For the second straight year, COVID-19 has slammed the brakes on the Western Fair.
The Western Fair Association management and Board of Governors announced Tuesday that the 2021 edition of the fair, which was to take place September 10-19, has been cancelled due to the ongoing pandemic. In a statement released to the media, officials say that, while they are encouraged by Ontario's three step reopening strategy, there isn't enough time to plan a traditional fair.
“It was a tremendously difficult decision to cancel our signature event for a second consecutive year,” said CEO Reg Ash. “But, given the current timelines, we felt this was the right decision in consideration of the health and safety of our staff and community as well as the uncertainty that exists around when, and to what extent, mass gatherings will be permitted at that time.”
Ash added that they will start planning for the 2022 edition of the fair.
While there will not be a traditional fair again this year, officials say there will be some in-person events, as well as those that will be held online, including the 2021 Creative Arts competition and the Rise 2 Fame youth talent competition.
We are disappointed to share the news that the Western Fair has been cancelled for 2021. Here's a message from our CEO:
— WesternFair District (@WesternFair) June 15, 2021
Read more -> https://t.co/MEWqbHqE6N pic.twitter.com/QZgCTVP5h1
Those who had purchased advanced tickets to the 2021 Western Fair will be issued refunds and should receive them before July 31.
