NEW YORK STATE - On Monday, Governor Andrew Cuomo announced that the 2020 Great New York State Fair would be cancelled to ensure the health and safety of New Yorkers and all fairgoers.

According to New York State Fair Director Troy Waffner, this is the second time in the Fair’s long history that it has been necessary to cancel the State Fair: the first was during World War II, and now in 2020, due to the Coronavirus pandemic. In a statement, Waffner said in both cases, the cause was just and proper: to protect people.

“We are proud to put on the Great New York State Fair and provide a showcase for the best of New York agriculture, but our number one concern is always the health and safety of our fairgoers, vendors and staff,” said Waffner. “Those who bought tickets for this year’s Fair during our special sale will be able to use them next year or get refunds, with details to come on that.”

Waffner said last year’s purchased tickets that would have been honored this year will be honored in 2021, and vendors who sent in deposits will receive full refunds.

“We dearly wish we could hold the Fair this year and know that one day soon we will come out of the darkness,” he said. “When we do, the things we enjoy and the people we love will be there.”

“This is a difficult chapter in our history, but it is only one chapter and the next chapter will be our best ever. We will see you next August. Until then, stay safe and be strong.”