Wabash Valley Fairgrounds Code of Conduct

The Wabash Valley Fair Association (WVFA) is committed to providing a safe, welcoming, and enjoyable experience for all guests, exhibitors, staff, and volunteers. By entering the Wabash Valley Fairgrounds, you agree to abide by this Code of Conduct.

Core Expectations for All Guests

All persons on the Fairgrounds should expect an environment where:

Respectful Behavior: Guests shall be treated with courtesy and professionalism by all WVFA personnel and, in turn, shall show respect and courtesy to all staff, volunteers, exhibitors, and fellow guests.
Appropriate Attire: Guests shall wear appropriate attire at all times, including shoes and shirts. Clothing containing obscene, offensive, or indecent messages, symbols, or graphics is prohibited.
Conduct and Language: Guests shall enjoy the Fair free from disruptive or disorderly behavior. This includes, but is not limited to, using foul or offensive language, making obscene gestures, fighting, engaging in intimidating, or verbally or physically harassing others.
Alcohol and Substance Use: Alcoholic beverages must be consumed responsibly by guests of legal age and only in designated areas. Intervention with an impaired, intoxicated, or underage guest shall be handled promptly by staff. The use or possession of illegal drugs or substances is strictly forbidden.
Weapons Prohibition: Weapons of any kind are prohibited at the Wabash Valley Fairgrounds, with the exception of items carried by on-duty law enforcement or as explicitly permitted for certain events by the WVFA Board.
Compliance: Guests shall comply immediately with all requests and instructions from WVFA staff, security, or public safety officials regarding operations, safety procedures, and emergency response.

Safety, Property, and Regulations

Prohibited Activities: Guests shall not engage in activities that could endanger others, damage property, or interfere with Fair operations. Vandalism, theft, or destruction of WVFA property or the property of others will result in immediate ejection and possible legal action.
Restricted Areas: Guests must not enter restricted, roped-off, or non-public areas of the Fairgrounds (e.g., barns, exhibit preparation areas, maintenance facilities, administrative offices).
Smoking/Vaping: Smoking and vaping are permitted in designated outdoor areas only. They are prohibited inside all Fairgrounds buildings and within eight (8) feet of any building entrance.
Animals/Pets: Only service animals, as defined by the ADA, are allowed in public exhibition and building areas. Pets must be on a leash in designated outdoor areas and are subject to all local ordinances. Guests are prohibited from touching, feeding, or otherwise interfering with exhibit animals without permission from the handler or staff.
Vehicles: All vehicles, including golf carts, ATVs, scooters, and bicycles, must be operated safely and follow posted traffic and parking regulations. Parking in fire lanes is strictly prohibited.

Exhibitor and Competition Ethics (If Applicable)

Exhibitor Integrity: All exhibitors, their parents, family, and agents are expected to abide by the rules of the event and the standards of the National Code of Show Ring Ethics (if livestock is present). Misrepresentation of ownership, age, or facts related to an exhibit is prohibited.
Sportsmanship: Direct criticism or interference with judges, show management, or other officials before, during, or after a competitive event is prohibited. Good sportsmanship is expected at all times.

Enforcement and Consequences

WVFA staff, security, and law enforcement are trained to intervene when necessary to ensure the above expectations are met.

Guests are encouraged to report any inappropriate behavior or safety concerns to the nearest staff member immediately.
The Wabash Valley Fair Association, Inc. reserves the right to deny admission, eject, or ban any individual who violates this Code of Conduct, without refund.
Violations may also be subject to state law or local ordinances, resulting in possible arrest and/or prosecution.
The WVFA Board reserves the right to remove any displays, exhibits, or items considered objectionable or offensive to fellow guests.

We are committed to hosting events that are welcoming and safe for all members of the Wabash Valley community and beyond.