COBB COUNTY, Ga. — For the first time since World War II, the North Georgia State Fair has been canceled this year due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The fair was supposed to be held from Sept. 24 to Oct. 4 at Jim R. Miller Park in Marietta. The fair is the largest annual event in Cobb County and features rides, food, live music and experiences like a petting zoo, alligator show, magicians and a lumber jack show.

Officials said every effort was made to find a way to continue with the fair this year, but weren't able to due to public health concerns. Jim R. Miller Park is being used as a COVID-19 testing site through the end of the year.

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“We wanted to delay the decision as long as possible to offer every opportunity to devise an effective plan,” Cobb County Fair Association President Frank Wigington said, “But after meeting with county officials and hearing their plans for the continued use of the park, we realized there were no options available left for us.”

Fair Manager Tod Miller remains hopeful going forward, “Now, more than ever, our community needs positivity and strength,” Miller said. “We look forward to being back with you next year, stronger and better than ever.”

Officials said they are working to launch a drive-through food experience, The Taste of the Fair, that would take place over the course of two weekends, Sept. 26 - 28 and Oct. 2 - 4, in the main parking lot of Jim R. Miller Park.

Cox Media Group