After weeks of rumors that the Eastern Idaho State Fair might change its dates, organizers delivered resounding assurance that nothing is changing during a press conference at the fairgrounds Wednesday.
"The chatter was getting very loud about the fair doing something different in the future," Bird said. "It was pretty important that we cleared the air and made sure that everybody understood they could count on those dates in the future."
The fair will continue as planned, opening on Labor Day weekend, Sept. 3, and running through Sept. 11.
The board's decision to leave the fair as is continues a long tradition. For 124 years, the communities of East Idaho have counted on the fair, and organizers want to make sure they can enjoy it for another 124.
"We've been entrusted to care for that tradition," Bird said. "Our responsibility is to protect it, improve it and make sure it continues — we'll say for another 124 years."
Board of Directors Chairman Dennis Marshall expressed his and the board's excitement to continue the tradition.
"Our ultimate decision is based on what's best for the fair, what's best for the region, and what's best for the youth and the families that have made it such a tradition to attend the fair," Marshall said. "We appreciate the concern behind those questions, and we welcome the opportunity to answer them, and we hope we can put the rumors to rest."
The fair is a major economic driver for the region, generating $74.3 million over those nine days — but it's about much more than money. The memories made and hours spent together unite the region, creating moments that are only experienced within the walls of the fair.
"For nine days, the fair brings East Idaho together," Bird said. "For the rest of the year, we work to build those memories and relationships, and the economic activity all comes together in a way that makes for a great community. We are proud to keep that tradition right where it belongs — on the same fair dates."