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Virginia’s oldest agricultural fair canceled in its 85th year due to pandemic

Fair canceled only one other time during WWII

Newport Fair, the oldest agricultural fair in the state, cancelled due to pandemic. (Newport Agricultural Fair)

NEWPORT, Va. – A title-holding event now adds another milestone to its rich history.

The Newport Agricultural Fair, Virginia’s oldest agricultural fair, has been canceled for 2020. The annual two-day event is an important community gathering in Giles County that has long been a treasured tradition. Usually held in August, the fair features the best of the community’s agricultural heritage and the beloved Miss Newport pageant. 2020 would have been its 85th year.

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The fair was established in 1935 and attracts thousands of people each year.

Newport Agricultural Fair Board of Director President Kevin Law made the announcement the 2020 fair would be canceled, only the second time to happen in it’s history.

According to an article written by Bill Vincel, during the war years the Newport Fair was cancelled from 1942 to 1946 as all energies were being directed to the war effort. The fair was started up again in 1947.

“We encourage everyone to please share their favorite photos and memories of past fairs to keep this tradition alive. The Fair Board of Directors plans to continue the fair in 2021. Stay safe and healthy,” Law said in a statement.


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Watch Rachel anchor weekdays during 10 News at 5, 5:30, 6 and 7 p.m. Rachel also specializes in health reporting and provides daily reports during HealthWatch. A Southwest Virginia native, Rachel takes pride in covering local news for the place she calls home.