The annual Whiskey Rebellion Festival scheduled for July 9-12, 2020, in downtown Washington has been canceled. “Out of an abundance of caution due to ongoing COVID-19 concerns, the organizing committee decided, after much discussion, that it must, regrettably, cancel this year’s festival,” said festival co-chair Joseph Piszczor. The multi-day festival was created 10 years ago to celebrate the region’s unique place in the history of the Whiskey Rebellion. It is organized completely by volunteers and activities are free to the public. “We would like to thank the dozens of committee members who work diligently for months to make this festival the success it has been over years,” remarked Joe DeThomas, one of the festival co-chairs. Although the 2020 festival has been canceled, the committee hopes to celebrate the spirit of the Whiskey Rebellion with online “virtual” events this summer. Details will be announced at www.whiskeyrebellionfestival.com and on social media. “Hopefully, we will get the ‘all’s clear’ in 2021 to hold the festival during its usual second weekend in July next year,” he added. “We would also like to thank the community for its unwavering financial support for the festival,” noted Tracie Liberatore, Executive Director of the Bradford House Historical Association. “When funds are tight, sponsors and individuals step up and make sure the event, which is so vital for tourism and the area’s economy, becomes a reality.” Net proceeds from the festival benefit the organization, headquartered in the former home of attorney David Bradford, a key figure in the Whiskey Rebellion during the late 1700s.