Hodges opts to cancel festival

The Town of Hodges will not be hosting its Spirit of Hodges Festival this year because of expected inclement weather Oct. 10.

The festival was originally changed to barbecue plates and live music in lieu of its usual format because of COVID-19, but Mayor Joyce Saad said the town decided to cancel after it became apparent negative weather conditions would threaten the event.

“We worried that there wouldn’t be any shelter for anyone in the weather, and if we did provide shelter, then everyone would be gathering in a small area,” Saad said.

Saad said there are no plans to reschedule to event. Instead, the fire department will continue with its monthly Swamp John’s fundraiser dinners.

“We hate not being able to do it this year, but we feel like this was the best call,” Saad said.