Big Iron Farm Show officials say public safety will be emphasized at this year's event and that a number of safety measures will be in force.
The annual farm show, held Sept. 15-17 at the Red River Valley Fairgrounds in West Fargo, N.D., typically draws about 60,000 people over three days. It's expected to draw roughly half that number this year because of the coronavirus pandemic, said Big Iron Farm Show Committee Chairman Dave Gehrtz.
"We really are concerned about the health and safety of everyone who will be involved," he said.
Among the safety measures:
- Hand sanitizer stations and portable hand washing stations will be available throughout the fairgrounds.
- Food vendors and Big Iron staff will wear face masks. Masks are encouraged, but not mandated, for visitors.
- Each building will have one designated entrance and one designated exit. All doors that can be open will be open.
- Exhibitor booths will be spaced throughout the grounds to provide more space between exhibits.
- The food court will move to another part of the grounds to provide additional space.
- Restrooms will be cleaned frequently.
- People movers will be cleaned frequently.
- Beer will be served in single-use disposable cups.
- There will be no exhibitor picnic, no peanuts allowed and no pancake breakfast.
- The show office will move to the downstairs of the Schollander Pavilion at the ticket booth.
- The show will work with Cass County Public Health (West Fargo is in Cass County) to provide the safest layout.
