West Orange 4th Of July Fireworks 2020 Postponed

WEST ORANGE, NJ – July 4 events across the country will not look the same this year thanks to the coronavirus. Many cities and towns have been forced to postpone their annual Fourth of July events, including West Orange.

On June 12, West Orange officials announced that "due to coronavirus health concerns and large gathering limitations," the township July 4th fireworks and festivities have been postponed.

A rescheduled date for the fireworks wasn't immediately available.

There won't be trash or bulk trash pick up on Saturday, July 4.

REPORT FIREWORKS IN WEST ORANGE

Locally, West Orange officials have been telling residents to report the misuse of fireworks to authorities.

"We urge all residents to remember the obligations we all have, especially during summertime, to be good neighbors while enjoying outdoor celebrations," Mayor Robert Parisi stated in a municipal news release in June.

"The West Orange Police department has been receiving more calls than normal regarding the use of fireworks," Parisi said. "Although, they may seem harmless, launching exploding fireworks is unlawful and dangerous, and disturbing to others. Pinpointing their origin can often be difficult but the WOPD is committed to keeping the public safe from their misuse."

Residents can report all ongoing occurrences to the police desk at 973-325-4000.

ESSEX COUNTY

Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo Jr. announced on June 1 that the 2020 Essex County Summer Music Concert Series and Fireworks displays have been cancelled because of the coronavirus.

"Our Summer Concert Series and Fireworks Spectaculars are much anticipated events that attract spectators from throughout Essex County and beyond," DiVincenzo said. "They are an opportunity for us to bond as a community, enjoy an evening outdoors, and celebrate the birth of our nation and our freedoms. However, our battle against the coronavirus is far from over. In the abundance of caution, we have decided that cancelling our concerts and fireworks displays are the best option to help keep our residents safe. We look forward to next year when we can gather together again in the cool summer evenings and enjoy our favorite music in our beautiful parks."
Essex County traditionally has hosted three Fireworks Spectaculars in Branch Brook and Weequahic Parks in Newark and Brookdale Park in Bloomfield/Montclair to celebrate Independence Day.

In recent years, the Summer Concert Series has included about 30 different events that have included a variety of music genres, cover bands and day-long festivals.

FIREWORKS ALTERNATIVES?

Due to the pandemic, counties or cities may adjust or cancel events at the last minute. Check your event before you go.

The State Fair Meadowlands, which normally has fireworks on July 3 and 4, is now running instead from July 23 through Aug. 9. When they update their schedule it will be here.

Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks are taking place on July 4 as usual, and will be shown on NBC. The store chain has not yet announced specifics.

Know of other events in the area? Post them on the Patch calendar or share details on our free Neighbor Post feature.

This article contains reporting from the Patch national desk

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