The Michigan Association of Fairs & Exhibitions has sent a letter to Michigan’s legislators voicing concerns if state orders and regulations decide there may not be a fair or festival season. Some of the draft plan language in both the House and Senate could prevent the events from taking place in 2020. This uncertainty is making decision making for any fair or festival difficult. The group is asking lawmakers, as they make plans to reopen Michigan, that outdoor assemblies such as fairs and festivals be allowed to operate in earlier phases, under strict guidelines. They noted that fairgrounds are used for many things throughout the year, but may rely on the revenue raised each year at the annual fair. The letter said cancellation of the entire fair season, which is likely under the criteria being proposed at the moment, will also result in significant losses to area fair boards and local charities. Currently, plans are still underway for both the Sanilac and St. Clair County fairs, as well as other festivals such as the Thumb Festival and Yale Bologna Festival.
