For the past few months the South Windsor Jaycees Foundation held out hope, worked out alternatives and juggled plans for the 2020 Wapping Fair with the intention the current health situation COVID-19 would allow the fair to safely operate without sacrificing the quality of entertainment and food options. Unfortunately, we have reached the point of having to make the heart breaking decision that in the best interest to all the 128th Wapping Fair will not take place this year.
In the end numerous factors played a part in this decision. Numerous attractions and vendors had canceled their seasons would have lessened the excitement attendees have come to expect and a limited attendance tendency would place the fair at financial risk. But first and foremost is our highest priority is to ensure the safety and health of our fairgoers, exhibitors, vendors, volunteers and entertainers. Connecticut is amongst the leaders in the country in reducing cases and hospitalizations while the majority of the country has seen the opposite. The efforts of the state’s residents in maintaining social distancing, wearing masks and avoiding large gatherings have all played a part in keeping us safe and we did not want to risk the progress made.
With so many variables uncertain (public welfare, lack of quality event, financial impact) the Jaycees reached the difficult and decision to cancel the 128th Wapping Fair with much sadness. The fair committee had been working diligently for the past 8 months already and were eager to present the new innovations. Now this will have to wait until 2021, when the fair will take place Sept 9 – 12.
While we know no event can make up for the fun and excitement of the fair, the Jaycees will continue to monitor the situation and if we can provide a safe environment we will make every effort to coordinate an awesome community event over the next few months.
Thanks to many successful fairs, the Jaycees have donated almost $20,000 in funds to the South Windsor Human Services and numerous other non-profit organizations and will continue to do so.
Thank you for your past support and we look forward to seeing all of you soon
Paul Petrillo
President
South Windsor Jaycees Foundation Inc
860-573-6780
