New Coliseum, Indiana Beer and Wine exhibition leave lasting impression at Indiana State Fair

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Published: Tuesday, 19 August 2014 00:26

More than 950,000 total visitors make ’14 fair third largest crowd ever

INDIANAPOLIS – The renovated Fairgrounds Coliseum and the new Indiana Beer and Wine Exhibition both received rave reviews from visitors to this year’s Indiana State Fair, which wrapped up Sunday (Aug. 17).

The 2014 fair attracted 954,884 people, making this the third best attended fair.

“There were a number of really special moments at this year’s fair, but seeing that first Draft horse show take place before a capacity crowd in the Coliseum had to be among the best,” State Fair Executive Director Cindy Hoye said.  “We’re humbled by the tremendous response to the Coliseum renovation and we appreciate everyone who came out to enjoy this year’s fair. It was wonderful!”

Across the street from the Coliseum, the new Indiana Beer and Wine Exhibition drew 48,259 visitors and many compliments from visitors and participating vendors alike. More than 70 different brewers and wineries took part in the exhibit, which featured up to four different brewers and four different wineries each day of the fair.

“This was a tremendous opportunity for us to reach a lot of people who weren’t familiar with our products or with craft beer in general,” TwoDEEP Brewing Co. President Andy Meyer said. “We thought the State Fair had a great operational plan in place and we look forward to being back next year.”

Among other fair highlights were several standing room only crowds at the Free Stage; a memorable recognition for the young showmen in the Celebration of Champions; an increase in entries for competitions; and wonderful free family entertainment.

Temperatures during the fair were seasonably low and rain dampened attendance for three of the 17 days. Fair officials expect to announce the “Year of” theme for 2015 sometime in October. Next year’s State Fair runs Aug. 7 – 23.