“There may be areas that are not open or are operating differently this year due to COVID-19,” the Mower County Fair Board announced on the Mower County Fair Facebook page. “There will be additional hand sanitizing available as well as having tables spread out to allow people to social distance while enjoying their favorite fair foods. There is ongoing planning to hold livestock and other competitions in a different manner as well. Currently Creative Arts and Horticulture buildings will be open and entries are being accepted.”

According to Mower County Fair Board Director John Mueller, the following applies to this year’s fair:

• 4-H will not be participating during fair week; however, the Fair Board is working with Mower County 4-H to schedule livestock competitions outside of fair week and work within their guidelines.

• FFA will not be having competitions or displays at county fairs in Minnesota. There are currently no discussions to hold competitions outside of fair week.

• The Fair Board is considering different options as to how to handle the open livestock shows during fair week. The Midwest Steer Show is still scheduled for Aug. 11. One option being discussed for open livestock shows is the possibility of each species having a one day show where the animals are brought to the grounds, judged, and leave the grounds the same day. These are often referred to as trailer shows.

• Other areas of competition, such as creative arts and horticulture, are expected to operate as usual except that there will not be food categories in which the judge would taste the food.  Creative Arts and Horticulture entries are being accepted. Information can be found online at http://www.mowercountyfair.com/fair-info/premium-guide/ or by e-mailing info@mowercountyfair.com.

• Daycare Day will not be held this year as it typically has hands-on activities for the children where the children handle toys and game pieces.

• The Mower County Historical Society, located on the east end of the grounds near the main gate, has announced that they will not have their buildings open fair week.

• Gold Star Amusements will be present and has worked on their operating plan to offer rides and amusements for fair guests.

Mueller added that the Fair Board is meeting bi-weekly to discuss updates and changes and will continue to do so.

“While the fair is taking steps to enhance your safety, those attending are encouraged to take individual responsibility by wearing masks and practicing social distancing to enhance the safety of everyone on the grounds,” the Fair Board stated. “Equally important, if you are sick or have been exposed to a person with COVID-19, please stay home for the well being of others.”