Northfield City Cancels July 4 Fireworks

Press release from the City of Northfield:

June 15, 2020

Due to COVID-19 and large gathering restrictions currently in effect by executive order of Governor Walz, the Northfield City Council voted to cancel the Fourth of July fireworks for 2020.

“It was a sad decision and we know people will be disappointed,” said Ben Martig, city administrator, “but the Minnesota Department of Health has indicated that large outdoor gatherings of more than 250 people still pose significant risk to spread COVID-19.”

“We believe it is unrealistic that we could limit the number of people gathering to 250 for our fireworks display,” said Martig, “and we are continuing to follow the expert requirements and recommendations of the state and county public health officials so we can keep our friends and neighbors safe by controlling the spread of COVID-19.”

Outdoor gatherings of 250 or more are currently not allowed under the governor’s executive order.

The City of Northfield encourages community members to continue to be diligent in the fight against COVID-19 by following CDC and state guidelines including washing hands, maintaining physical distance of at least 6 feet apart, using facial coverings, and staying home if sick.

This press release was produced by the City of Northfield. The views expressed here are the author’s own.