The Exeter Parks and Recreation Department and the Exeter Area Chamber of Commerce announce that after much deliberation, the 9th Annual Powderkeg Beer & Chili Festival, scheduled on Saturday, October 3 at Swasey Parkway has been canceled for 2020.

“Based on the most current recommendations and trending data from across the country, we must cancel the Powderkeg Beer & Chili Festival for 2020,” said Greg Bisson, director of Exeter Parks & Recreation Department. “This was not an easy decision but the health and safety of our community is our top priority.”

Over the past several years, this event has continued to grow and brings thousands of people to the Exeter community in early fall. Last year’s festival drew thousands of visitors from 26 different states.

“While the Festival supports our community and is an opportunity to highlight all we have to offer here, we do not feel that we could provide a safe and enjoyable environment for our attendees, vendors, staff, and volunteers,” said Jennifer Wheeler, president of the Exeter Area Chamber of Commerce. “Without events like the Powderkeg Beer & Chili Festival, it is important that we support our community and area businesses in other ways by shopping local and helping community organizations.”

The Powderkeg Beer & Chili Festival is traditionally scheduled on the 1st Saturday in October. “We look forward to welcoming everyone back to Swasey Parkway for the Festival on Saturday, October 2, 2021,” said Bisson.