A winter event in Downtown Binghamton that was just getting its start and looking to expand a tasty component has apparently called off its second year.

Bob Joseph/ WNBF News
Bob Joseph/ WNBF News
loading...

Broome Winter Works Executive Director Tytus Haller has informed would-be vendors and participants in the second Broome Ice Fest and Chili competition that the event will not be held in February as had been planned.

Haller said the timing of the dismissal of Binghamton Economic Development Director Bob Murphy just before Thanksgiving prompted the City to commit to only half of its expected financial contribution to the downtown event.

A statement issued by the City says: "Given a number of factors, including matters outside the City’s control on the organizer’s side, we came to a mutual decision that supporting a larger scale event next year would be best. The City has previously sponsored the event and will again — it’s great for downtown Binghamton."

The Ice Festival was held for the first time last January and Haller had said he was looking forward to a larger event for the second year including an expansion of chili cooking competition.

The plans for February, 2020 had included ice carving demonstrations, lighted block ice sculptures, chowder and the chili contest.

Rather than cobble together a trimmed-back event, Haller said he was setting his sights on 2021 when the City of Binghamton and Broome County would be able to budget for financial support for the festival.

More From 98.1 The Hawk