DANVILLE — The Hendricks Country Fair in Danville next month will not resemble its usual self.
There will be no rides, concession stands or the typical carnival atmosphere.
Hendricks has joined a majority of counties in Central Indiana is scaling back its county fair over COVID-19 concerns and restrictions.
But there will be 4-H activity at the fairgrounds—a live in-person event for 4-H members, their families and volunteers.
Members of the Hendricks Fair Board expressed concern for public health, the financial feasibility of hosting a fair that would have to adhere to the strict health and safety guidelines laid down by Purdue Extension in response to the pandemic.
“Knowing how easily the virus spreads in large groups, we believe it is the safest path forward for the health and safety of all concerned,” said Rocky Turner, President of the Hendricks County 4-H & Agricultural Fair Association. “The financial ramifications of hosting a reduced-capacity 4-H Fair would be too great, and we need to protect the Hendricks County 4-H Fair for future generations.”
Organizers will livestream 4-H events on the Hendricks County 4-H Fair website, www.4hcomplex.org, during the week of July 19-25.
“Our first priority is the safety of the thousands of people involved in the Hendricks County 4-H Fair each year. While this is a difficult decision, we feel it is necessary to protect the fairgoers, exhibitors, volunteers, vendors, partners, performers, concessionaires, youth leaders, employees and sponsors,” said Turner.
