By Jeremy Schroeder, Fair Manager
The Waupaca County Fair Board on Monday, July 20, held a special meeting to discuss and examine continuing with the 2020 fair, Aug. 27-30, noting several new developments that arose within the last week.
With very heavy hearts, emotional discussion and with complete care and compassion the board sadly voted to cancel the entire 2020 fair. The board realizes this is a complete change from the June press release but within the last week the board received several new developments from companies, groups, organizations and individuals that ultimately drove the decision.
While deeply disappointing not only for the board but for all of the exhibitors, entertainers, companies, sponsors, etc. the board had to put the safety of all first. There are so many facets to the fair and the planning completely focuses on the Waupaca County Fair Mission and noting the recent development of various cancellations and concerns from individuals, groups, companies and exhibitors the board responded with a vote to cancel the fair to ensure everyone can remain safe and plan for and rebound for an exciting, thrilling and awesome Waupaca County Fair experience in 2021, Aug. 25-29.
The Waupaca County Fair Board and manager have been actively discussing and planning the 2020 Fair for several months now with all city, county and state officials to ensure they have the most accurate recommendations and guidelines to implement and follow to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all but noting the recent spike in COVID taking place within the county, state and nation has made the challenge nearly impossible to ensure safety.
A 30-page Contingency Action Operations Plan was developed to address all procedures and protocols for the 2020 fair in trying to move forward to keep people safe but in the end could not be tailored enough considering recent developments and continual daily changes. The board fully appreciates that some may completely disagree with the current state of the pandemic and decision to cancel the fair; however, the board also recognizes and appreciates the same passion for those that support this decision for safety.
In the end, the decision wasn’t easy nor taken lightly or made quickly and isn’t about any individual, group, company, etc. winning because the fair is for the youth and families of Waupaca County and beyond to be educated and enjoy a fun and interactive environment. As indicated in the June 18 press release, there could be changes and altering of the fair and the board has tried for months now making plans and changing plans, listening to feedback, filling gaps, modifying scheduling, judging and processes, changing layouts, etc., but the safest and most equitable decision ended up with the cancelation of the 2020 fair.
Again, we realize that some may appreciate the decision while others will be completely frustrated and not totally understand. Please stay tuned for further information on exhibiting updates and modifications for 2021, refunds, etc. The board fully respects all views and encourages people to be patient, respectful and focus on staying healthy and keep the energy and enthusiasm for all of the great things the fair has to offer that will be back stronger than ever in 2021, Aug. 25-29.