Artichoke Festival canceled for first time since 1959

MONTEREY, Calif. (KION) Organizers announced that the Artichoke Festival has been canceled for the first time since 1959.

The event, scheduled for Aug. 8 and 9 at the Monterey County Fair and Event Center, is canceled due to health and safety concerns surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, according to organizers. It had been originally scheduled for May 30 and 31, but was postponed in March.

“It was decided due to the uncertainty of the times and our concerns for the health of our attendees,” said Linda Scherer, executive director. “We are excited to announce June 5-6 as the dates for 2021.”

Festival organizers said they will refund all pre-purchased tickets for the 2020 event.

To help the nonprofits that usually depend on the event for funding, festival organizers said you can donate to them here.