MONTEREY, CA. (June 29, 2020) — The 2020 Monterey County Fair set for Sept. 3-7, has been cancelled and rescheduled for 2021.
“This is sad and disappointing, but absolutely necessary, given the emergency circumstances we are facing in our state now,” said Fair CEO Kelly Violini. “But we are looking forward to a Monterey County Fair that will be bigger, better and safer in 2021. Instead of a setback, we can see this as an opportunity to improve, make changes and keep everyone safe.”
At its meeting on Thursday, June 25, 2020, the Board of Directors of the Monterey County Fair (an Agency of the State of California) voted unanimously to cancel the Fair.
This action was taken pursuant to the state-of-emergency Executive Order N-33-20 issued by Gov. Gavin Newsom, as well as the follow-up directives from the state’s Public Health Officer Dr. Sonia Angell, (under California Government Code Sections 120125, 120140, 131080, 120130(c), 120135, 120145, 120175 and 120150.) This action was also in keeping with advice that has been provided by the Monterey County Department of Public Health.
In canceling the 2020 Fair, the Board of Directors cited local and statewide directives limiting mass gatherings, an assessment by the Monterey County Health Officer, who states that Stage Four events are not expected during the current year, and the fact that the California Department of Food and Agriculture has confirmed this assessment; thereby determining there was no other option but to cancel the Fair.
“We appreciate the support of all of our Fair partners and know that this decision will not necessarily come as a surprise given the current climate in our state,” said Violini. “The Board of Directors has put a plan in place for a closed exhibit program and livestock show and traditional junior livestock auction format, which will be offered virtually. And, there will be a drive-through fair food experience showcasing our sponsors and local businesses.”
The Monterey County Fair was scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 3 to Monday, Sept. 7, 2020, at the Monterey County Fair & Event Center, 2004 Fairground Road, in Monterey. The theme of the 2020 fair was “Fiesta” and was to celebrate the city of Monterey’s 250th birthday.
About the Monterey County Fair & Event Center
The Monterey County Fair & Event Center is a premier event center set on 22 oak-studded acres with ample parking. It is a state-owned multi-use facility that features four large banquet rooms, two outdoor concert venues, and a variety of outdoor and indoor cost-effective sites ideal for all types of events. It is home of the annual award-winning Monterey County Fair, host to many major and private events on the Central Coast, and the site of the Monterey Bay Race Place, a Satellite Wagering Facility.
For more information, contact the Fair Administration Office, at 2004 Fairground Road in Monterey, by calling (831) 372-5863 or go to www.montereycountyfair.comfor more information.
