For now, fair plans modified 4-H judging
Staff Writer
Organizers have canceled the Marion County Fair, but elements of the annual event will go forward with modified 4-H and livestock judging.
“We are trying to have some type of fair regardless,” county extension agent Tristen Cope said. “We have made several modifications as things have progressed.”
Only immediate family will be invited to attend the dog show, food and clothing judging, style review, and livestock shows. Organizers are working on live-streaming those events.
Food, clothing, and style judging have been moved to Hillsboro United Methodist Church to allow greater social distancing. Masks will be strongly encouraged at all events.
Plans still are subject to change, however, Cope said.
“It has been very difficult; really, it has,” she said. “It is a joke at the office that we are on ‘Plan M,’ but we could even be on ‘Plan R’ by the time we are done with the fair.”
By this time, judges are usually are getting everything packed up and ready to move to the fairgrounds. That has not been possible this year.
“But 4-H is a big part of our community, and we are making sure we are giving everyone the opportunity to showcase their efforts,” Cope said.
Schedule as of press time
- Saturday – 8:30 a.m. dog show, fairgrounds.
- Sunday – 5:30 p.m. horse show, fairgrounds.
- Monday – 9:30 a.m. clothing judging, 1 p.m. foods, 7 p.m. style review, all at Hillsboro United Methodist Church.
- Tuesday – Livestock shows at fairgrounds, schedule undecided.
- Wednesday – 6:30 p.m. livestock and project auction, fairgrounds.