The SEMO district fair in photos

What accounts for the fair's sustained popularity depends on who you ask. 4-H organizer J.W. Strack said his mother, Dortha, who was a longtime fair organizer before her death in February, had a saying that summed up the fair's appeal.

"She used to say it every year," he said. "From 1 to 100, you're always a kid at the fair."

As summer winds down, the 163rd SEMO District Fair gave local residents plenty of opportunity to celebrate this week.

From the music and animals to the rides and the ever-popular demolition derby, the Southeast Missourian photo staff were on-hand to document the festivities. These selections were among the favorites.