Winneshiek County Agricultural Association cancels numerous events at the 2020 Fair

The Winneshiek County Agricultural Association has cancelled grounds and entertainment activities for the 2020 Winneshiek County Fair.  The cancellation includes races, rodeo, tractor pull, the Joe Stamm Band for Friday night, and Gabby Barret and Jordan Davis on Saturday night.  All carnival and grounds entertainment are also cancelled.  The Nitty Gritty Dirt band, scheduled for Friday night, had already cancelled their appearance at the 2020 Fair.

Winneshiek County Public Health Board comments, CDC guidelines and legal guidance from the Winneshiek County Attorney were considered in the decision-making process, in addition to the concern to keep residents of Winneshiek County safe and healthy.

A news release from the Agricultural Association states, "it was felt that the 6-foot social distance rule would be virtually impossible to enforce in most, if not all scheduled activities. The rule also severely limits the Fair's ability to remain financially viable. Due to the requirement of only 50 percent capacity at any event, revenue deficits are simply too great to overlook."

 

However, the Fair Board will continue to work with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach to find a workable solution to schedule the 4-H and FFA shows.  An announcement is expected "in the near future."