Pittsburgh Cancels July 4th Fireworks, Many Other Activities

PITTSBURGH, PA — On the first day of southwestern Pennsylvania's transition to the state's yellow reopening phase, city officials announced the cancellation of Independence Day fireworks and a host of other activities.

Large group events that cannot comply safely with social distancing will not be a permitted. In addition to the fireworks, they include:

• City-sponsored concerts

• 5Ks, the Great Race and other races (though they can be held virtually)

• Summer Camps

• Citiparks summer youth baseball

• Summer Line Dancing

• Pistons in the Park

Playgrounds, park shelters and spray parks remain closed until further notice

“Pittsburgh residents have done a great job during these trying times staying safe and looking out for each other," Mayor Bill Peduto said. "The data shows the battle against this pandemic is far from over, however, and we must keep social distancing and other measures in place to win this fight, even when we’re enjoying the outdoors.

Activities that can comply safely with social distancing guidelines will be allowed. They include:

• Drive-in movies (by the Special Events office)

• Farmers Markets

• Tennis courts (singles matches encouraged)

• Pickle ball courts (singles matches encouraged)

• Skate parks

• Fields (but not for organized group sports)

• Frisbee Golf

• Lawn Bowling

• Expanded summer food program (likely to begin June 15)

City crews are working to reopen facilities starting today and into next week.

swimming itself is safe, it says 6 feet of distance between users is required and no more than 10 people should be allowed at any time. City pool waiting areas, locker rooms and lounging areas are too cramped to allow for appropriate distancing under the guidelines.

Final decisions on other activities and facilities have not yet been made. These include:

• Recreation centers
• Senior Healthy Active Living centers
• Block party permits
• Mellon Tennis Bubble
• Bocci
• Water fountains and water features
• Park restrooms
• Organized group sports.

Decisions on closures and allowed activities may be revisited as pandemic circumstances and federal and state guidelines change.