Salem, Virginia – The Salem Fair, a beloved annual event, is set to return for its 35th year from June 28th to July 9th, but with notable changes to ensure safety and security. In previous years, the fair was open until 11 pm and even midnight on weekends.
However, this year, the fair will close at 10 pm every night. Additionally, new safety measures will be implemented, including bag checks and electronic wanding at the entry gate, and electronic screenings with a minimum age requirement.
For the first time, attendees will be required to use clear see-through bags instead of traditional pocketbooks to prevent any security breaches. While some comments regarding this policy were positive, one person raised a valid concern about the clear bag’s practicality on a wheelchair. Fair officials have not yet released information on whether they will make exceptions for wheelchair-bound guests.
Moreover, those under 17 must be accompanied by an adult over 18 with a valid ID, a change from previous years when teenagers enjoyed the fair without adult supervision. Such restrictions have become necessary due to the need for additional safety precautions to decrease possible violence.
Last year, the fair experienced a significant uptick in violent incidents, leading to the installation of added security measures for the 2022 event. The James Drew exhibition ceased to appear at the Roanoke Civic Center due to the number of fights that occurred. Thus, the organizers are optimistic that these measures will deter any future incidents and ensure the continued success of this much-loved event.
