Harford Mall Cancels Events Including Easter Bunny Photos

BEL AIR, MD — The Harford Mall has canceled or postponed all events, including its Easter bunny photo shoots. Officials from the mall announced the decision Friday, issuing a statement that the measure was "out of an abundance of caution."

Mall officials cited government guidance in deciding to suspend programmed events. The mall itself will remain open.

"Out of an abundance of caution and based on guidelines for public meetings and events from the CDC and other governmental agencies, we have made the decision to cancel or postpone all planned events, which includes our seasonal Easter Bunny photo program," the statement from Harford Mall said. "The health and well-being of the community we serve, our customers, employees and retail partners is our top priority."

The Easter bunny had been slated to be at the mall from March 21 to April 11. Easter is April 12.

The number of confirmed cases of the new coronavirus in Maryland has risen to 17, the Maryland Department of Health reported Friday, marking an increase of five since Thursday. One Harford County resident tested positive Sunday, and she has been hospitalized, officials said.

"As testing increases, public health officials tell us the number of cases will grow," Harford County Executive Barry Glassman said Friday. He ordered county-owned recreation facilities to close and canceled county events, effective immediately.

Schools statewide will be closed starting Monday through Friday, March 27, to promote social distancing and allow buildings and buses to be disinfected. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, social distancing calls for avoiding mass gatherings, keeping about 6 feet between people and staying out of group gatherings in limited proximity when possible.

"We will continue to monitor updates from the CDC as well as local health officials and government agencies," the statement from the Harford Mall said, "and will resume our event schedule as soon as it is appropriate."

See Also:

• Harford County Coronavirus Response: Rec Centers Closed And More
• HCPS Expands On School Closure Guidance
• Bel Air Cautions Public About Large Events