Every year, the Florida State Fair in Tampa is touted as the first state fair of the year, giving it a jump on displays, rides and culinary creations such as a Cheeseburger on a Stick.But with the coronavirus laying waste to events around the country, the fair’s board of directors has voted to postpone the event until April. It was originally scheduled for Feb. 11-22. An exact date hasn’t been determined and will be based on health and safety developments, a spokeswoman said.“The Florida State Fair competitions, entertainment, carnival and other attractions and activities will now be rescheduled for some time in April, pending COVID-19 health status,” a news release from the fair authority said. The fair’s Market Steer and Swine show competitions will still be held in February, as previously announced.“With no guarantees in our current environment, moving the dates of the Florida State Fair to April 2021 provides a better opportunity to host the large event,” the statement said.The annual event regularly draws about 400,000 visitors each year.The fair’s origins trace back to the late 1890s, when railroad mogul Henry B. Plant hosted events to dazzle guests at his Tampa Bay Hotel, the minaret-studded building that is now known as Plant Hall at the University of Tampa.The first fair, then called the South Florida Fair, was held on Plant Field in the winter of 1904.Guests who pre-purchased tickets to 2021′s fair on the Florida State Fair’s website will be given the option to transfer tickets for the rescheduled dates or receive a refund. For a detailed schedule of upcoming events, visit floridastatefair.com . Time staff writer Gabrielle Calise contributed to this report. • • • HOW CORONAVIRUS IS SPREADING IN FLORIDA: Find the latest numbers for your county, city or zip code. VACCINES Q & A: Have coronavirus vaccine questions? We have answers, Florida. FACE MASKS: Read the latest on guidelines, tips for comfort and long-term wear GET THE DAYSTARTER MORNING UPDATE: Sign up to receive the most up-to-date information . THE CORONAVIRUS SCRAPBOOK: We collected your stories, pictures, songs, recipes, journals and more to show what life has been like during the pandemic. A TRIBUTE TO THE FLORIDIANS TAKEN BY THE CORONAVIRUS: They were parents and retirees, police officer and doctors, imperfect but loved deeply. HAVE A TIP?: Send us confidential news tips We’re working hard to bring you the latest news on the coronavirus in Florida. This effort takes a lot of resources to gather and update. If you haven’t already subscribed, please consider buying a print or digital subscription.
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