AMBOY — The annual Amboy Depot Days has been added to the list of events that have been canceled due to COVID-19 and the State of Illinois’ reopening plan.

The City of Amboy announced last week that “it is with great sadness that Amboy Depot Days 2020 has canceled our Festival, Car Show and 50/50 drawing for this year.” On Facebook, the city says that as it stands now, no festivals or gatherings of over 50 people are allowed until Phase 5, and the state is preparing to transition into Phase 4 on June 26.

“It was a hard decision for our committee of volunteers who put countless hours into this event every year. We thank you for your understanding and continued support and we will see you in 2021.”

The Amboy Depot Days Car Show committee also announced that it had a meeting to discuss the Amboy Depot Days Car show, 50/50 drawing and Depot Days Festival. “Because of the governor’s orders, still no gatherings over 50 people until Phase 5, we are currently at Phase 3. With that being said, Depot Days festival, Car Show and 50/50 drawing has been canceled for 2020.”

The committee posted on Facebook, “It’s a disappointment to say the least. We’ve taken a lot of pride in providing local charities and non-profit organizations with much-needed funding. People have asked that the 50/50 continue. The overwhelming majority of our money comes in solely on Depot Days weekend and mainly car show Sunday. The festival, car show and 50/50 drawing all work hand in hand so if one of those events are canceled the other two simply cannot be the success we strive for each and every year. We appreciate everyone’s past years’ support. Please support your local small businesses and thank you for your understanding.”