DeSoto Historical Society cancels parade and other events because of COVID-19 outbreak
Some of Manatee County’s biggest celebrations will not go on this year due to the novel coronavirus outbreak.
All of the Hernando DeSoto Historical Society’s events, including the Grand Parade, have been canceled, the organization announced Tuesday morning.
“With the widespread uncertainly related to COVID-19, logistical complexities, government mandates and other personal consideration in the community, we have decided this was the best course of action at this time,” DeSoto President Pat Bustle wrote in a letter announcing the decision.
All of the planned events have been canceled and won’t take place again until next year.
In an interview with the Bradenton Herald, Mayor Wayne Poston emphasized that Bradenton City Council acted appropriately in a recent meeting when it abstained from forcing DeSoto to cancel their event.
“This is why we didn’t need to enforce anything,” Poston said. “These are good people who live and work in our community and who love their community. There was no reason for government to get involved knowing they would do the right thing.”
The canceled events include the Bottle Boat Regatta, the DeSoto Ball and the Children’s Parade.
“This has been a very somber time for us at the Hernando DeSoto Historical Society, as the DeSoto Heritage Festival is the pinnacle of our year,” Bustle wrote. “We will miss all of you who were unable to celebrate with us this year and will be excited to see you next time!”
For more information, visit www.DeSotoHQ.com.
This story was originally published March 31, 2020 at 11:59 AM.
