The Belmont County Fair will go on as planned this year, with a few modifications to keep everyone safe.

You’ll also notice some improvements to the fairgrounds.

“When some of the restrictions were lifted, we decided to go ahead and go with the full fair,” explained ed Campbell, Belmont County Agricultural Society President.

Campbell has been in contact with fair board members and the health department to make sure the fair follows the recommended health guidelines.

“We will have a lot more sanitation sites set up throughout the fairgrounds,” he said. “Wash stations, hand sanitizers, we’ll have a crew going in through the restrooms, shower houses.”

Food vendors will be set up. They must wear masks, but as for the public, Campbell says masks are recommended, but not required.

Rides will up and running, as well. Social distancing in line is a must.

“Constant sanitizing of the rides for everybody,” he said.

In the show and sale arena, seats will be spread out.

“We will be cutting the classes back to so many in the ring at a time, we will keep them spaced out,” Campbell said. “The judge will have to keep their distance while judging the animals.”

The fair is also expected to receive $50,000 dollars from the state to make safety improvements to the junior fair portion. And, visitors will notice some changes to the walkways.

“Putting concrete in,” Campbell said. “The one side of the barn area will have the other side graveled this year. It is in the works to have blacktopping put down this year.”

The fair is scheduled to take place from September 8-13. The fair board will continue to meet until then to discuss further changes.