COVID-19 fears again force postponement of Manatee River fireworks show
The Fourth of July fireworks show over the Manatee River that was rescheduled for Labor Day has been postponed again.
Manatee County, Bradenton and Palmetto officials announced the postponement Thursday amid concerns about the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and, “to avoid large gatherings next month.”
Manatee County Administrator Cheri Coryea, Bradenton Mayor Wayne Poston and Palmetto Mayor Shirley Groover Bryant all agreed it was best for public safety given the surge in COVID-19 cases in the area.
No new date has been set.
“Once again we find ourselves needing to postpone the ‘July Fourth Fireworks’ due to COVID-19,” Bryant said in a prepared statement. “We ask everyone to follow all the safety guidelines for this awful virus so we might return to normal soon and we can reschedule, as we do have much to celebrate and be thankful for.”
Poston said he was excited for the show to be held on Labor Day to celebrate, “our workers most impacted by the pandemic,” including health care workers, first responders, law enforcement and others in essential services.
“But fears of harming our residents, including those we intended to celebrate, have caused us to postpone again,” Poston said.