TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) – Community members go to Fairbanks Park and Vigo County Fairgrounds on Friday for the start of fairs and festivals, under stage 4.5 of Governor Holcomb’s Back on Track Indiana plan.
Friday evening, dozens of community members headed to Fairbanks Park for Summerfest 2020.
It’s an event that is taking the place of the annual Banks of the Wabash Festival, which was cancelled due to COVID-19.
Some of those in attendance on Friday say the event brings a sigh of relief.
“I’ve been stuck in the house all day after work. So it’s good to be out and have a little fun, get the endorphins going,” said Clayton Thompson, Terre Haute resident.
Summerfest includes rides, games, and food, but it also includes extra safety and health measures.
Around Fairbanks Park there is signage to promote social distancing, extra cleaning of rides after every use, and hand sanitizing stations.
“We’re doing everything we can to the safest of our ability to have a safe environment. Our families are here ourselves and we would not be putting on this event if we didn’t think we were putting it on safely,” said Andrew Schoendienst, GM of Luehr’s Ideal Rides.
Also on Friday, the Vigo County Fair held its first night of activities, starting with a tractor pull.
Due to the pandemic festivities like rides were cancelled and the 4-H show was moved to a virtual format.
“When I come to the fair I’m used to seeing the rides and the 4-H because I always had family members do the 4-H,” said Evan Fulk, Terre Haute resident.
But Fulk says he is just happy that the event is happening at all, considering the current circumstances.
“Being stuck at home, it’s hard you get bore, you get down. But being able to come out and enjoy yourself with your fellow community, it’s just amazing that we’re able to start doing stuff more,” Fulk said.
Both events will continue over coming days.
The Vigo County Fair also does have signage encouraging those in attendance to socially distance.
