In an announcement made on Thursday, after much deliberation and review of the current State and CDC guidelines and restrictions due to COVID-19, the Hillsdale County Fair Board of Directors met and voted unanimously to cancel the 2020 Hillsdale County Fair.

In a post made on Facebook, fair officials cited, "This decision was not an easy one, and not taken lightly, but with the advice of our insurance provider, legal counsel, the local health department and MSU Extension."

Officials also discussed their disappointment in having to make the decision and wish that circumstances were different. In the end, the greatest concern was with the health and wellbeing of volunteers, exhibitors, as well as patrons.

The fair board is recommending that 4H/FFA exhibitors be offered a virtual showcase as a means of completing their project work.