Kingston Fall Fair cancelled for 2020
The grounds of the Memorial Centre will look quite a bit different this fall, as the Kingston and District Agricultural Society have made the “difficult decision” to cancel this year’s Kingston Fall Fair due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The decision was announced in the press release on Monday, May 11, 2020, which emphasized the regret of the Agricultural Society members in having to make the call.
“We understand that this decision may seem premature however there are several factors that have gone into this decision and we feel it is the best choice for the overall safety of our attendees, our competitors, and our volunteers,” the Kingston and District Agricultural Society Board of Directors said in the release.
According to the Agricultural Society, the following factors were taken into consideration:
- With the current restrictions in place due to the Covid-19 virus most of our competitions and events are unable to get ready to participate. Most of the competitions that lead up to the finals held at the Fair have been cancelled.
- The inability to effectively manage social distancing for an event of this size. Many of our events take place in a tightly enclosed space.
- There are many seniors that make up our volunteers and help with the Fall Fair every year and we are concerned for their increased vulnerability.
“There is no one more disappointed than we are that we have come to this decision. However, we do feel this is the right choice to make to assure the safety and health of all involved during this time of challenge,” the Board of Directors said. “The silver lining is this, we have been able to put together a FANTASTIC FAIR year after year with only 12 months planning! Wait until you see what we can do with an extra year!”
The press release indicates that organizers have plans to make the 190th Kingston Fall Fair, which is scheduled to take place in 2021, the best Fair yet. Participants and fans of the Fall Fair should keep an eye on the Kingston Fall Fair’s social media accounts for coming details.
“We have some things we want to accomplish this year that will be very exciting,” the Board of Directors said. “Stay safe, stay healthy, stay happy and we will see you soon!”
The Kingston Fall Fair has taken place on the grounds of the Kingston Memorial Centre for 189 years, and brings together those in the local agricultural community, local musicians and entertainers, and residents from across the City and surrounding districts.