Health

2020 Topsfield Fair canceled amid pandemic

TOPSFIELD, Mass. — For just the third time since its inception in 1818, the Topsfield Fair has been canceled for 2020 due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Essex Agricultural Society announced on Wednesday afternoon.

That society is the organization in charge of the fair, which has been canceled for a pandemic once before, in 1918, as well as for three years – 1943 through 1945 – due to World War II.

“We understand the impact of this decision for small businesses, family farms, competitors and exhibitors, and the disappointment of hundreds of thousands of people who look forward to the Topsfield Fair each year,” said James O’Brien, the general manager of the Topsfield Fair, in the announcement.

“However, the safety and health of our community has to be our top priority, and, due to the current restrictions, hosting the Topsfield Fair this year is impossible.”

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O’Brien went on to mention that the Essex Agricultural Society is looking to turn some contests into private events for this year.

“We are looking at the potential of hosting some of our contests privately to continue that tradition and we will make any contest-related announcements if and when the details are finalized,” he said.

“Everyone associated with the Essex Agricultural Society and the Topsfield Fair looks forward to better days ahead and celebrating the 2021 Topsfield Fair in October 2021.”

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