In the same week the event was approved to proceed, Hodag Country Festival decided to postpone its 43rd event this summer.
Organizers said entertainers, vendors, and fest-goers were still hoping to participate this year, but they felt the safety of the community was more important.
“The possibility of having the Hodag Country Festival created stress and division in the Rhinelander area, and we are sincerely apologetic for this,” organizers said on the festival website. “It was never our intent. The festival has always been about community. We have been here for 43 years and have always supported the Northwoods area. Hodag hopes we can continue to have your support in the future.”
Those with 2020 tickets and camping permits will receiving instructions shortly for how to request a refund or rollover to 2021.
Country music fans will have a chance to kick the dust up at at least one concert this summer.
Hodag Country Festival announced it was granted a permit to host the event in Oneida County.
“We’d like to thank the many local businesses and individuals who have provided their continued support to make this happen, as well as everyone involved in making this a positive decision for the community,” the festival posted on Facebook.
The festival said it understands not everyone will feel comfortable with the decision, so there will be options for refunds or rollovers to Hodag 2021.
Festival organizers will have to implement 25 public safety measures, including providing masks for employees and volunteers and encouraging festival attendees to wear masks and practice social distancing, according to the Associated Press.
About 16,000 people a day are expected for the festival July 9-12.
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