MARBLE FALLS, Texas, July 15, 2020 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Marble Falls Chamber of Commerce today announced the cancellation of Lakefest 2020 originally scheduled to take place on July 25 and 26. Lakefest organizers, health and local officials made the united decision based on the recent rapid spread of COVID-19 in Central Texas. Tickets purchased for the event will be refunded.
"We are saddened to have had to cancel Lakefest 2020 as it is an event that community members and visitors look forward to year after year," said Jarrod Metzgar, Executive Director of Marble Falls and Lake LBJ Chamber of Commerce and Convention and Visitors Bureau. "However, public safety and protecting our community remains our top priority. It is our hope that although we must remain apart for now, we will be able to come back better than ever for Lakefest 2021."
"Each year, we look forward to bringing Lakefest to Marble Falls, Texas, but protecting participants, volunteers and the community is paramount," said David Carroll, Series Director of the Southern Drag Boat Association. "A tremendous amount of work has gone into preparing for this event therefore we are thankful for the many sponsors, volunteers, participants and the Marble Falls Chamber of Commerce and local community who have made Lakefest such a memorable event. While canceling Lakefest 2020 is disappointing for fans and participants, we know that our love of the sport doesn't compare to the importance of protecting the health and safety of everyone involved."
"With the majority of Lakefest attendees coming from out of town, there is a greater risk for the spread of COVID-19 amongst our community if we were to move forward with the event as planned," said John Packer, Mayor of Marble Falls. "Lakefest has been an event for residents and visitors alike to enjoy the boat race followed by enjoying the restaurants and amenities Marble Falls has to offer. However, this decision was made with the best interest of our community, volunteers, participants and spectators to protect them from potential exposure to COVID-19."
"While it appears that Burnet County is at a manageable stage regarding COVID-19, that will likely not be the case if there is a large gathering like Lakefest," said Burnet County Local Health Authority, Dr. Juliette Madrigal. "The last thing we want is to put Burnet County residents and surrounding communities at a greater risk of spreading this virus."
The Marble Falls Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit that makes much of its funding from large events. Our mission at the Marble Falls Chamber of Commerce is to support local businesses through education, networking, and tourism promotion through citywide events. For information on alternative events and future fundraising efforts, please visit https://www.marblefalls.org/.
SOURCE Marble Falls Chamber of Commerce
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