(KMJ) – The Big Fresno Fair says it will “reinvent” itself this year as it adapts its traditional event into a series of drive-thru and virtual experiences in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic in Fresno County.
Over the past few months, Fair Management and staff say they have been monitoring the situation with COVID-19 and working through a number of operational plans to align with local, state and CDC guidelines in order to provide the community some aspect of this longstanding Fresno Count tradition.
“Our goal has always been to bring an aspect of this beloved tradition to our community in a healthy and safe manner as guided by our health officials,” said Lauri King, Deputy Manager of The Big Fresno Fair. “Now, as we are just two months away from October, we have centered on the decision to move forward with plans for a drive-thru and virtual Fair experience format as it’s the most prudent option to bring our community a bit of Fair fun, while doing our part to protect public health and safety.”
The Big Fresno Fair adds its drive-thru and virtual hybrid format is already being utilized by other large fairs throughout California – like the San Diego Fair, the Orange County Fair and California State Fair.
While plans continue to be developed, the drive-thru Fair will be an expansion of “Fair Food Feature” events held earlier in the year. It will include a more extensive line-up of Fair food favorites, along with entertainment and other elements to enjoy as vehicles will safely drive through the Fairgrounds. There will also be virtual components like competitive exhibits, the Jr. Livestock Auction.
And The Table Mountain Concert Series in the Paul Paul Theater was canceled earlier this month due to COVID-19 health concerns and tickets have already been refunded. The Fresno Fair adds admission, season passes and Brew Fest tickets purchased for 2020 will be honored for 2021.
