Nevertheless, according to the California Roadmap to Recovery, fairs and festivals remain in Stage 4 of the reopening plan and will not be permitted until the roadmap is complete and all shelter in place restrictions are lifted. At the Governor’s May 29 daily update, he stated that “We’re not ready for Stage 4 – concerts, big outdoor stadium events, festivals, and large conventions. We’re simply not there. There is no sectoral guidance that’s been given, no authority for local health officials to move into that phase.”
“While it was an extremely difficult decision for the Board, and one that we were hoping could go in a different direction, it is the only decision we could make in light of the restrictions on mass gatherings,” said Jeanette Royal, Board President of California’s 17th District Agricultural Association. “The Board and staff realize that this action has a huge impact on so many – our community, local businesses, sponsors, youth in agriculture, vendors, entertainers, local nonprofit organizations, and the Nevada County Fairgrounds itself – and we actively explored numerous possibilities before making this devastating decision. However, the Fairgrounds are state-owned property and the Board of Directors is responsible for the health and safety of our community, guests, and staff. We are following the guidelines set by the Governor and State public health directives to postpone mass gatherings until we can safely host them again.”
Since the 17th District Agricultural Association was formed in 1884, the Nevada County Fair has been one of the county’s most popular and longest standing events. This will be the first time since World War II that the annual Fair will not take place.
“We are deeply saddened to not be celebrating together at Nevada County’s favorite event,” said Fairgrounds CEO Patrick Eidman. “But until we are able to safely gather again at the Fairgrounds, our team will be exploring opportunities to hold virtual exhibit contests and other activities in the spirit of the Fair. Additionally, we are steadfastly committed to working with the Nevada County Livestock Producers to support our livestock and ag mechanics exhibitors with an online auction.”
Last year, the Nevada County Fair welcomed more than 95,000 guests to the grounds, generated millions of dollars for the local economy, provided more than $700,000 to youth in agriculture, broke record sales on Treat Street that infused almost $1,000,000 into local nonprofit organizations, showcased local entertainers and vendors, and provided nearly 250 jobs.
For information about the Nevada County Fairgrounds, visit NevadaCountyFair.com.