BOWLING GREEN, Mo. — After much discussion and deliberation, the Bowling Green Chamber of Commerce has decided with the spike of COVID-19 cases, to cancel this year’s Holly Jolly Festival scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 21st.

The chamber had hopes of expanding on their Holly Jolly Festival this year after they were forced to cancel the annual Champ Clark Heritage Festival in September. However a large increase in COVID-19 cases in Pike County, MO. has forced them to reconsider the holiday celebration.

“The recent spike in COVID-19 cases is very concerning, and even though we were planning an outdoor event and giving people more space to spread out from each other; we fear that with little Santa events being held this year that it may drive a larger crowd than typical,” said chamber president Tracy Brookshier.  “The last thing the chamber wants to do is be driving an event that could put the health of our community at risk. We are praying for a better 2021 as I’m sure everyone else is too. We will still be decorating our downtown lots and are hoping to arrange a Santa mailbox for kiddos to drop off their letters to Santa.”

In a statement released by chamber executive director Sarrah Gigous it was noted the decision was not made lightly and they did seek the advice of the Pike County Health Department.

“Although some events may be canceled, the chamber is continuing to stay active and involved in our city whenever possible,” stated Gigous. “We are continuing with ribbon cuttings for the many new businesses here and our monthly membership meetings. Also, plans are still underway for the annual awards banquet in January.”

You can always keep up to date on chamber events by visiting their website at www.bgchamber.org or by visiting their Facebook page.