Havre de Grace Decoy Museum Cancels Decoy Festival: Coronavirus

HAVRE DE GRACE, MD — Due to the new coronavirus, the Havre de Grace Decoy Museum has canceled its annual Decoy & Wildlife Art Festival. This would have been the 39th year for the celebration of decoys at the waterfront city.

It was a "difficult decision," according to the Havre de Grace Decoy Museum, which reported its board of directors was "mindful of the gravity of this announcement."

The 39th Annual Decoy & Wildlife Art Festival was slated for May 2 and 3, a little less than six weeks away.

"After careful consideration, the Havre de Grace Decoy Museum Board of Directors has come to the difficult decision to cancel the 39th Annual Decoy & Wildlife Art Festival," the Havre de Grace Decoy Museum reported Tuesday, March 24. "This decision comes in the wake of the global Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and the current restrictions issued by Governor Larry Hogan and the State of Maryland, and other governors across the country."

Marylanders are prohibited from gathering in groups greater than 10 by order of the governor to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus. Parades, festivals, conventions and fundraisers are canceled to reduce the threat, until the state of emergency is lifted.

Gov. Larry Hogan declared a state of emergency March 5 when the first cases of the virus were reported. Less than three weeks later, there are 349 cases confirmed.

As of March 24, four people have died in Maryland from the virus.

The Havre de Grace Decoy Museum closed March 20 to the public until further notice due to the outbreak of COVID-19. During the closure, officials said they would be cleaning the museum and changing the exhibits.

Canceling the festival was not something the organizers said they took lightly.

"We are mindful of the gravity of this announcement for our vendors, competitors, sponsors and guests," the Havre de Grace Decoy Museum said in a statement.

Staff from the museum will reach out to those affected regarding refunds. People who have questions about the cancellation of the festival may call the museum at 410-939-3739, extension 1, or by emailing executivedirector@decoymuseum.com.

"We look forward to seeing you for next year's festival!" organizers said. "In the meantime, stay well."