BECKLEY, WV (WOAY) – Earlier today, Beckley Events canceled its annual Chili Night that was supposed to happen in just over two weeks.
Organizers say the decision was difficult, but it was best for the community amid the pandemic. Since the event draws crowds by the thousands to Main Street, social distancing isn’t usually possible. To make matters worse, the demolition on Main Street makes available space limited. Unfortunately, this means a major loss in funding for future events.
“We normally clear about $10,000 from the event and that’s what we use the whole next year to plan our events,” said Beckley Events director Jill Moorefield. “We’ll just have to be careful with our money next year. I know people are so disappointed that they can’t come and socialize and enjoy themselves, but it’s just too many people and too much of a risk to try to do it this year.”
This year would have been the 30th Chili Night. Moorefield says they’ll celebrate next year when the popular event returns.
