While anything can happen in the span of two months, officials with the Delaware (Ohio) County Fair have indicated the 2020 renewal is on target to proceed as scheduled — albeit with some significant changes in place.
"We are excited to continue planning for the fair while working hand in hand with the Delaware (General) Health District to ensure that we have a safe and enjoyable environment for all of our patrons," senior fair board president Tom Wright said in a news release referenced by Columbus, Ohio, outlet ThisWeek Community News.
In addition to the implementation of now standard physical distancing guidelines throughout the fair, which will be held Sept. 19 to 26, the fair will implement numerous other safety and health adaptations in conjunction with mandates issued by Responsible Restart Ohio. Sanitation stations will be placed throughout the grounds, one-way traffic flow through buildings and barns will be encouraged, and grandstand occupancy for will be capped at 2,500 — despite recent renewals of the Little Brown Jug attracting over 40,000 people from around the world.
Fortunately, as it pertains to the five-day harness racing meet at Delaware culminating with the Little Brown Jug, hundreds of simulcast locations across North America are responsible for a significant portion of the money wagered on Delaware races.
"We are wanting to create a safe environment for families and race fans to enjoy this annual tradition," Wright said.
(with files from ThisWeek Community News)