80th NJ State Fair Cancelled Over Coronavirus Concerns

SUSSEX COUNTY, NJ - The shifting sands surrounding the coronavirus, or COVID-19, pandemic and the public health crisis is has sparked has prompted the cancellation of the 2020 NJ State Fair, according to the Directors of the Sussex County Farm & Horse Show Association.

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“We are heartbroken that circumstances beyond our control prevent us from offering the annual and iconic Fair to the residents of Sussex County and neighboring areas. In particular, we will miss the children, 4-Hers and families that anticipate and look forward every year to their 'Fair experience,'" Fair President Joan Snook Smith said. "Unfortunately, after weeks of consideration, there seems to be no path forward toward a safe and enjoyable Fair in 2020."

Smith noted the safety of the NJ State Fair’s visitors, participants and community is the highest priority in producing the annual Fair. Based on guidance from public health and government officials, it became clear that cancellation was the prudent choice for the Fair to do its part to improve community health and safety, and reduce the cycle of infection, she said.

The impact of COVID-19 on the operation of the Sussex County Fairgrounds has been very economically challenging and the Fair’s cancellation will be felt far beyond the Fairgrounds, officials said.

"We regret the effect this cancellation will have on the small businesses, family farms, competitors, exhibitors, community groups and non-profits that rely on the income and exposure that the NJ State Fair brings them,” Smith said.

The impact is felt not only by those who participate on the Fairgrounds during Fair week, but also the many surrounding businesses who benefit from the influx of visitors to the area, she said. According to officials, Fairgrounds staff will be working with all our vendors, participants and stakeholders to address concerns and answer questions.

"In our 80-year history, the Fair has only been cancelled one other time, during the hurricane of 1955," the Directors said in a statement. "We remain committed to our mission to showcase New Jersey’s agriculture, to provide safe, family-friendly entertainment and educational activities, to promote youth development and to give financial support to charitable non-profit agencies."

Back in 1955, Hurricane Connie forced the Fair to close one day early. This is the first time the entire event has been cancelled.

Officials said they remain hopeful that the other events planned at the Fairgrounds in the coming months will continue on schedule and that they are committed to holding the 2021 NJ State Fair from Aug. 7 to Aug. 14 2021.

With the cancellation of the 2020 Fair, next year’s Fair will be celebrated as the 80th anniversary, officials said.

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