Fairs and fairground events are annual highlights for towns and organizations alike. Rides, games, concerts, food vendors and exhibits are focal points for community bonding. But the attractions and entertainment can create substantial risks for event organizers.
Fairs are a balancing act. They require planning and a keen imagination for both what is possible and what could possibly go wrong. Your insurance agent can help safeguard your event and minimize liabilities without sacrificing the fun.
Fair and fairground insurance includes several coverage options for all types of events, including:
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Agricultural or agribusiness fairs
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State and county fairs
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City and neighborhood festivals
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4-H shows
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Livestock competitions
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Tractor pulls, lawnmower racing and other motorsports
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Art fairs
What is fair and fairground insurance?
Fair and fairground insurance is a kind of program insurance. Program insurance caters to industries or events with specific liabilities, like protection against operational exposures at a county fair. Agencies combine separate insurance policies into one comprehensive plan. Program policies can have many coverages or just a few, but they all provide tailored insurance solutions for specific industry risks.
Fairs and fairgrounds have a lot of risks, especially when food, amusement rides and competitions are involved.
Accidents, equipment malfunctions, extreme weather or other uncontrollable factors could damage property or injure your attendees and staff. Fair and fairground insurance protects you against liability that could disrupt future events or ruin your fair’s image.
Types of coverage for fairs and fairgrounds
Every fair is different, and so are program coverages. General liability insurance is essential for fairground events. It protects against bodily injury and property damage claims, covering everything from rides to food vendors. But there are exclusions. You’ll need supplemental policies to fill those gaps in coverage. Your insurance agent can find the best program for you.
Here are some liability risks and their insurance solutions:
Finding the ideal insurance provider and sorting the details
The table above is not an exhaustive list of exposures or coverages. Discuss every event and attraction you plan on hosting at your fair. That way, your agent can shop for the right insurance programs.
Your agent will explain your coverage limits and deductible. Your coverage limits are the most your insurance company will pay for any accident. Your deductible is the amount you must pay before your insurance company makes payments on your behalf. If you have program coverage with several policy types, you might have different deductibles and exclusions on each of them.
Verify the exclusions and limits on each policy type. For example, a general liability policy will not cover employee injuries. It only covers customer injuries. You’d need workers’ compensation coverage for volunteers and employees.
You can even get year-round coverage during the off-season, such as general liability for attractive nuisances and property damage.
Call your agent for a risk review of your fair
Fair and fairground insurance safeguards against uncertainties, ensuring your favorite community events continue year after year. It isn’t just a legal obligation or an extra expense but a preventive measure to protect you, your staff and your attendees.
