Due to COVID-19, the Port Elgin Beach Market Committee and the Port Elgin Pumpkinfest team have made the challenging decision to cancel the seasonal Wednesday Beach Market for 2020, according to a June 11 media release.

"The health and safety of our many vendors, volunteers, residents, and countless visitors is paramount to the committee. Taking these factors into consideration, it has become apparent that we are unable to continue this summer with the traditional beach market," read the release.

“I’m proud of the committee for taking this step," said Beach Market Chair Connie Barker. "It was a hard decision but weighing all facts and health concerns it is just not socially responsible to move forward this year. I encourage everyone to support our two downtown BIAs and shop local.”

The team will work alongside the municipality to monitor the ongoing situation and are open to evaluate other opportunities for the beach area should the situation change and they can guarantee the health and safety of all.

"On behalf of the committee we thank our volunteers, vendors, residents and visitors for your dedication and support over the 40 years the market has been running," read the release. "We are already looking forward to your return in 2021."