Organizers of the upcoming Lakes District Fall Fair say the uncertainty caused by massive fires in the region have caused them to cancel the event.
In a statement issued to its website, the Association says the displacement of people from their homes, disruptions to routine, and questions about what will happen next make it impossible to concentrate their energy on this year’s festivities.
While Burns Lake isn’t directly affected by fires, there are a number of major blazes, including the massive Shovel Lake wildfire, burning in nearly every direction.
Organizers say they made the decision as quickly as circumstances allowed, although they were reluctant to do so.
The committee says it plans to celebrate the community’s resilience and “unconquerable spirit” when the time is right.
In the meantime, the fairgrounds have been opened up to those evacuees in need of a place to keep their animals.
The Lakes District Fall Fair was originally scheduled for September 7, 8, and 9.