WEST PALM BEACH, FL – Improved weather and new ride attractions helped contribute to a healthy increase in attendance at the just completed South Florida Fair. Total reported attendance, for the 17 day outdoor event which ended last night, was 598,268; up 3 per cent over a year ago. Even though part of the opening weekend was hampered by heavy rain, cold and wind, the fair rebounded with pleasant conditions to finish more than 17,000 patrons ahead of last year’s event. Rain or cold weather were significant factors in three of the previous fairs. Midway revenue at the ’06 fair hit an all time high. "The biggest we ever had,” said Rick Vymlatil, Fair CEO/President. "The new midway, produced by Wade Shows, was a hit with fairgoers. They had several big days.” The theme of the 2006 South Florida Fair was, "I’m Having a Ball” and featured an exciting interactive Sportsfest where families played home run derby, kicked winning field goals or competed in basketball. Californian Dave Henderson returned, after a 1 year hiatus, and crafted another legendary 400 ton sand sculpture. In addition to new carnival rides, the fair presented a tiger show, famed hypnotist Mark Yuzuik and a world class ice show, all free with fair admission ticket. Entertainment included headliner comedian Ron White. At the newly expanded Taste of Florida outdoor theater, Marshall Tucker, John Anderson, Blake Shelton, Bobby Vee, Uncle Kracker, Hot Brass Monkey, Keith "Wonderboy Johnson” and the Country Gold Tour performed for packed audiences. This year’s fair also introduced new weekday promotions including Lunch at the Fair. Patrons could purchase a specially discounted $10 admission ticket at 12:00 Noon. If they departed by 2:00 P.M., they were refunded their money. Senior Days and a Palm Beach County early release School Day promotion also were successful. The 2007 South Florida Fair will be January 12-28. For additional information, visit www.southfloridafair.com or phone (561) 793 0333.