TYLER, Texas — The 2020 East Texas Fair is canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the fair announced in a statement Wednesday.
The cancellation comes one week after the State Fair of Texas was also canceled. It is only the second time since World War II that the East Texas State Fair has been canceled.
The 2021 fair is scheduled to begin Sept. 21.
You can read the fair's full statement below:
"Have all the fun you want, we’ll make more!” has been the East Texas State Fair’s motto for many years. We remain committed to that theme and prepare every year to make a large batch of genuine, family friendly fun, but, regretfully, the situation this year is unprecedented and unimaginable before now.
"The Fair’s staff, volunteers and Board of Directors have worked tirelessly to put a plan into place to host the 2020 Fair. Frankly, we have a great plan. What has not cooperated are the current circumstances related to COVID-19. The trend needed to improve by now.
"As a result, in the interest of safety and health of all our partners, guests and staff, the 2020 East Texas State Fair will not happen. The Fair has been at its current location since 1912 making this year the 105th official event. This will be the second time the Fair has been formally canceled and the first time since WW II.
"The extremely difficult decision was made by the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors because we care about our people and because we can no longer efficiently get all the moving parts into position by September. The East Texas State Fair is a mammoth event requiring extensive planning, contracting and reservations. Borrowing a quote from our friends at the Minnesota State Fair, we are out of runway.
"Please know we intend to remain true to our mission regarding youth and education. Our scholarship pledges will continue. We expect to have another tremendous Academic Rodeo.
"So, hang on until September 24, 2021 and we will be back with a well-deserved celebration. Stay safe. Stay healthy."
