Natasha Vaughn is reporting for Columbia-Greene Media that planning is underway for the 180th Columbia County Fair, scheduled from September 1 through 6 at the county fairgrounds in Chatham. The fair is bringing back favorites such as the demolition derby, racing pigs, the firefighters’ parade, monster tractor pull and the rodeo. The fair last year was canceled because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the first cancellation in the event’s history, said fair director Angelo Nero. The 2021 edition of the annual event will focus on agriculture and an assortment of local musical acts will perform rather than a single headliner. There are no current plans to require attendees to wear masks at the fair, according to a statement from the fair board. The exception being for unvaccinated fairgoers who are encouraged to mask up while attending. Hand sanitizer will be available throughout the fairgrounds and in restrooms. For the first time ever, the fair will be a smoke-free zone, with smoking allowed only in the parking lot. Bag checks will be required at all entrance gates. A full list of prohibited items is available at columbiafair [dot] com. “We’re still looking for people to work this year,” Nero said. “...If anyone is interested they should give us a call.” Information is available at 518-392-2121 or online at columbiafair [dot] com. Read the full story at HudsonValley360 [dot] com.