Upcoming Colorado State Fair remains scaled back due to pandemic but adding some events

PUEBLO, Colo. (KRDO) -- Although the COVID-19 pandemic has canceled much of the traditional entertainment and will significantly reduce attendance at this year's state fair, organizers say they have added some creative options for people.

The fair, which began in 1872, will be held from August 28 through September 7 at the state fairgrounds in Pueblo.

When organizers announced several months ago that the fair would be scaled back because of the COVID-19 pandemic, they also said that time and an improved public health situation could increase the number of events.

As it turns out, that wasn't the case.

For the most part, spectators won't be allowed and there will be no rodeo, concerts or similar crowd entertainment at the fairgrounds.

However, some events have been added, including: A drive-thru setup allowing people to purchase fair food; a virtual day camp for kids; video competitions for 4-H Club and Future Farmers of America contestants; and free on-demand videos providing contests and other entertainment.

Vannessa Tranel, a state 4-H specialist, said the pandemic has created a different atmosphere for the competitions in the exhibit halls.

"That part's a little bit disappointing because the kids can't come and see their projects that were here, or bring their parents or grandparents," she said. "But we're thankful the state fair allowed us to be here. So many counties canceled their fairs this year."

Competitions began August 3 to spread them out and minimize the number of contestants on the fairgrounds at any one time. Many of the competitions will be in a virtual format, conducted online.

In June, organizers said there would be a "limited" carnival at the fair, but general manager Scott Stoller said that idea eventually was scrapped.

"The numbers haven't improved enough," he said. "We were worried in July, when the numbers spiked, that we might have to cancel the entire fair. Our top priority is keeping people safe, and we didn't think we could do that with a carnival."

The theme of this year's event is "The Colorado State Fair -- Reimagined."

Fair organizers expect to make an announcement Monday about whether the slopper-eating contest will return for the second year.

For more information about the fair, visit: https://www.coloradostatefair.com/.