One of the biggest soirees of the year was canceled Wednesday out of concern for the coronavirus.

The Mayor’s Awards in the Arts Event, an annual evening affair that highlights excellence in local artists, supporters of the arts and art within schools, was canceled because of the pandemic. Mayor Steve Widmyer said that while he was looking forward to the Oct. 7 event at the Hagadone Event Center in Coeur d’Alene, keeping people safe from COVID-19 is the priority.

“While I am disappointed in the cancellation, I support and understand the Arts Commission’s decision," he said.

Widmyer added that though an evening celebrating local artists won’t be going forward, locals should still try to absorb art.

“Art makes people happy,” he said.

Winners of the yearly awards have not yet been tabulated. City administrator Troy Tymesen — who also serves as city liaison on the Arts Commission — said any nominations that have been received will carry over for consideration for an award at next year’s ceremony.