MONROE – The Green County Fair has been canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It’s with much disappointment that … this year’s 167th Green County Fair, which was to be held July 15 to 19, 2020, is being canceled,” fair organizers said in a press release.

Green County joined Rock County and Stephenson County in Illinois to shutter its summer fair. The Lafayette County Fair is still expected to be held July 15 to 19 in Darlington.

“Planning the fair takes a huge investment of time, energy and money. The fair board tries extremely hard to ensure the safety of every person who comes to our grounds every year. But with this year, the feasibility of keeping thousands of our friends and family safe weighed deeply on us,” the statement said. “The difficulties involved in social distancing, potential of only limited numbers allowed in the gates, and the liability involved were just some of the challenges.”

The board also mentioned the economic impact on the area from COVID-19, stating that “many of our sponsors, exhibitors, volunteers and community members are experiences financial hardship due to the current situation. We felt as a board it was unfair for us to ask for more during this time to sponsor and participate in this event.”

The 2021 Green County Fair is scheduled for July 21-25.