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The 2024 National Storytelling Festival in Historic Jonesborough, Tennessee has been canceled.

Michael Carson, ISC president, said it is with deep sorrow, that he is making the announcement of the cancellation of the 2024 National Storytelling Festival the first weekend in October.

“The Southeast region has been devastated by Hurricane Helene,” Carson said. “Roads and bridges in Tennessee and the surrounding states are damaged or closed. Our top priority is the health and safety of our neighbors, who graciously help us host this event every year — as well as our audience, staff, volunteers, and tellers. While this has been an emotionally difficult decision to make, we’re confident that it’s the right choice for everyone.”

Carson said (circus size) tents had already been raised  and Historic Jonesborough was ready for a great weekend of storytelling.

“However, this week, we will be handling the logistical challenges of dismantling the event,” Carson said and expressed appreciation to the many volunteers who help make the  National Storytelling Festival a great success and the hundreds who pack each of those huge tents to listen to and absorb stories well told.

(Among the tellers, who were scheduled for 2024National Storytelling Festival, are familiar faces and voices at the Pike Piddlers Storytelling Festival here in Pike County the last weekend in January.)