MEDINA COUNTY, Ohio — After an emergency meeting of the Medina Agricultural Society-Board of Directors, the 175th Medina County Fair will be postponed until 2021.
The announcement was made through a press release via Chuck Stiver, Board President.
"Members made the decision after careful consideration of the Responsible Restart Ohio - County Fairs guidelines," the release states. "Consideration was given to the Fairs ability to follow the guidelines, while maintaining financial viability, as well as provide for the health and safety of exhibitors, concessionaires, and fairgoers"
The Board reluctantly came to the decision, as they share the disappointment of Jr. Fair Exhibitors and the community itself. "We appreciate the Community's support during these challenging times, and we are hopeful you understand how difficult this decision was."
Planning for the 175th anniversary in 2021 is to begin immediately, per the release, in what is hoped to be "bigger and better than ever."
Last week, Gov. Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Health Director Dr. Amy Acton stated that they strongly recommend that for the 2020 fair season, agricultural societies limit fairs to allow only for 4-H and FFA “Junior Fair” activities.
However, if fair boards decide that they can safely host attractions, concessions, and exhibitors beyond Junior Fair activities, as long as they comply with the state's safety protocols, the events will be allowed to happen.
"Decisions about county and independent fairs should be made locally because each county and independent fair is unique and has different challenges," Gov. DeWine said during a COVID-19 briefing in Columbus.