Since the first Fair in 1901, thousands of Missouri families have made the annual “pilgrimage” to Sedalia. Despite numerous differences, the Fair exhibitors of 1901 and today share an important common element. That common denominator is competition – the desire to put your efforts against your neighbor’s best.

Since the first State Fair, the reward has been ribbons, premium money and recognition. But the long-term effect of this healthy competition has been a steady improvement in Missouri’s agriculture, agribusiness, domestic arts and, today, even fine arts.

From 1901 to today, the Missouri State Fair has been a barometer of the state’s economic health and a documentary of the history of Missouri agriculture. The Missouri State Fair plays an essential role in keeping agriculture one of Missouri’s top industries.