For the second consecutive year, COVID-19 has forced the cancellation of the popular Great Blue Heron Music Festival. “We know this will be a huge disappointment for many, but hope you will understand that we see it as the best path for us with so many unknowns,” the organizers said. P-J photo

SHERMAN — Organizers of the Great Blue Heron Music Festival have been forced to cancel the event for the second consecutive year due to COVID-19.

The Great Blue Heron was set for July 3-5 of 2020, and was originally rescheduled for July 2-4, 2021.

“This would have been our 30th year, so we are very sad about this and we’re sure you are disappointed too,” organizers said in an online statement. “With COVID restrictions still in place and no idea when they will be lifted, we view this as the smartest and safest direction for 2021. We know this will be a huge disappointment for many, but hope you will understand that we see it as the best path for us with so many unknowns.”

Despite being forced to cancel last year’s music festival, Julie and Steve Rockcastle and David Tidquist were able to welcome some guests to the new Heron Campground for some music, camping and socially-distanced activities.

Transitioning their business model to suit COVID-19, The Heron Campground was named as a No. 1 Tent Campgound in the U.S. by Hipcamp, and also earned Airbnb SuperHost status.

“We are proud of all the quick changes we made to survive 2020. We are extremely thankful to our staff and all of you that supported us and made this possible,” organizers said. “So we ask for your patience for another month or so, while we figure out our 2021 schedule for enjoying the land, live music, wonderful food from our farm, and EACH OTHER here at The Heron! Keep your eyes on our social media pages for updates!”