Photos: Missouri State Fair continues traditions of ham, heifers and family fun

Thousands flocked to Sedalia in central Missouri for the annual Missouri State Fair.
SEDALIA — The Missouri State Fair brings thousands of people to central Missouri each year.

The state showcase, held roughly 90 miles southeast of Kansas City, is known for its food, fun and other festivities — including the Governor's Ham Breakfast and livestock showcases.

Jayson Peterson, a 14-year-old from Cassville, was one of the livestock contestants this year. He has been showing miniature cattle for six years.

“My favorite part of the state fair is showing my Miniature Herefords,” he said. “I feel like the benefits of showing cattle are: You get to learn how to talk to people and go out of your way; you get to learn some business skills, and you get to learn some work ethic.”

Sue Melville, of Sedalia, said the fair is a pivotal part of the community and is one of the largest economic engines for the city of roughly 22,000.