Winneshiek County Fair cancels entertainment, still hopeful for 4-H and FFA

The Winneshiek County Agricultural Association announced Tuesday it will not have grounds and entertainment activities at the 2020 fair in Decorah after receiving health and legal recommendations.

The cancellation includes the Fair Races, Rodeo, Tractor Pull, Joe Stamm Band, and Saturday night acts Gabby Barrett and Jordan Davis. All carnival and grounds entertainment are also canceled.

The Nitty Gritty Dirt band, scheduled for Friday night, had already canceled their appearance at the 2020 Fair.

Public Health comments, CDC guidelines, and legal guidance from the county attorney were considered throughout this decision making process in addition with the concern to keep residents of Winneshiek County safe and healthy.

The association believed CDC guidelines recommending 6-foot social distancing would be too difficult to enforce if they were still in place by the dates of the fair which were set for July 14-18.

“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,” the association said in a Facebook post. “Revenue deficits are simply too great to overlook.”

The Fair Board is working with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach to find a workable solution to schedule the 4-H and FFA shows.

“A great amount of time and thought was put into this decision. While it is deeply disappointing, the Fair Board looks forward to 2021. We are all very grateful for the great community support we receive each year to be able to put on the ‘Biggest Little Fair in Iowa.’ Thank You to each and every one of the businesses and individuals who help make this fair what it is.”