Baldwin County Strawberry Festival canceled

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LOXLEY, Alabama — The Baldwin County Strawberry Festival Committee has announced that it has canceled the 2020 Festival, which was scheduled for April 11-12 at Loxley Municipal Park.

“The circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 virus and the guidance we have received from the CDC and EMA make it almost impossible to move forward with the event,” Baldwin County Strawberry Festival Chairman Greg Walker said in a Facebook post dated March 17.

Every year the festival sees more than 50,000 visitors, 160 vendors and is staffed with more than 200 volunteers.

“Because the Festival is also a huge draw for families – including children and grandparents – we felt the safety of our visitors was of utmost importance,” Walker said.

According to the post, vendors and sponsors will be offered refunds this year or credit toward the 2021 festival. Committee members will be in touch with vendors, sponsors and other suppliers as soon as possible so there is no confusion.

Because the Festival is ultimately a fundraiser for Loxley Elementary and Baldwin ARC, Walker said, they will be looking for ways to support both organizations and will communicate those as soon as the best methods are determined.

“We hope if you had planned to attend that you will also take part in these efforts when announced,” he said. "We know Baldwin County and beyond looks forward to this event each year and we share the collective disappointment, but we look forward to welcoming everyone back to the 2021 Strawberry Festival. Thank you for your patience, support and understanding.”