One of the more popular music festivals during the summer months has been the Winstock Country Music Festival in nearby Winsted. The event is coming this weekend (Friday, Aug. 20 and Saturday, Aug. 21) and the campground is opening Thursday. However, due to the drought conditions impacting much of Minnesota, a full burning ban has been enacted.

In a release sent out today (Aug. 17), Winstock organizers said the following: “Due to ongoing dry and warm conditions, and to protect our guests and property, Winstock organizers are enacting a full burning ban for this year’s event. Anyone found in violation of this burning ban could be subject to forfeit their campsite.

‘We know campfires are a big part of the Winstock experience, so we waited as long as possible to make this decision,’ said Winstock Country Music Festival Committee Chairman Dave Danielson. ‘However, conditions just don’t warrant it this year, and we need to look out for the safety of everyone.’”