The 2020 Great Allentown Fair announced its cancellation on Wednesday morning.

A post on the Allentown Fair Facebook page said, “After much thought and consideration, the health and well-being of fairgoers, employees and the fair’s many dedicated and loyal partners was paramount in the recent decision of the Lehigh County Agricultural Society concerning the 2020 edition of The Great Allentown Fair.

“Citing the state mandated guidelines and the many complexities of the COVID-19 virus, the executive committee has canceled this year’s fair.”

The Allentown Fair, which originated in 1852, is almost 170 years old.

As for next year, the 2021 dates are confirmed Aug. 31-Sept. 6.

Beverly Gruber, Lehigh County Agriculture Society President, owns and operates the fair.

“We took into account all aspects that go into producing a safe premier event and ultimately the health and welfare of the thousands of local, out-of-town and out-of-state fairgoers, exhibitors, vendors and entertainers was paramount in our decision,” Gruber said in a press release.

According to the release, two of the grandstand concerts were postponed until 2021; Toby Keith and Carrie Underwood will both perform next year. All tickets purchased for these 2020 shows will be valid for 2021.

Gruber said the committee was cautiously preparing for the fair since March, but it seemed no longer feasible.

“We feel it’s best to work toward a celebratory 2021 fair that we will strive to make better than ever,” she said.