St. JOSEPH COUNTY, Ind. – St. Joseph County Parks has canceled Sugar Camp Days in order to hinder the spread of coronavirus. The event was originally scheduled March 21 and 22 at Bendix Woods County Park.

Officials say that the cancellation complies with the St. Joseph County Health Department’s guidelines and recommendations for public health related to the coronavirus.

The decision was made as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of park visitors, staff and volunteers.

Although the event is mostly outdoors, the large number of people in close proximity creates a greater risk of exposure.

The event will likely not be rescheduled this year.

An average of 2 to 3 thousand people attend Sugar Camp Days with over 80 volunteers, artisans and partners who also participate in the event.

“We are disappointed about the cancelation because for staff and volunteers the festival is a highlight for us, but parks have always played a role in public health and it is critical to keep the welfare of our visitors, volunteers and staff at the forefront,” Evie Kirkwood said, Director of the County Parks.