Greater Newport Chamber of Commerce release – After much communication with city, county, and state officials, it is with heavy hearts that the Greater Newport Chamber of Commerce decided to announce the cancellation of the 2022 Newport Seafood & Wine Festival. While we were eager to welcome folks back to a much anticipated in-person festival, coupled with putting all the necessary precautions in place to ensure the health and safety of all the attendees, vendors, volunteers, and staff, it doesn’t outweigh the level of safety and protection from COVID that is foremost for participants and the community. Even with a scaled back version of the event, a decline in participation from vendors and volunteers due to COVID concerns also contributed to the decision to cancel the event. We do hope to hold the festival in future years. Meanwhile, we will explore ideas for another community event and put our efforts into something that can be executed in a safe manner. Though we understand and share the disappointment, we hope you will continue to support the Newport Chamber and pivot with us as we navigate through the current climate we’re all experiencing with COVID. Keep an eye on the Seafood & Wine Festival’s Facebook page and website for future announcements.
