It’s an annual tradition: Midway’s swirling lights; quilts hanging inside the Roundhouse; fried dough slathered with maple cream and more than enough powdered sugar; the smoky aftermath of the Stoney Roberts Demolition Derby. Summertime feels incomplete without a visit to the Franklin County Fair.
That’s why we — like so many others in our community — are disappointed that it’s been postponed until 2021.
Following a unanimous vote by the Franklin County Agricultural Society’s board of directors on Tuesday, the 2020 event, planned for Sept. 10-13, is canceled because of the pandemic.
“This step is one we hate to take, but absolutely must,” said Mike Nelson, president of the Franklin County Agricultural Society. “For 172 years, the fairgrounds has been a beacon of pride in Franklin County. Taking this unprecedented step today will allow us to preserve this history and come together again at the annual Franklin County Fair in September 2021.”
We’re disappointed, but understand the thinking behind the decision.
First is the notable public health concern that hosting the fair would bring with it — not to mention that Massachusetts has an ongoing ban on large gatherings. Secondly are the financial implications. With sponsors canceling, a possibility of significantly decreased attendance (organizers estimated 50 percent less than last year), the financial risk also outweighs the potential benefit.
Nelson, who also works for the state Department of Public Health, wrote in a statement that while COVID-19 is currently retreating, most public health officials continue to warn that another wave is likely at some point in the future. Also noting the cost of an erosion repair project on the fairgrounds property, Nelson said financially it makes more sense to cancel the Franklin County Fair altogether than to host it at a limited capacity.
“You’re looking at a 50 percent loss in attendance,” Nelson estimated. “That’s a huge financial burden.”
The Greenfield fair is quintessential Franklin County. And while Nelson said that, based on the state’s recommendations, there might be other, smaller events held at the fairgrounds (like a cattle show in August and a goat show in July), its absence will be felt throughout the region — another stinging reminder of what’s been lost during this pandemic.
Eventually, life will get back to normal. And hopefully, organizers will be able to hold the fair next year in a way that’s beneficial and safe for everyone. Until then, we hope Franklin County’s generous community will continue to support area businesses (some of which might rely on the fair for income), buy from local farmers and appreciate the region’s pastoral beauty — which are, after all, a few of the key ingredients that make the Franklin County fair so special.