The coronavirus crisis has led to the cancellation of a number of events planned for a Central Coast fairgrounds, as well as the layoffs of about 40 part-time workers. The Santa Maria Fairpark has pulled the plug on all April events, including the popular Santa Maria Strawberry Festival. Nearly all part-time and weekend security staff has been laid off.
At this point, planning is continuing for events in May, as well as for the Santa Barbara County Fair in July. Officials are hoping to reschedule the Strawberry Festival for October.
