2021 fair his 12th at the helm.

Tune into this episode of OUTdrive as Cliff and Mark talk about the work, rewards, and challenges that come with putting on the state’s largest agriculture expo. They also discuss what’s already in the works for 2022, the impact of COVID-19 and the rich history and tradition of the fair.

What you’ll learn: 

 

• Why it’s important for all Missourians to experience the Missouri State Fair 

 

• Mark’s role and day-to-day responsibilities as director during the fair and the rest of the year. 
• The effects of COVID-19, from last year’s cancellation to this year’s shortage of volunteers.
• The cost of maintaining the historical integrity of facilities and buildings on the fairgrounds.
• How the fair overcomes challenges like severe weather and entertainment changes
• Mark’s marketing insights from the 2021 fair 
• How the fairgrounds generates revenue during the off-season 
• Current planning and preparation for the 2022 fair