The Richmond Free Press has been informed that the 34th 2nd Street Festival scheduled Oct. 1-2 is canceled. The popular annual event celebrates the history of Jackson Ward and its heyday as the heart and soul of the Black community.

“Like you all, I’m sure, we’ve been watching Hurricane Ian for days, hoping against hope that it would not be the massive and potentially deadly weather event that it clearly has become,” said Lisa Sims, in a Sept. 28 email message to Venture Richmond trustees that was provided to the Richmond Free Press. Venture Richmond is the Downtown booster group that produces the festival.

“While we are extremely lucky to be a few states away from the serious issues Florida is facing, we also know that this weekend promises massive amounts of rainfall and potentially strong wind gusts for our area,” said Mrs. Sims. “After consulting meteorologists, vendors, contractors, security, and other event planners, we’ve concluded to the best of our ability that the event, if held, would not be successful. We also must put the safety of our patrons, artists, vendors, contractors, and staff foremost, and the threat is simply too great.

“As you can imagine this has not been an easy decision for us. Our small but mighty staff, especially our events team, works for a year on this beloved community festival, and our patrons look forward to it every year. To say we’re sorely disappointed is an understatement. I hope you understand and support our decision.”

This year’s show was to feature an array of performers, a hair fashion show, an antique car display, as well as activities for children and artist, merchandise and food vendors for the tens of thousands who were expected over the two days.

As its name indicates the festival would have taken over the once prominent commercial area on 2nd Street north of Broad and spill into side blocks.

Hip-hop pioneer Grandmaster Flash was to lead the festivities, along with Ban Caribe, the jazzy Marvin Taylor Experience, the line dance prince Carlos Viera and the Johnny Lee Long Band, among others.