Although severe weather washed out some of the final weekend's big events, attendance at the 2019 Indiana State Fair saw a slight increase in attendance compared to 2018.

This year's hero-centric fair attracted 878,857 visitors, according to officials. That's up about 2% from the 860,131 people who attended in 2018, but down 3% from the 906,732 fairgoers who made it to the event in 2017.

This year's 17-day event took on the theme of “Heroes in the Heartland" and was presented by the Indiana Donors Network. The idea was to "pay tribute to the heroism of everyday Hoosiers."

Indiana farmers, first responders, educators, members of the military and more were honored throughout the event. Each day during the fair also highlighted Marvel and DC Comics Superheroes.

Next year's Indiana State Fair will run from Aug. 7 through Aug. 23. The theme has not been revealed.

Call IndyStar reporter Justin L. Mack at 317-444-6138. Follow him on Twitter: @justinlmack.