La Crosse Interstate Fair postpones to 2021, exhibitors allowed extra year of eligibility

The La Crosse County Agricultural Society announced the cancellation of the La Crosse Interstate Fair Tuesday after monitoring the COVID-19 situation for several months.

Originally scheduled July 15-19 at the fairgrounds in West Salem, the La Crosse Interstate Fair is a community educational event for exhibitors to share and showcase their pride. It is also for commercial merchants to inform the public of new technologies, inventions, products and services.

“The fair is a way to see the hard work of the county 4-H, FFA, and youth organizations projects as they build on life learning experiences,” the society said. “The fair is an opportunity to celebrate youth projects in the areas of animal sciences, home environment, mechanical and natural sciences, plant and soil sciences, visual arts, leadership, and much more for those in grades Kindergarten to one year past high school. We are all so very proud of everyone’s individual accomplishments.”

The La Crosse County Agricultural Society acknowledged the disappointment the community may feel, but said the safety of all involved was its highest priority under the circumstances.

Given the decision, the board did allow any youth exhibitor that has aged out of participation in 2020 and enrolled in a project to be eligible to participate in the 2021 La Crosse Interstate Fair within the same project area.

“We would like to thank the community for their support and understanding as well as the exhibitors, superintendents, judges, volunteers, first responders and the fair guests that make our fair so very special,” the society said.

The 130th La Crosse Interstate Fair is schedule for July 14-18.