Courtesy photo

This year’s BITE NW Arkansas food festival, originally scheduled for June 19-20, has been postponed, according to a statement on the event’s website. The event will be rescheduled for fall 2020 in downtown Rogers, with festival dates to be announced at a later time.

“Out of respect for our community and local partners, we feel postponing BITE NW Arkansas is the right thing to do in this unprecedented time,” said Jay Allen, the event’s chairman. “We are committed to continue our support for the restaurant industry and local charitable partners, all impacted greatly from the COVID-19 public health crisis, and are hopeful to return in the fall to be able to celebrate the spirit of this community and our incredible partners.”

The annual event is held in conjunction with the Walmart NW Arkansas Championship, which has been a stop on the LPGA Tour since 2007. That tournament is currently still slated to be held June 15-21 at Pinnacle Country Club, but organizers said those plans are being evaluated and modified as needed.

“The health and safety of our volunteers, spectators, players and our community here in NW Arkansas remains our number one priority,” stated Annye DeGrand, the event’s director. “We are currently exploring modifications to the week, including limiting large-scale gatherings in confined spaces and incorporating virtual programming where appropriate.”

Those who have already purchased tickets for this year’s festival will be contacted directly, with the option to receive a full refund or the opportunity to transfer their ticket to the rescheduled event.

Additional information regarding the refund process can be found at www.bitenwa.com/refunds.