Coronavirus In RI: Bristol Scaling Back Fourth Of July Events

BRISTOL, RI — Bristol Fourth of July Committee Chair Michele Martins said she is still hopeful the town will be able to hold some type of fireworks fun this year despite making plans to scale back the annual celebration amid the coronavirus health emergency. Martin said in a letter that while events have not been canceled, some of them may be postponed until later in the summer.

"We are all in agreement that, based on the current situation, it will be necessary to downsize the 2020 celebration, including the parade, which is still scheduled for July 4th," Martins said. "Many of the events will be postponed and will take place throughout the summer, ending with the Summer Concert Series joined with the Last Night Concert."

Martins said the committee has been working with town's police, fire and town administrators to determine the best possible course of action as events evolve throughout the spring.

"The Bristol Fourth of July Committee prides itself as having the longest continuous celebration in the nation," she said. "There have been times over its 235-year history when the celebration has had to be modified. However, the Patriotic Exercises have always taken place. We are now facing a time of uncertainty and must make the best plan possible with the flexibility of changes as needed."

Martins asked residents to check social media for updates in the upcoming weeks.

"Your continued support is appreciated," she said. "We realize that we live in a world that expects an instant response, but in this situation we have to hope for the best and be patient."

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