Barnstable County Fair Returning This Summer

EAST FALMOUTH, MA — After a pandemic year without concerts, fairs and other large gatherings, the Barnstable County Fair is planning on making a comeback this summer.

The Barnstable County Agricultural Society, which owns the Cape Cod Fairgrounds, announced they plan to bring back the region's biggest summer event July 19-25. However, the dates are still tentative and could be canceled depending on the state of the coronavirus pandemic this summer.

Details on how social distancing protocol will work are still being planned, but the society ensured all COVID-19 guidelines will be followed.

"We've got our fingers crossed that we will be at a point where we will be able to go forward with the Barnstable County Fair, following all proper COVID-19 guidelines at the time," a Facebook post from the fair read. "While it is not 100 percent certain that we will be able to host the 2021 Fair, we are hoping for the best."

The Barnstable County Fair has been a staple on Cape Cod since 1844. It's only been canceled a handful of times. in its 170-plus year run — once in 2020 amid the coronavirus pandemic. The only other times the fair was canceled were because of war, the polio outbreak and severe weather.

Proceeds from the fair go towards grounds upkeep and more than $30,000 in scholarships for local students