This year’s California Mid-State Fair still up in the air, board remains undecided on its future

PASO ROBLES, Calif. -- The future of this year's California Mid-State Fair remains unknown.

On Wednesday morning, the fair's Board of Directors discussed the status of the event, but did not make a final decision determining its fate.

Board members are weighing several options as they continue to monitor the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The fair is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year and is still scheduled for July 22-August 2.

However, due to current crowd restrictions and health concerns, it's unknown how or if the California Mid-State Fair can be held.

Board members are discussing three options, cancellation, postponement or modification.

During the two hour long virtual meeting, board members were not able to come up with a decision on one of those three options.

Instead, it was determined a decision would be made during a future meeting, likely before the next regularly scheduled board meeting on June 17.

The board's financial committee recommended cancellation.

At stake will be the future of an event that draws more than 400,000 people during the 10-day run.

The popular event is a huge economic driver to the Paso Robles community and entire San Luis Obispo County region, providing at least $90 million in related revenue annually.

Several concerts are still scheduled for the Chumash Grandstand Arena for the 2020 Bud Light Concert Series, including Pentatonix, Carrie Underwood, Eric Church, and Dan + Shay.

However, interim fair CEO Colleen Bojorquez said during Wednesday's meeting that it is highly unlikely high-capacity concerts would be allowed by the state during the time of the fair.

In addition, it was reported ticket sales have been sluggish, both for concerts and general admission.

During the meeting, board members expressed firm commitment to the junior livestock program.

Board members emphasized that no matter what decision is made about fair, junior livestock exhibitors will be assisted in their efforts to sell livestock.

The livestock auction raised over $2 million last year.