The Rotary Club of Sedona Red Rocks made the decision last week to cancel the popular Oktoberfest event, citing the ongoing pandemic.
This is the second consecutive year the group has decided to forego the event, citing community spread of COVID-19 and the impact it has had on businesses and large events.
The event had been set for Oct. 23.
“This yearly event takes the effort of our entire club and supports our charitable giving throughout the year,” said Rick Wesselhoff, a member of the Rotary and long-time biermeister for the event. “Yesterday’s meeting was a thoughtful discussion about the financial risks of hosting a community event and a decision was made by the entire club to cancel the event.”
Wesselhoff said the decision was made after taking leads from the Coconino County Fair protocols and a few Oktoberfest events statewide that have been canceled.
“We know that our community supporters, vendors, brewers and club members will be saddened to hear of this, but as a nonprofit club we can’t afford to host an event that has a lower probability of success given the resurgence of COVID- 19,” he said. “We look forward to hoisting a beer this year in our own way, and we look forward to a more successful event in 2022.”
Winefest Still Planned
The Sedona Winefest is still moving forward and is set for Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 25 and 26, at Posse Grounds Park.
Organizers require proof of vaccination or a negative COVID- 19 test within 72 hours of the event.
Winefest is refunding tickets that have already been sold to those who choose to not adhere to these requirements.
“Wine, art and music lovers come from across the state to join us for this weekend among the red rocks, as there is truly something for everyone to enjoy,” Sedona Winefest founder and Sedona Mayor Sandy Moriarty said in a press release.
For more information on the event, visit sedonawinefest.com.
