SEVIER CO., Tenn. (WVLT) -- Labor Day may mark the end of summertime tourism, but it's just the beginning at the 2010 Sevier County Fair.

"Looks like a lot of people are here for our opening, and I think it's only going to get better," said Marlene Forrester, this year's fair director.

"Once upon a time, after this day, there was no tourists in Sevier County, pretty much gone," said Jonas Smelcer, a county official, and also a member of the fair board. "Now we have so many cabins, and so much other things to do, it continues on throughout the whole year."

The September lull is filled in by locals, heading out to celebrate festival food, folklore and rides.

"Even though we are a tourist town, our community really rallies behind our local events," said Forrester.

"You really see a difference when the tourists leave town. Probably about 40, 45 percent of your business is gone," said James Burgett.

Burgett, a Maryville-based vendor, says his Chicago Style hot dogs will sell with East Tennesseans, too.

"You have another 50, 55 percent of your local folks that keep you going."

The Sevier County Fair generally draws around 3000 people, per day, like the Burkett family from Pigeon Forge. "Pretty much just hit everything, whatever the kids want to do we let them do it," said Roy Burkett of Pigeon Forge.

"Riding some rides, we're about to get, eat, get some prizes," said Kevin Burkett, 7. "Probably do a Ferris Wheel, probably look at the animals, ride a horse."

This year, organizers hope the right combination of new draws and old favorites will bring in an even bigger crowd.

"One the weather is going to help us, and two the economy is picking up. I've noticed our vendors, we have a lot more vendors, and just from word of mouth, people are really looking forward to coming to the fair," said Forrester.

You can buy tickets at the gate for $5, while kids 10 and under are free. For more information, click on the link below.