The Rome Rotary Club will not be able to hold Canalfest at Bellamy Harbor Park this year due to state mandates for mass crowds, according to an announcement by club officials.

“Rotary knows many people in Rome await this festival every year,” said Rotary President Nancy Neiley. “We are disappointed because we had many new exhibits and activities to bring to the community. The health and safety of our attendees and our volunteers is our top priority.”

This festival is the largest service project that Rotary undertakes every year, Neiley said, adding that this year Rotary is awarding eight scholarships to graduating seniors. Three of these are traditional Service Above Self scholarships; four are STEAM scholarships to Mohawk Valley Community College. Additionally Rotary will award a scholarship to a Lucy’s House client that wants to improve her life. Rotary will supply mentors for recipients of the STEAM scholarships and is working with the Griffiss Institute to further guide students to STEAM job opportunities in the area.

Rotary also gives awards to local non-profit organizations, supports the Youth Exchange program, holds a Christmas party for first- and second-grade students, introduces International college students to the Rome community,
and participates in many community activities, the announcement added.

“It is important to note that our sponsors have continued to support us even though the event will not go on,” Neiley said, adding that “we want to thank Mayor (Jacqueline) Izzo for her support of Canalfest over the years.”

“Canalfest will return bigger and better in 2021,” Neiley said. “Please mark your calendars for the weekend of August 6-8, 2021.”