Coronavirus outbreak forces cancellation of 35th Brookside Art Annual

The 2020 Brookside Art Annual, which had been rescheduled in May after the coronavirus outbreak, has now been canceled.

The art fair, in its 35th year, had been moved to Sept. 18 through 20 from its original date of May 1 through 3 before the cancellation.

“This decision was made after weeks of careful deliberation about the challenging and evolving impacts of COVID-19 and consultation with artists and local health officials,” Kim Harris, president of the Brookside Community Improvement District, said in a written statement.

“As an event that relies on the regional and national travel of artists and hosts many at-risk demographics, we are confident this is the best decision to ensure the safety of artists and our community during this time,” Harris said.

Next year, the art fair is scheduled to take place April 30 through May 2.

The annual event typically attracts thousands to the shopping district located on 63rd Street between Main Street and Wornall Road. The artwork ranges from paintings to sculptures and photographs. The festival also offers children’s activities, music and food booths.