LONDON, KY - Mayor Randall Weddle is reporting that: We want to provide everyone with an update and some information regarding the World Chicken Festival and why the event is not being canceled only delayed today. The festival is organized by a dedicated board made up of city and county representatives who vote on all aspects of the event.
While we were aware that rain was likely no one could have predicted a hurricane months ago, history shows that rain has never stopped the Chicken Festival before. We anticipated that one day of this storm could bring high winds, but the planning for this event began months ago, and rescheduling is not a simple option. There are too many factors at play.
Currently, the festival grounds are quiet no one from the public is on festival grounds it is only vendors securing their tents and belongings, festival workers, first responders and city staff. At 3:00 PM, festival organizers and first responders will meet again to assess whether we can proceed today or tomorrow. As of now, the plan is to reopen at 5:00 PM, as the radar indicates the system may clear around that time.
Rest assured, everyone is safe at the festival. We hope that if the weather permits, vendors can come in and make some money, as this situation has been devastating for many vendors, carnival workers, and organizers.
The World Chicken Festival board takes these decisions very seriously, and they are considering the well-being of everyone involved. I wholeheartedly support our small businesses and the visitors who come to enjoy our city. While rain may be falling, the festival will continue unless there is lightning or severe winds.
Please understand that organizing this event takes months of planning, and it cannot simply be changed overnight. The board works diligently with all involved parties, which is a significant undertaking.
Some have asked why the festival is held downtown instead of in the county. This location has been the heart of the festival since its inception, and while I understand that opinions may vary, it has become a cherished tradition in our city.
Thank you for your understanding and support! Let’s hope for a successful festival ahead!
You can learn more at World Chicken Festival
PREVIOUS from Mayor Weddle below
As the wind continues to pick up, vendors are working to secure their tents. Many have asked why we can’t cancel or reschedule the event. Unfortunately, that’s not feasible, as many vendors travel from miles away, and the performers and carnival have also been planned for months. Today is expected to bring the worst of the storm.
We’ll see what the weekend holds, but hopefully it will just be rain after today. Canceling such an event could impact many livelihoods, and the World Chicken Festival Board takes this matter very seriously. My office is in constant contact with Festival organizers. Everyone is working hard to ensure everyone's safety.
Photo is from Mayor Randall Weddle's Facebook page.
