The covid-19 pandemic has led to the cancellation of the Alameda County Fair in Pleasanton, officials said on Thursday. It’s the first cancellation in the fair’s 108-year history.
“As much as we love putting on the Fair and bringing the community together, it is clear that it is best to postpone Fair this year, we will celebrate together again in 2021,” said Gordon Galvan, president of the Alameda County Fair Association Board of Directors. “Canceling the Fair is devastating to our team and partners who come from across the country to entertain the Alameda County community.”
The fair’s cancellation is yet another dose of bad economic news for the county and the Tri-Valley. Fair officials said the event generates an annual $32 million jolt to the local economy each year, while providing about 900 jobs.
The annual summer event, which attracts 500,000 visitors a year, was scheduled for June 19 to July 12.
Similar to the cancellation of the city of Alameda’s Fourth of July parade, announced this week, board official said uncertainty over the time and manner the state and county’s shelter in place order will be lifted, made organizing the large event difficult, in addition, to health concerns.
“The Alameda County Agricultural Fair Association has actively been following state and county officials in an effort to comply with public health mandates,” said Alameda County Fair Association CEO Jerome Hoban. “The health and safety of guests, staff, and partners continues to be our number one priority, our team is updating protocols and guidelines so that when allowed, we can safely welcome the community back to the venue.”
The fair, however, offered some hope on Thursday, suggesting a community celebration could be held at the fairgrounds sometime in October, if conditions allow.
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