With Covid On The Way Out, Michigan County Fairs Are Returning
Last year Covid-19 wiped out the county fair tradition in Michigan, but in 2021 most county fairs in Michigan are expected to return in some form or fashion. Michigan in normal years hosts 86 county fairs. The Michigan Association of Fairs and Exhibitors says more than 4.5 million people attend county and state fairs yearly.
Brenda Smego, the executive secretary of the Cass County Fair Association, said she believes that most county fairs won’t be canceled this year— based on recent Zoom meetings she’s attended with other fair officials. She also said that the Cass County Fair, established in 1851, is preparing for a traditional fair Aug. 1-7. Moving forward, Smego said that she believes it will feature attractions such as grandstand events, carnival rides and motocross. “I feel we are in a good position,” she said. “Changes are possible. It also depends on what’s going to happen.”