This Fourth of july will definitely look not the same as years past. “Independence Day is a day of unity over the US, we're able to really use this year,” says Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of Insurance, Florida's top independent homeowners insurance agency.
Closings and Cancellations
Anxiety over coronavirus and also the civil unrest over systemic racism in our country has numerous people on edge and a unified celebration would be welcome. However, with coronavirus surging in Florida, many municipal Independence Day activities, such as parades and fireworks displays are modified or cancelled. Some beaches across the state are closing too.
Nevertheless, do not let the cancellations depress you. Not all activities are quashed. Prior to making any plans, check to see what's open. Location openings and closings and scheduled events change daily.
To look at your local beach openings, begin to see the link that follows.
https://www.floridatoday.com/story/news/2021/06/30/coronavirus-florida-beaches-closed-open-july-4-holiday/3277961001/
For state parks checkout the website: https://www.floridastateparks.org/
Community social networking pages make the perfect resource to discover what's happening in your town.
Fireworks
Whether you like them or despise them, fireworks are having a moment. Based on NBC News, fireworks sellers expected to visit a 20 to 50 percent drop in sales this year due to COVID-19. However, some fireworks stores have a 200 percent plus increase in sales. Sellers attribute the spike to boredom.
This year, Gov. DeSantis signed an invoice making fireworks legal on July 4th, New Year's Eve and New Year's Day. Florida's fireworks law defines “fireworks” as everything that goes into the air or explodes.
“Always use caution when lighting fireworks. Adult supervision is a must, says Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of Insurance, Florida's largest independent homeowners insurance agency.
Also, The nation's Safety Council urges never re-light a malfunctioning firework and a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don't work.
If you prefer another person oversee the fireworks display, you can watch NBC's Macy's Fourth of july Fireworks from New York at 8-10 p.m.
PBS is broadcasting A Capitol Fourth from D.C. at 8-9:30p.m. Both shows includes live performances in addition to fireworks. Many local firework shows will be streamed live on Facebook.
Social Distance Celebration
If you are not prepared to be for sale crowds, you can enjoy a fun and safe celebration from home. Host a household Fourth of july run or ride a bike. Race bibs and medals are available online and do not forget prizes to motivate the household.
An Outdoor movie or games such as badminton and corn-hole or activating the sprinkler can provide fun.
If you choose to host a cook-out, the following are ideas to keep everyone healthy.
- Smaller is better
- Stay outside as much as possible
- Keep lots of hand sanitizer around
- Provide drinks from individual bottles and cans
- Use disposable utensils and plates
- Designate one person to cook at the grill
- Offer individually wrapped and packaged snacks, condiments and desserts
- Place trash cans around
While this Independence Day we might have to sacrifice our usual traditions, it's still each day to be thankful. Enjoy, celebrate and remain safe.
