SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO.com) — Dozens of South Dakota fairs, festivals and events have been canceled in 2020 to reduce the risk of spreading the potentially deadly coronavirus.
The cancellations have eliminated a significant source of revenue for many communities and the state and have been painful for organizers and patrons who look forward to the annual events that bolster community spirit and fund local programs.
As of early June, nearly four dozen community events, many of them multi-day affairs, were canceled and not rescheduled, according to the state Department of Tourism. Those cancellations are in addition to the temporary or permanent closure of dozens more businesses and attractions that lure visitors and spending to the state each year.
Millions of dollars in income for businesses and individuals will be lost, and sales-tax revenues that fund operations of cities, counties and the state will be reduced as events are canceled over fears of spreading the virus.
The decision to cancel the events is sometimes heartbreaking for organizers who have spent most of the year preparing to host vibrant events that may include music, food, sports, history and culture and children’s activities.
In the latest piece published by News Watch, available here, reporters Bart Pfankuch and Nick Lowrey provide details on which events are canceled and what it means to communities and sales-tax revenues.
