WESTLOCK – The annual Westlock Agricultural Fair & Rodeo has been cancelled for 2020.
In a May 1 letter, Westlock & District Agricultural Society president Bob Jones announced the cancellation of the event scheduled for Aug. 14-16.
This year’s fair would’ve been the 106th year it ran.
“This was not a decision that was made lightly and with these steps as well as our continuing concern of the health and well-being of our community, we are unable to host this year’s event,” wrote Jones.
There is no indication from the Ag Society that the 2020 event will be rescheduled this year. Instead, organizers invited their attendees to the next fair in 2021.
Jones explained that the COVID-19 pandemic and the banning of large gatherings have led to that decision. Currently, gatherings larger than 15 people are prohibited under Alberta Health Services measures.
The provincial government has begun a phased re-opening program. Phase 1 began May 14, but restrictions for gatherings will remain in place. No date has been set on the next two phases.
Coronavirus testing is continuing, and premier Jason Keneny said moving onto the next phase is contingent on stability or decrease in cases.
Andreea Resmerita, TownandCountryToday.com
Follow me on Twitter @andreea_res
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