This year's Wisconsin State Fair uncertain, but still scheduled

WEST ALLIS (CBS 58) -- It’s the event Wisconsinites from all across the state look forward to during the summer, but the fate of this year's  State Fair is up in the air, due to the pandemic.

The State Fair Board of Directors said they have not made a formal decision on whether this year’s fair will go on as planned, but they’re considering many factors.

Last year, the event attracted more than 1-million visitors and 600 vendors, like Pistol Pete’s, an American and Italian restuarant.

“I did spend all that money last year, building that up and putting it where it is today and hoping this year would be a better year, that I can recoup my investment, but obviously, no one knows at this point,” said Peter Faraciano, owner of Pistol Pete’s Neighborhood Grill in Brookfield.

The fair is scheduled for August 6-16, but the situation is further complicated by the alternative care facility that was built at the Expo Center for COVID-19 patients. The site, however, has not started accepting patients.

In the meantime, vendors like Pistol Pete's would like to see the fair go on.

“The farmers, the people, our interaction, what we’re doing," he said.  "It’s heartbreaking. I don’t want it to be down for this year. Give it a chance, give it a try. People in Wisconsin are ready for it.”

The board said they don’t know when the alternative care site will be removed from the Expo enter.

It’s not clear when they will make a formal decision on this year’s fair.