Contributed by Melissa Keefe
As Alaska continues to respond to the global pandemic, the Alaska State Fair will implement a series of safety precautions intended to protect the health of fairgoers, staff, volunteers, vendors, entertainers and others at the 2021 Fair.
Earlier this year, the Fair announced an extended 14-day schedule to help spread out the crowds and keep everyone as safe as possible. Fairgoers are encouraged to purchase parking and admission tickets in advance online at alaskastatefair.org to better estimate attendance and to help keep the public safe.
“This will help us predict crowd sizes and manage our resources to keep patrons safe,” said Jerome Hertel, Fair CEO. “Purchasing tickets online is a contactless transaction that reduces the spread of germs.”
The Fair does not anticipate daily attendance limits at this time, Hertel added. Fair organizers will continue to monitor current CDC guidelines and are working closely with local, state and federal health agencies.
Other safety measures planned for the 2021 Fair include:
Additional handwashing and sanitizing stations will be available throughout the fairgrounds.
High-use areas will be cleaned and disinfected regularly.
Contactless transactions are encouraged. Skip the line, buy online-don’t wait at the Gate.
Face coverings will not be required for fair guests but are strongly encouraged for those not fully vaccinated and in highly congested areas. Face coverings will be available at all indoor exhibit buildings.
Fairgoers are encouraged to practice social distancing where possible.
Patrons are asked to stay home if sick or experiencing symptoms of illness.
The 2021 Fair, themed Seeing is Believing, will be held Friday, August 20, through Monday, September 6, at the fairgrounds in Palmer. Hours will be 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. daily. The Fair will be closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays (August 24 – 25 and August 31 – September 1) for additional cleaning and disinfecting.
For more information, visit alaskastatefair.org