WEST ALLIS, WI (WSAU) — Another summertime staple has been called off due to the spread of COVID-19.
Directors of the Wisconsin State Fair announced the cancelation of the 2020 event on Thursday along with all other events at State Fair Park.
Chairman John Yingling announced that for the safety of fairgoers, staff, vendors, entertainers, exhibitors, sponsors, suppliers and the broader community, the 2020 Wisconsin State Fair has been canceled.
“The Wisconsin State Fair is so much more than just a fair – it is a celebration of everything we are so proud of in Wisconsin,” said Kathleen O’Leary, CEO of Wisconsin State Fair Park. “We understand the magnitude of disappointment you may be feeling. We feel it too. However, safety is our top priority, and that cannot be compromised under any circumstance. We have tremendously loyal fairgoers, vendors, partners and exhibitors. For that we are forever grateful, and our greatest responsibility is to ensure that the fair remains strong and resilient for future generations.”
Organizers cited financial hardships associated with putting on a smaller Fair, and the difficulty of enforcing social distancing guidelines as factors in the decision as well.
All tickets purchased for the 2020 event will be rolled over to 2021 including those purchased during special promotional events. Refunds for tickets will also be honored through June 30th. Tickets for mainstage entertainment will be fully refunded back to the credit card they were purchased on.
The last time the Wisconsin State Fair was canceled was due to World War II.
The 2020 Minnesota State Fair in the Twin Cities was also canceled earlier this week.
