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Council decides to cancel July event

SALUDA—The annual Coon Dog Day festival in Saluda has been canceled.

Saluda Commissioners met Monday and decided it was best to cancel the event this year because of the restrictions on the coronavirus.

Council members said the limits of outdoor gatherings of more than 25 people through June 26 made the festival unlikely this year. Coon Dog Day was planned for July 11.

Coon Dog Day brings thousands of people to downtown Saluda, and includes and parade, food vendors, a dance and dog judging, among other activities.

“It is unlikely the next phase of reopening will significantly lift these restrictions,” Saluda officials said. “The Coon Dog Day festival brings thousands to our beautiful mountain town. The health and safety of the community is a priority.”

Board members said they are concerned about a mass gathering advancing the spread of the virus. They also said festival security is critical and the availability of law enforcement could be limited.

The Town of Columbus also postponed its Fabulous Fourth celebration this year. Council members had the same concerns as Saluda officials, including not knowing what the governor’s orders will be following June 26. The Fabulous Fourth celebration has been postponed until Oct. 3 if children’s rides and fireworks can be rescheduled for that date.