By Ally Lanasa, Staff Writer

(Aug. 6, 2020) The 28th annual Fiddlers Convention scheduled for Sept. 25-27 in downtown Berlin has been canceled due to the ongoing coronavirus crisis, according to a post on the Berlin Maryland Chamber of Commerce Facebook page.

“This event has been a favorite of visitors and locals for almost 3 decades and will be sorely missed by all,” the post stated.

The Fiddlers Convention is a free three-day event of bluegrass, Cajun and Celtic music in downtown Berlin, where musicians from across the country compete for thousands in cash prizes in adult and youth fiddle, banjo, guitar, mandolin and bluegrass band contests.

The chamber of commerce stated that it was unfeasible to host a large-scale event and ensure the safety of all present with the narrow streets that do not allow for social distancing.

The Town of Berlin has canceled many events to prevent large gatherings until after Labor Day, including the annual Bathtub Races, Memorial Day Parade and July 3 fireworks.

In addition, the monthly concerts on the lawn have been canceled as well as live music during the farmers market on Sundays.

Last Saturday, the annual Peach Festival proceeded with a modified celebration that prohibited craft vendors and encouraged social distancing throughout downtown Berlin.

John Fager, who operates The Atlantic Hotel, has canceled the Small Town Throw Down scheduled for Sept. 12, said Ivy Wells, the town’s economic and community development director.

At this time, Berlin Oktoberfest is still scheduled for Oct. 17. Wells said a determination on that event will be made in September.