Bag checks added to measures at Columbia County Fair, thanks to new alcohol rules

Those who wish to enter the Columbia County Fair and Rodeo or imbibe there will have to adhere to some new rules.

The fair, which opens Wednesday, July 17, is announcing that its new “walk around” alcohol license regulations require bag checks at all entrance gates. In years past, alcohol consumption was relegated solely to the beer and wine garden. But this year, adults can bring alcohol purchased at the fair around to other attractions.

“This (bag check) policy is in place to ensure compliance with our new alcohol regulations and to enhance the safety and security of our event,” the fair announced.

Also, no open liquid containers are allowed into the fairgrounds, although nonbreakable water bottles are permitted, as are sealed water bottles. Filled, unsealed bottles will have to be dumped before guests can enter the fairgrounds.

The regulations require that all alcoholic beverages be consumed within the fairgrounds and that alcohol must be finished before exiting the fairgrounds.

“The Elks provide the alcohol for the fair,” Fair Board President Peggy Howell said. “In years past, it has been a beer garden with a fence around it.”

Howell noted, “Many of the fairs around the state have gone to what they call ‘walk-around’ alcohol, so it’s not just confined to one spot. In some of the classes we’ve gone to, they’ve found there isn’t as much overindulgence or overdrinking because Mom and Dad can stay together if they’re out there with the kids and one of them doesn’t have to go in the beer garden and not be with the family during the event.”

Howell said the Elks, as well as security, will have alcohol monitors.