Well, one of Tucson’s most wanted events couldn’t escape the grip that COVID has on the world, but luckily the historic hotel has a backup plan.

With the cancellation of the annual Dillinger Days, Hotel Congress is hosting a “Congress Cookout” —a Dillinger Days edition — from 4:15 – 7:15 p.m. on Sunday, January 24.

Think of it as a toned-down version of the Dillinger Days experience.

Hotel Congress posted the following on Facebook:

“We are super bummed, but the safety and health of our community, guests, and employees is much more important.”

The cookout is taking place outdoors only in the Congress plaza area, offering a safer and socially distanced encounter. Don’t fret, though. The event will still feature music from Kings of Pleasure, a vintage car or two will be parked near the hotel, whiskey tastings, a gun show experience, and a “best-dressed” contest.

Oh, and you can’t forget the grub.

The scent of delicious barbecue will be swirling throughout the plaza at Hotel Congress, including meal deals from the Plaza Eats food truck.

Tickets are $10 per person and it may be wise to purchase them sooner rather than later since seating is much more limited than past events in the plaza.

Additionally, the original fire truck that helped put out the fire at Hotel Congress 87 years ago will be on display as well, so be sure to check that out, too.

Hotel Congress is located downtown at 311 E. Congress St. For more information, call (520) 622-8848, or visit hotelcongress.com.