It's a sad day for all car lovers out there, as today was supposed to mark opening day of the Syracuse Nationals.

Eight thousand cars from more than 30 states come to the state fairgrounds to revel in a weekend dedicated solely to classic cars, but it won't be happening this year due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Organizers made the decision back in June not to hold the event to ensure that out-of-town visitors had the chance to cancel reservations and get a refund.

"Everybody's really disappointed, but everybody understands. The Syracuse Nationals is more than just a car show. It's an event where people get together, reminisce, meet up. They haven't seen each other all year," said Syracuse Nationals Organizer Rob O'Connor. 

According to Visit Syracuse, the Nationals generates $15-20 million for the local economy and tourism, so it's a huge financial loss, too.

Organizers say they have already started planning to be back up and running next year.