North Carolina State Fair Cancelled for First Time Since WWII
The North Carolina State Fair has been cancelled for the first time since World War II, the organization announced Wednesday. The fair had been scheduled for Oct. 15-25, but won’t be held because of “continued uncertainty of conditions” surrounding the coronavirus (COVID-19).
“I can think of a thousand places I’d rather be today than here delivering this news,” said NC Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “The State Fair is a tradition we all look forward to each year. It’s a vital economic engine for local non-profits, community groups, small businesses and individuals. It’s a time for family and friends to come together to celebrate everything that makes North Carolina such a great place to live. We waited as long as we could, hoping the numbers would take a turn and we’d be able to continue with our planning, but each day brought more challenges than solutions.”
The move comes as many events around the state and region are being cancelled. The Cumberland County Fair announced it won’t hold indoor activities this year, and the Holly Day Fair in Fayetteville was cancelled as well.
“What we ultimately determined is that our correct course of action to do our part for the health and safety of our community and to mitigate the potential spread of COVID-19 is to cancel the 2020 N.C. State Fair,” We are disappointed for all that annually look forward to the largest event in North Carolina including the N.C. State Fair staff that work all year to bring the best to our visitors. We know this does not come without consequence.”
GALLERY: Coronavirus Impacts in North Carolina
