FAIRPORT, N.Y. — One of spring's most popular festivals in the Rochester area will go on this year. Fairport Canal Days organizers say it will be smaller, but safe.

The pandemic canceled last year’s event. Organizers say this year’s Canal Days will be held June 5 and 6, after local and state officials signed off on their plans.

“It’s tenfold the amount of things that we have to look at and be aware of,” said Doug Sharpe, owner of RV&E Bike and Skate in Fairport. “And to make sure we’re doing our due diligence to keep everybody safe.”

Sharpe, who is also president of Fairport Perinton Merchants Association, says the big crowds are great for business.

“Those people who do walk down the street, they go, ‘oh, I never knew there was a bicycle shop in the village of Fairport,”’ he said. ‘“I’m gonna check it out.”’

Capacity for this year’s Fairport Canal Days will be capped at 12,000 people at a time, much smaller than the usual crowds, which for a two-day weekend can number well over 100,000. Compared to past years, this year's festival will have half as many artisans and vendors. Because of ongoing repairs to the lift bridge in the middle of the village, the festival will be confined to the north side of town.

But unlike last year — it’s happening.

“After all we've been through over the past year and all the sacrifices we've made,” said Monroe County Executive Adam Bello. “We really need some good news."