Two More Events Cancelled Due to Pandemic Uncertainty

Presented by Hometown-Motors, Inc.

The Portsmouth River Days and 1st Capital Chili & Beer Fest have become casualties to the uncertainty created by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Both events were scheduled in September.

Labor Day weekend. Portsmouth becomes a popular spot along the Ohio River, but the organizers posted on the event’s Facebook Page “Despite our best efforts, it has become clear that we will be required to cancel the 2020 River Days Festival.”

Meanwhile, the annual chili-making competition presented by Chillicothe’s civic group The Cigar Band, now know as The 1st Capital Chili & Beer Fest, announced Wednesday of the cancellation of its September 26th event.

In a statement on Facebook, organizers cite “Continued concerns over the spread of COVID-19 and the safety of the community led The Chillicothe Cigar Band to make this decision.”

Organizers tell Litter Media the 2020 music lineup of longtime Chili Fest staple Matt Salyers and Ben True have enthusiastically agreed to commit to performing at the 2021 event, scheduled for Saturday September 25th. Ben True was purchased by ERA Martin Realtors at Rock For Tots in 2019 to perform at this year’s now cancelled event.