FAIRLEA, WV (WOAY) – It was officially announced on Thursday that the State Fair of West Virginia will happen as scheduled.
“Our Board of Directors from the State Fair of West Virginia have voted to move forward with plans for the 2020 State Fair of West Virginia scheduled August 13 through 22 of this year,” Chief Executive Officer Kelly Collins said.
However, like everything else, it will look different.
There will be more hand washing and sanitizing stations, enhanced cleaning procedures, screening for employees and even testing for those who come from out of state to work.
For the big events like concerts, public agriculture shows and free performances, those official announcements as to whether or not they’re happening will be made in the coming days.
Organizers and supporters say the fact that they can have it is a major boost not only for the economy and tourism but for agriculture as well.
“It’s so important to the youth of our state that they get to show the livestock that they’ve put so much effort into raising that they get to showcase their animals and they get to have a sale,” West Virginia Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt said.
There will be social distancing and face mask requirements.
Announcements on that protocol will also be coming soon as well as how distancing will work in lines as the state fair continues to work with the state and the health department on their decisions.
“We hope it’s the right one. We’ll continue to work honestly to fix any problems that we may have,” Board Chairman Ralph Warren said.
Stay with us for more fair updates in the coming weeks.
