The Wichita River Festival has been canceled for this year.
“When you’re the biggest event in the state with a large economic impact on the local community, it takes longer to assess and coordinate with local public health officials,” said Ty Tabing, president/CEO of WFI, the 501c3 not-for-profit organization that produces Riverfest. “We’ve been very thoughtful about this decision and are doing the right thing as a matter of public health and safety, and there is no higher priority.”
The announcement was made over Facebook live Tuesday morning. Tabing was joined by Sedgwick County Commissioner Lacey Cruse and Vice-Mayor Cindy Claycomb.
“This is an unfortunate development that will continue to impact our community in multiple ways,” Sedgwick County Commissioner Lacey Cruse said. “But, this decision by Riverfest officials is the responsible and the right thing to do. It is important we continue to ensure the safety of residents and visitors in the community.”
In place of Riverfest, Wichita Festivals is planning a four day celebration in the fall that will mark the 150th anniversary of the founding of Wichita. Several of the events that are a part of the Wichita River Festival will be incorporated into the fall celebration.
The fall festival is still being planned and we expect Wichita Festivals Inc. to release more details at a later date.
