In a statement released today, organizers of the 50th annual Jesse James Festival announced that the 2020 event has been cancelled.

*Plans are underway for the 50th Annual Jesse James Festival in 2021*

The organizations president, Dan Colt, released the following statement:

We have all been affected in some way by the CORONA-19 virus restrictions placed upon us since this last April, wearing face masks when leaving our homes, staying away from our loved ones, working from home or unfortunately loss of employment.

As we all know, the state, counties and municipalities have all placed social restrictions to help reduce the chances of the virus spread requiring the 6 feet space between each other to the maximum of 250 in mass gatherings at this time.

After careful consideration and much deliberation on this matter, we have determined that to maintain the family fun atmosphere the festival offers every year and still be within the “social distancing” requirement will not be possible. Therefore, it has been decided that in the best interest of those attending the festival and our community the 2020 Jesse James Festival is cancelled for September 2020. We would like to express our appreciation to all for your understanding in the undertaking of this hard decision.

The group is already making plans for 2021 and the 50th Jesse James Festival is now scheduled for September 10-11, 16-19, 2021.

KPGZ News - Jim Dickerson contributed to this report