OSHKOSH, WI (WTAQ) – The City of Oshkosh is canceling their 4th of July parade and fireworks show due to concerns over COVID-19.
“After weeks of deliberation, the team prioritized public health and safety and made the difficult decision to cancel the events. We understand the community’s disappointment as we feel it too,” said Mark Rohloff, City Manager. “Events such as these encourage large groups to gather. With the current COVID-19 situation, group gatherings of any size outside the household are discouraged by public health agencies. The city felt it would be irresponsible to provide events where social distancing would be problematic.”
The city reports it is still in the midst of a health emergency as they work to help control the spread of the coronavirus. With 4th of July events being canceled in other nearby communities – city officials were concerned that residents of those communities would add to an already anticipated large crowd in Oshkosh.
“The cooperation and assistance of the general public is needed to make sure that we as a community maintain the progress we have made thus far and not undo all of the sacrifices over the past two months to stop the spread of this disease. Our top priority is to protect the health and safety of our community,” said Rohloff.
The city of Oshkosh encourages its residents and businesses to continue following safe and healthy practices.
For further information, please contact the Parks Department at (920) 236-5080. Updates on the response to COVID‐19 may be found on the city of Oshkosh webpage.
