GILLETT, WI- Oconto County joins the list of fairs that have canceled for 2020 due to COVID-19 concerns.

The fair board called the decision a difficult one to make, but one they needed to make based on what they know today.

“Due to the evolving Covid-19 pandemic and the continued uncertainty for social gatherings, as well as the financial and liability implications, the board considered all of the risks to our exhibitors, their families, our volunteers, and most importantly the public, in making this decision.”

The Oconto County Youth Fair Board has been in communication with our county health officials, the Wisconsin Association of Fairs, the CDC, insurance companies, and others in the fair industry for the most current Covid-19 information available.

See the full message from the Oconto County Youth Fair Board below.

Dear Fair Family and Friends:

The Oconto County Youth Fair Board has been monitoring the Covid-19 situation since March. Through this time, the Board continued to stay positive and prepare for the 79th annual 2020 Oconto County Youth Fair. It is with great sadness that the Oconto County Youth Fair Board has made the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 Youth Fair out of concern for the safety and health of the community, the general public, vendors, service groups, exhibitors, volunteers, fair staff, and all other participants. This event was to be held on August 15, 16, and 20-23, 2020 in Gillett. Due to the evolving Covid-19 pandemic and the continued uncertainty for social gatherings, as well as the financial and liability implications, the board considered all of the risks to our exhibitors, their families, our volunteers, and most importantly the public, in making this decision.

Our fair traditions and our youth are very important to us, but nothing is more important than the safety and health of every person that may join us at the Oconto County Youth Fair. That is our number one priority. While we strive to provide an entertaining and educational event for people of all ages, we must do it in a safe and secure environment.

The Oconto County Youth Fair Board has been in communication with our county health officials, the Wisconsin Association of Fairs, the CDC, insurance companies, and others in the fair industry for the most current Covid-19 information available. No one knows what the situation will be like at fair time in August. There are hurdles that would need to be cleared for sure, but the Fair Board has reached the point where we need to make a decision based on what we know today. The Fair Board is sensitive to the fact that Covid-19 has negatively impacted big moments, milestones, and experiences for those across the county and understands the cancellation of the Oconto County Youth Fair comes with great disappointment for those who plan, attend, exhibit, participate, and support it. All of our exhibitors, from Cloverbuds through those in their last year of showing, are extremely important to the success of the fair. However, the health and safety of all people associated with every aspect of the fair are our top priorities.

On behalf of the entire Oconto County Youth Fair Board, please know that the decision to cancel this year’s fair was not taken lightly. We are staying positive and looking forward to celebrating traditions and making new memories at the 2021 Oconto County Youth Fair on August 14, 15, and 19-22. Until then, stay safe, be well, and support each other. Thank you for your continued support and understanding. If you have questions or concerns, please email the Fair Board at ocontocountyyouthfair@gmail.com and the Board will review and respond at the next scheduled meeting.

Sincerely,

The 2020 Oconto County Youth Fair Board