PIERRE, S.D. — The South Dakota Department of Agriculture announced the South Dakota State Fair, scheduled for Sept. 3-7, will continue.
The announcement was made in a news release Wednesday, June 3.
"Planning for the fair will look different as we navigate challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Even through the most difficult times, the state fair has been known to be an event where youth can celebrate achievement and showcase their hard work throughout the summer. The state fair may look different than it has in previous years, but the South Dakota Department of Agriculture is dedicated to creating a welcoming event where people can enjoy time with family and friends," the release states.
South Dakota State Fair Director Pegg Besch said the announcement that planning for the 2020 fair is continuing is exciting.
“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," Besch stated in the release.
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Components of the fair may be scaled to ensure Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines are being implemented to limit the spread of COVID-19.
"Currently, options are being researched and explored to increase additional health measures throughout the state fairgrounds," the release states.
“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,” South Dakota Lt. Gov. Larry Rhoden, who also is the interim secretary of agriculture, said in the release.
“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," Rhoden added.
The South Dakota Department of Health reported 5,162 positive confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state as of Wednesday, June 3.
There are 1,016 active cases as of Wednesday, up one from Tuesday.
The number of deaths remained the same at 62 for the fourth day in a row.
Recoveries are at 4,084, up 94 from Tuesday.
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Current hospitalizations are at 87.
A total of 456 have been hospitalized with COVID-19 since the pandemic began in March.
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