NATCHEZ — Vendors and collectors of jams, crafts, art and other kitschy items will have to fend for themselves this year.

The Historic Jefferson College has traditionally hosted The Copper Magnolia Festival late in the summer, but it has been canceled this year after 28 years due to state budget cuts, HJC Director Robin Person said.

“All (state) departments had budgets cuts, and the department of archives and history is certainly no exception,” Person said.

Mississippi Department of History and Archives Division Director Jim Barnett said the state cut 9 percent from its budget in July.

Person said the decision to cut the Copper Magnolia Festival instead of other programs was based on the weather risk presented by an outdoor event and the cost of setting up booths, paying a band and providing refreshments.

Person said attendance has been dropping at the festival in recent years, as well.

However, this year’s cancellation does not necessarily mean the end of the rope for outdoor crafts, food and fun.

“We would like to be able to do it again in the future,” Person said.

Barnett said the department has suffered other cuts, including cutting back on advertising, landscaping, security and leaving job vacancies open.

“But we try to do the best we can with what we have,” Barnett said.

Person said she hopes the community continues to support the Historic Jefferson College now more than ever, considering its financial trouble.

“Our presence here depends on people coming here,” Person said.

Person said Mississippi taxpayers own the Historic Jefferson College and historic properties, so she hopes residents take advantage of what they have to offer.