SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) – Among several new features at this year’s Illinois State Fair will be an unwelcome one: COVID-19. The potentially deadly virus forced cancellation of last year’s fair for the first time since World War II. This year, organizers are taking safety precautions. They are following federal guidelines by requiring face coverings when indoors or at Grandstand events and encouraging them when in large crowds. There will be six free vaccination sites on the grounds as well. Organizers are eager to return the fair to Springfield after a year off and are touting several new exhibitions and carnival rides.
