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2020 Farm Progress Show canceled due to coronavirus pandemic

The first show was held in Armstrong, Illinois in 1953. The show now alternates between Decatur, Illinois and Boone, Iowa.

BOONE, Iowa — The Farm Progress Show has been canceled for only the second time in its 67-year history.

The annual farming trade and training show won't take place due to the COVID-19 pandemic

Husker Harvest Days has also been canceled for this year, and will next be held Sept. 14-16, 2021. 2020 marks the first year ever where neither event will be held.

"We have been working with officials in Iowa and Nebraska for our shows, and we appreciate the support they expressed for us to hold the events," Farm Progress Senior Vice President Don Tourte said in a release. "They are critical partners to us, and we are all disappointed to not host the events this year, but feel confident that this is the right decision for our community.”

Organizers said virtual events will be held for those still looking to learn more about the latest in agriculture technology.

"When we put out our word that we were gonna go forward with the event [two weeks ago], it caused reaction in the community," Farm Progress Events Manager Matt Jungmann told Local 5. "Some of the exhibitors stepped away and some of the volunteers that it takes to operate the event stepped away."

Jungmann said the show brings out around 150,000 people over the course of three days.

The first show was held in Armstrong, Illinois. in 1953. The show now alternates between Decatur, Illinois and Boone, Iowa.

Next year's Farm Progress Show is scheduled for Aug. 31, Sept. 1 & Sept. 2, 2021 in Decatur, Illinois.

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