Illinois has become the latest state to cancel its state fair.
Gov. JB Pritzker used an executive order to cancel the event.
“The Illinois and Du Quoin State Fairs have been some of my favorite opportunities to celebrate our agricultural communities and the residents who make Illinois so exceptional. But it’s because the fairs are such a treasure to so many thousands of people that my administration, like those of our neighboring Midwestern states, must make the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 State Fairs in light of the risk posed by COVID-19. This is the right choice based on guidance from the Illinois Department of Public Health and other experts: we have to prioritize keeping our people safe. Our state fairs are unmatched across the nation, and I look forward to gathering again to showcase the best of Illinois when it is safe to do so,” he said in a statement.
The Illinois Department of Agriculture said it will be hosting its Junior Livestock Expo in Springfield in September and the 4-H General Project Show will be held virtually.
Some state reps were critical of the decision.
“I am tremendously disappointed the Governor has canceled the 2020 Illinois State Fair. Through state law, the General Assembly has mandated that Illinois shall have state fairs in Springfield and DuQuion. This decision is yet another one in which the Governor has exceeded his authority during the pandemic and will be in violation of state law,” Tim Butler of Springfield said.
The Illinois State Fair and the Du Quoin State Fair will return August 2021.