Sunny skies and all the festive offerings of the Wisconsin State Fair propelled attendance and sales during the fair's 11-day run from July 31 through Aug. 10, 2008.

Attendance was up 9 percent over 2007 as 872,458 people passed through the West Allis gates.

"Our message of family affordability, diverse programming and a Fair experience to suit every age resonated with our Fairgoers," said Randy Prasse, executive director of Wisconsin State Fair, who went on to say, "We are certainly thrilled with the safe, fun experience we were able to provide our guests and are thankful that Mother Nature provided great weather for all to enjoy."

Here are more numbers from the State Fair wrap up department:

The Grand Champion Crossbred Steer shown by Brock May, weighing at 1315 pounds, sold for $25,000 with the winning bid from Metcalfe Sentry Foods.

Cream puffs sold: 381,926

Bags of maple cotton candy: 4,235

Grilled cheese sandwiches: 48,582

Pork sandwiches: 46,967

Baked potatoes: 60,000

Giant slide rides (single-day record): 15,000

The 2009 Wisconsin State Fair, presented by U.S. Cellular, takes place Thursday, Aug. 6-16 at the Wisconsin State Fair Park.