SEDALIA — The Missouri State Fair kicked off Thursday in Sedalia, with an opening ceremony, parade and more.

The fair website says the event plays a major role in the economy each year and helps agriculture stay one of Missouri's top industries.

This year marked the State Fair's 123rd year, and this year, the fairgrounds were 200 acres bigger.

Fair Director Jason Moore said the fair has between 10,000 and 11,000 youth livestock exhibits this year, with around 30,000 total exhibits.

The fair is open through Aug. 17. Tickets are $15.

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