The days are ticking toward the scheduled opening of the 2020 New York State Fair. The Governor hasn’t said whether the State is planning to go forward, even as many county fairs, the Syracuse Nationals and countless other festivals have cancelled due to the health crisis.
Current data suggests that there’s a good chance that the Fair, slated to open on Aug. 21, can go on with minimal risk.
Consider this: Onondaga County, with a population of over 460,000 residents, has confirmed fewer than 2200 cases of coronavirus. That’s a very small number of cases for a county this size.
Of course, part of the reason for the low count is the tight restrictions that have helped to minimize the spread. On the other hand, those most vulnerable, especially nursing home patients, make up a disproportionately high number of the total count. The number on the streets is significantly lower.
With the entire region essentially shut down, the Fair hasn’t made any announcements in the past few weeks of acts booked for the Fair, especially at the major concert venues. Meanwhile, most concerts scheduled at other venues are postponed or canceled.
Some events have decided to hold “virtual” versions of themselves, though sometimes it’s completely ridiculous. Certainly some traditional Fair entertainment could be streamed on the website, while other events–a fireworks show, for instance–could be held live with people spaced far apart.
But a virtual Fair wouldn’t work. If you can’t stuff your face with fried food, pet a cow, watch the Iroquois dance or put your kids on rides, it’s not the State Fair. 
The reaction of citizens to the phased reopening has been enthusiastic and it seems to be going well. People need to get out and enjoy life if it can be done in relative safety. That’s what the State Fair is all about and why it’s so important to let the show go on.
Analysis continues, but from The Hound’s perspective the New York State Fair, perhaps with modifications, is vital to the psyche of our community. Cancellation would be overly cautious and a devastating blow to the spirit of New York.
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