The Coatesville Rotary has canceled the 2023 Strawberry Festival due to lack of volunteers and security, writes Bill Rettew for The Daily Local News.

It would have been the 50th celebration this year, but organizers are hoping to bring it back in summer 2024 as a two-day festival instead of its typical four-day one. Entertainment had to be booked no later than March and it became difficult to find a security firm to watch over the event.

“We are not taking this lightly and dropping it,” said Greg Krajewski, co-chairman of the festival and Rotary member. “We are thinking positively and working a different way. Next month we will regroup and figure out what is best.”

With the cancellation, it unfortunately means that many Coatesville area nonprofits will miss out on funds that are generated by the festival. Last year, nearly $100,000 in Rotary grants were made available to the community.

Many residents reacted, focusing on the positive memories they have of the fair each year. However, they refuse to let the Strawberry Festival fade in obscurity and vow to make sure it returns.

“We cannot let this event pass into the annals of Coatesville history as so many others have,” said Sadsburyville resident Melinda Williams. “The people of Chester County cherished this event. Let’s keep it going — somehow, someway.”

Read more about the cancelation at The Daily Local News.

_____

Strawberry Festival 2019.