August 20, 2021

Four weeks from today artists, crafters, and vendors will be setting up their booths on Historic Walnut Street for Cider Days, presented by Simmons Bank. The event is Sept. 18-19.

The decision to hold Cider Days, hosted by the Historic Walnut Street Association and managed by the Downtown Springfield Association, was not an easy one. Several events in Southwest Missouri have been postponed as the area deals with the COVID-19 pandemic. The DSA team discussed postponing this year’s festival before deciding to move forward as planned.

“So many of our artists, crafters and other vendors have struggled as the COVID-19 pandemic has forced the cancellation of many community events,” Rusty Worley, Downtown Springfield Association Executive Director, said. “This is an important time for the community to safely come together to support these artists and small businesses.” 

According to guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, outdoor gatherings pose much less risk than indoor events, especially those held in areas with poor ventilation. The CDC also recommends the size of events should be determined based on whether attendees from different households can stay at least 6 feet apart. That physical distancing can reduce transmission risk.

The festival footprint on Historic Walnut Street will allow guests to space out safely while they shop, dine and enjoy music and dance performances. Several other COVID protocols will be in place for Cider Days.

The festival has been scaled down, with fewer artists, crafters and vendors to create more room along the festival footprint. Guests will be encouraged to wear masks. Booths will be spaced 6 feet apart to encourage physical distancing. Hand sanitizing stations will be provided and Brokate Janitorial will provide a porter to clean high touch-point areas.

Tickets for the festival will be sold online and in entry flights, similar to the ticketing process for Artsfest on Historic Walnut Street this spring. Guests can purchase tickets for the 10 a.m.-1 p.m. session, or the 1-5 p.m. session. Capacity will be limited to 3,000 people per entry time.

Cider Days will be open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. both days. Admission is $5 for adults, while children 10 and under are free.