LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Kentucky State Fair kicked off Thursday with some different safety policies that gave guests a bit of a different feel. Masks are required to be worn indoors and the signs are posted at entrances. However, there's little being done in the way of enforcement. Agriculture Commissioner Ryan Quarles said they're encouraging and reminding people to bring masks and to use "Kentucky common sense."

The familiar sights and sounds return to the annual event Kentuckians get excited to attend. The masks are a reminder, however, of the pandemic.

Andrew McCubbins worked the Chaney's Dairy Barn ice cream stand for the first time.

"I mean, I'm not a big fan of wearing [masks], but it's not a huge deal for me," he shrugged. He's happy to work this year since last year's fair was limited in capacity.

"I wasn't really sure what to expect when coming here, but it's been a lot of fun. I like getting to see all the vendors," he continued.

Signs were posted at building entrances on Thursday, alerting people to wear masks. There was a mix of people mingling indoors, however, the masked joined together with the unmasked. There was no visible penalty for lack of face covering. 

"Right now we're encouraging people to bring a mask," Quarles said. "There's signage and also periodic reminders over the audio system...and we're just asking everyone to have a little common sense, but at the same time, it's a time for us to enjoy life."

"The way I look at it, that mask is to protect you, not me," said Kentucky Beekeepers Association President Thomas Ballinger. 

His exhibit is in the West Hall. He's in favor of wearing masks. He's for anything that will mean more customers come to his kiosk since he said the honey business suffered last year and throughout the pandemic. 

"It's something you're just— We're just gonna have to adapt to," he added.