Cities cancel Christmas parades, tree lighting

Cities cancel Christmas parades, tree lighting

Posted
In light of bad weather and increasing risks due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, all but one local municipality has canceled its Christmas parade.
 
The City of Madison announced earlier today that they would be canceling their annual Christmas parade, an event that had already been modified as a “reverse parade” to accommodate public health concerns. A reverse parade means that personal vehicles would ride a set route around stagnant floats and performances from certain organizations. The event was to be held at Liberty Park this weekend on Dec. 5.
 
“Unfortunately, due to the recent rise in Covid-19 cases and the latest advisory from the State Health Department’s recommendation to avoid social gatherings, we have made the tough decision to cancel this year's Reverse Christmas Parade,” the announcement said. 
 
City and parks officials said that they still plan to host public events when feasible.
 
“Stay tuned for exciting new things that we have planned that are safe for you and your family to enjoy here in Madison.”
 
Ridgeland officials also announced this morning that they were canceling their annual Christmas tree lighting set to start with the Ridgeland High School Choir performing at 6 p.m. in Olde Towne on Jackson Street.
 
“Due to the rising numbers in COVID-19 and the increased chance of rain this evening, we have decided to cancel the Christmas Tree Lighting,” their announcement said.
 
Ridgeland had already canceled their annual Christmas parade earlier in November citing “local school regulations regarding student participation.”
 
The Canton parade scheduled for this evening has been canceled due to the weather. Christmas Festival activities including pictures with Santa are slated to resume this weekend starting tomorrow evening, Dec. 5.
 
The Flora Chamber of Commerce was not able to be reached before press time. They currently have a Christmas parade scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 5 at 2 p.m.





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