The Carbon County Fair Board of Directors has announced the 2020 edition of the fair has been canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a press release, Bob Silliman, board president, said, “Although, the decision was not one the board took lightly, I believe the best decision was made considering the health and safety of patrons, our ride purveyor, vendors, entertainers, volunteers, 4-H members and those in the open classes who display.”

The fair was scheduled to be held Aug. 3-8 in Lower Towamensing Township.

Silliman said several considerations factored into the cancellation, including “not knowing if the governor is going to allow gatherings of more than 250 individuals, uncertainty regarding fair funding, and not knowing if 4-H members will be allowed to participate in the event.”

He said while the fair property exceeds 30 acres, the current state regulation limiting crowds to 250 persons was a major factor in the board’s decision.

One of the entertainers slated on this year’s agenda was Ryan Pelton, an Elvis impersonator who was scheduled to make a repeat appearance at the fair. Fair officials said that event typically attracts “700 attendees,” a crowd that would not be allowable under the state guidelines.”

Silliman, meanwhile, said operating the fair involves a significant financial commitment, including entertainment, rentals and other expenses. The fair’s annual budget is nearly $200,000.

He added, “When considering the operational costs, restrictions and the unknown, the board was left with no other option than to cancel.”

Another major concern of board members, he said, was the participation of 4-H youths. The board president said they have “been fully committed for months, to their projects and raising their animals, and our board would love to see their projects completed and animals sold.” He said details on how the fair board may assist in this process will be announced at a later date.

Silliman shared he is also concerned about community organizations and businesses that relied on the fair for raising funds, saying “It will be a financial hardship for so many.”

He noted he will be reaching out to all vendors who made a commitment to this year’s fair within the next two weeks as the fair association explores other opportunities for them.

Silliman said the board will hold the 2021 fair on Aug. 9-13 at the fairgrounds off Little Gap Road.