Restrictions to impact Canada Day
By Yoos, Cam on April 27, 2020.
Greg Bobinec
Lethbridge Herald
As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and a continuation of Alberta Health restrictions on mass gatherings of 15 or more people, residents are being asked to find new ideas to celebrate Canada Day, as planned events and activities for the City of Lethbridge are cancelled.
“I encourage our residents to have fun and creative Canada Day celebrations in their own backyards while still observing proper social and physical distancing practices and by adhering to mass gathering restrictions,” says Mayor Chris Spearman.
“As Alberta Health has said, we must do everything we can to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Festivals and large gatherings hold the potential to be super-spreader events. So, for Canada Day 2020, let us celebrate our strength, our resilience and our values. Let’s join with the rest of Canada and show our true Canadian spirit from the comfort of our homes.”
Alberta’s chief medical officer of health, Dr. Deena Hinshaw said last week that no festivals or large gatherings will be able to take place in Alberta until September at the earliest. The current orders in place prohibit gatherings of more than 15 people and also require people gathered in groups of fewer than 15 to maintain a distance of two metres from one another. The federal government also recently announced virtual national Canada Day festivities in Ottawa.
The annual fireworks display is among the events that will not take place in Lethbridge on July 1, as all food, merchandise and performers are currently being notified of this decision.
“I know that this decision will come as a disappointment to many residents who enjoy this annual event, but discussions are already underway to celebrate Canada Day in a different format,” says Spearman. “Thanks to all Lethbridge residents who are working so hard to prevent the spread of COVID-19.”
More details on how the City of Lethbridge will celebrate Canada Day will be revealed closer to July 1. Organizers look forward to seeing everyone back for Canada Day celebrations across the city in 2021. For more information on the City’s response to COVID-19, including closures and services changes, visit Lethbridge.ca/covid19.
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