The Saskatchewan Festival of Words announced on Thursday that they will be holding this year's festival online due to the high number of COVID-19 cases in the area.

If numbers improve, however, they're open to holding some in-person events.

In a video released by organizers, Festival member Lucinda Fawcett says they've also got some new things up their sleeves as well.

"To make our virtual even more immersive we have designed a whole new website designated just for the festival. The website allows you to gain access to all festival sessions - live or pre-recorded, podcasts, the book store, and so much more. We are offering passes with a pay-what-you-can price, with the recommended amount being $50."

The website is not up and running yet, but will be in the near future.

Amanda Farnell says that despite the festival being held virtually this year, there will still be a wide variety of activities to take part in.

"We will be hosting a multitude of sessions, from pre-recorded sessions, live steam panels, reading sessions, and workshops. All pre-recorded events will also be available in podcast format, and live stream events will be held three times a day throughout the weekend starting July 15. Workshops will be happening the week leading up to the festival starting on July 12. There will be one workshop held daily."

You must pre-register to take part in a daily workshop, and the cost for that is also pay-what-you-can, with the recommended cost of $10.

The festival runs from July 15 to 18.

You can watch the full announcement video from the Festival of Words below, and a full schedule for the event can be found by clicking here.