For the first time in four decades, opening cannons will not be heard in Waxahachie, as the team in charge of Scarborough Renaissance Festival has decided to cancel this year’s festivities due to the Coronavirus pandemic continuing to worsen.

“Scarborough Renaissance Festival was truly hopeful that the [Coronavirus] situation would subside in time to be able to open with the adjusted 6-week schedule previously announced,” a statement from the festival read. “Due to the continually evolving COVID-19 situation and the heightened recommendations from the CDC and local officials, Scarborough Renaissance Festival announces today the cancellation of its 2020 season — the only time in its 40-year history.”

The 16th Century Styled renaissance festival is well known for its full-combat armored jousts, Birds of Prey exhibitions and entertainers performing across more than 25 stages. The festival also boasts 200 village shops and artisan demonstrations and many rides and games of skill — each generally still within the festival’s underlying theme.

“This decision is necessary to ensure the health and safety of staff, employees, participants, patrons and community,” a statement from the festival read. “The entire Scarborough Renaissance Festival organization is extremely disappointed in the cancellation of the 2020 season but we plan to be back in 2021 bigger and better than ever to celebrate its 40th season and hope to see everyone then!”