Because of the continuing COVID-19 pandemic, the Mathews Historical Museum has canceled May Faire for the second year in a row.

It had been scheduled to take place on May 1 with the same theme, a focus on local watermen, as for the heritage celebration that was in the works for 2020 when the pandemic struck last winter.

A letter to supporters from the museum said that May Faire has been a major source of operating income for the museum, which is located at 200 Main Street and is in the process of planning improvements for permanent exhibits.

In May Faire’s place, the museum will concentrate on offering special events and displays where attendance size can be limited but which can produce income, the letter said.

In addition to a Valentine’s event on Feb. 13 (see related story), the museum is planning such activities as St. Patrick’s Corned Beef Soup takeout, a Christmas indoor bazaar, and hot dog and chili events. The retail shop of new and gently used items will be opened...