Pikeville officials had to make a decision Tuesday morning as large community events across the country continue to be canceled or postponed because of COVID-19 concerns.

After much discussion, city officials announced they would cancel the 2020 Hillbilly Days festival.

"So we're looking at the health and the city of the citizens of the community. We don't want to do anything to help spread the disease. We're looking to protect everybody," explained Jordan Gibson.

Gibson is the President, CEO of the Southeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce.

Officials from the chamber work with those from the city, county and Shriners to make the festival possible each year.

This usually draws tens of thousands of people to Pike County in mid-April every year.

Pikeville Mayor Jimmy Carter said there is a possibility of having the festival in the fall, but it is too soon to know for sure.