ASHEBORO — The 48th annual Fall Festival in Asheboro has cancelled, according to a statement from the Randolph Arts Guild, which manages the event.
“Sadly, the Annual Fall Festival committee and Randolph Arts Guild Board of Directors has made the decision to cancel the 2022 Fall Festival, October 1-2, 2022 for the safety of our vendors, entertainers, attendees, sponsors, and downtown merchants,” the statement from the guild says.
The group cited an executive order from Gov. Roy Cooper, who declared a state of emergency on Wednesday as the path of Hurricane Ian puts much of central and eastern North Carolina in line for rain in the next several days.
However, the state of emergency only covers various changes relating to transportation and emergency management, and does not prohibit outdoor events from being held.
“The Randolph Arts Guild Board knows that this cancellation does not come without consequence. The Fall Festival is an essential economic driver for local non-profits, community groups, small businesses, and vendors. We understand the disappointment that this may bring, as many in the city of Asheboro and throughout Randolph County look forward to this great event. The Randolph Arts Guild is dedicated to doing our part for the safety of our community,” the group’s statement continues.Vendor refunds for registration fees will be issued no later than Tuesday, Nov. 1, according to the guild.
