Cal Expo’s board decided to cancel the 2020 California State Fair and Food Festival scheduled for July 17 – August 2, 2020 until the following year, due to the extensive challenges posed by the COVID-19 public health crisis. “While we had remained hopeful the California State Fair would be able to continue our 166-year tradition of showcasing the best of California and entertaining the state’s residents and families, it’s clear the impact of COVID-19 will continue to be felt for the foreseeable future and that large gatherings should be postponed at this time,” explained Cal Expo General Manager and CEO Rick Pickering on behalf of the Cal Expo Board.
However, cancelling the fair and many of the 200 year-round events at Cal Expo creates its own set of economic challenges.
“We are sensitive to the fact Cal Expo is a regional, economic engine that generates sales tax revenue and employs over 800 seasonal workers. Our staff is working diligently on a strategy to safely reopen when appropriate and we look forward to the time when we can all gather again safely to celebrate the great things Californians have done and will do in the future,” noted Pickering.
Currently, Cal Expo is playing a regional role in the effort to combat the virus, including serving as a drive-through testing site, as well as a temporary emergency isolation trailer facility for homeless individuals who have been exposed or infected.
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