TEMPE, AZ — The fall version of the Tempe Festival of the Arts and the annual Ironman race have both been canceled, the City of Tempe announced Friday.
The city said due to the rising cases of COVID-19 in recent days and weeks, it is not issuing permits for large-scale events.
“Certain types of events, including drive-in events and smaller-scale events, have been approved and will continue to be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Events may be approved, depending on event criteria and safety strategies demonstrated by the organizers,” the City of Tempe said in a news release.
Events of more than 50 people are prohibited, and have been for months, as part of an order within one of Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey’s executive orders.
However, cities are allowed to approve some events as long as health and safety guidelines are adhered to.
WestWorld of Scottsdale in Scottsdale has held a handful of events in recent months and a limited number of fans have also be allowed at State Farm Stadium for Arizona Cardinals games despite the increase of COVID-19 cases in recent weeks.
Ironman was scheduled for Nov. 22 but now won't happen until 2021.
The Festival of Arts was scheduled for Dec. 4-6.
Downtown Tempe also canceled its annual Fantasy of Lights parades due to the pandemic.
