The Columbus Italian Festival Board announced Tuesday the Taste of Italy and the Columbus Italian Festival have been canceled due to COVID-19 concerns. Taste of Italy was set to take place on October 5 and the 41st annual Columbus Italian Festival was scheduled for October 9-11.

"The safety of our neighbors, guests, volunteers, staff, participants, sponsors, vendors and everyone involved is our greatest priority. The demands of social distancing, insuring the utmost safe and quality event, and financial responsibility dictate this decision," the Columbus Italian Festival Board said.