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South Dakota State Fair officials continue planning for 2020 event

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South Dakota State Fair officials continue planning for 2020 event

June 3, 2020

PIERRE, S.D. –Several state fairs in the upper Midwest have been cancelled this summer, Minnesota, North Dakota and Wisconsin among them. But in South Dakota, the Department of Agriculture (SDDA) announced that planning for the 2020 State Fair in Huron, scheduled for September 3-7, continues. 

“We are very excited to continue our planning for the 2020 South Dakota State Fair,” says Peggy Besch, South Dakota State Fair Director. “We know that this will look a lot different than previous years, but our highest priority is to ensure we are implementing measures so guests, participants, and the community can take the precautions necessary to stay healthy.”

As COVID-19 continues to offer its challenges, the SDDA and the South Dakota State Fair will work diligently to implement the necessary changes to promote hygiene and health while in attendance. Components of the fair may be scaled to ensure Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines are being implemented. Currently, options are being researched and explored to increase additional health measures throughout the state fairgrounds.

“The State Fair is a celebration that many look forward to every year, and South Dakota continues to set the example of getting ‘Back to Normal’ and continuing opportunities for youth in our state,” says South Dakota Lieutenant Governor and Interim Secretary of Agriculture Larry Rhoden. “The Fair is an event that lifts our spirits, no matter how difficult the times or circumstances. This year’s Fair will look different, but let’s embrace that challenge, adapt as necessary, and put on the best State Fair possible.”

The South Dakota State Fair appreciates all the support they have received while navigating this decision. The ‘Perfect Vision of Fun’ will take on a new meaning as the fair approaches. Moving forward and planning an event that continues to be fun and exciting while implementing CDC guidelines will remain a top priority for the South Dakota State Fair.

Agriculture is a major contributor to South Dakota’s economy, generating $32.5 billion in annual economic activity and employing over 132,000 South Dakotans. The South Dakota Department of Agriculture’s mission is to promote, protect, and preserve South Dakota agriculture for today and tomorrow. Visit us online at sdda.sd.gov or find us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.