The third annual Cortez Celtic Fair has been canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic, and rescheduled for 2021.

The summer event, which celebrates Celtic heritage and raises money for local charities, has previously drawn in over 2,000 Four Corners residents, organizer Randy McKnight said.

“I take very seriously the safety of the community, and we want to make sure that everyone’s safe,” McKnight said. “This was in the best interest of everybody, and it was the only responsible thing that we could do this year.”

The fair originated as Celtic Day in 2017 as part of the Montezuma County Fair. The following year, it expanded to a daylong fair at Parque de Vida, allowing for more space for entertainment and activities — in addition to being situated in a more central location.

Festivities have included Highland dancing, musical performances and tug of war, disc golf and Highland games such as the caber toss and stone put.

Furry Highland guests including Highland cattle and the people-sized draft horse Gypsy Vanner also have made appearances.

Admission is free, and proceeds from beer and wine sales go toward local charities. This year’s event aimed to raise money for the Piñon Project Family Resource Center and the Four Corners Child Advocacy Center. Although the fair won’t take place, McKnight asks that people consider donating to these two organizations.

Next year’s fair is scheduled for June 26, 2021, McKnight said.

ealvero@the-journal.com