Damp forecast doesn’t keep fairgoers away

A little drizzle didn’t stop dozens of people from standing in line to be among the first inside the Santa Barbara Fair and Expo. Fair organizers were a bit disappointed by the forecast.

“I thought we were in a drought situation but I find out today we’ve got all this moisture,” said Scott Grieve, the CEO and General Manager of Earl Warren Showgrounds.

But he is looking on the bright side.

“Our opening day is typically our lowest day because its mid day, mid week scenario, but we usually hit it big over the weekend,” said Grieve.

In fact, he is expecting nearly 50,000 people to attend over the next few days.

There is a lot to do at this year’s event.

“It’s a great experience. Excellent food, excellent rides,” said fairgoer Sierra Hoskinds.

4-year-old LeAnne Rapps didn’t let the wet weather damper her spirit.

“She’s been seeing it on the freeway, and so excited to come,” explained LeAnne’s mom, Cassie.

The All-Alaskan pig races are a big fan favorite. While the crowds may have been a bit thin Wednesday night, hundreds are expected to take part Friday and Saturday nights.

You can’t come to the fair without sampling all the food, according to Kimmy Smith.

“corn dog, pizza, shaved ice. We’re going to go get some fried cheesecake right now.”

The fair runs through Sunday.

For more information, you can go to http://www.earlwarren.com/fair.html