Like many other holiday traditions in 2020, July Fourth celebrations hang in the balance, despite quickly approaching on the calendar.
Many of the longstanding festivities in metro Atlanta will not take place this year because of the coronavirus pandemic, including large celebrations like Centennial Olympic Park and Stone Mountain.
So, one thing is clear: If you’re looking to see fireworks in metro Atlanta for the Fourth, your options are not going to be as abundant as in years prior.
Marietta, Duluth, Lawrenceville, Suwanee, Lilburn and Savannah can all be counted among the Georgia cities that will not hold their Independence Day celebrations.
Canceled Fourth of July festivities include:
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» Fourth of July fireworks fizzle for Marietta, others during pandemic
» Powder Springs cancels Fourth of July celebration, fireworks show
However, there are a few places where the show will go on. Note: This list will be updated as additional events are announced.
Woodstock will alter its celebrations, but will still have fireworks at dusk, according to a Facebook post.
“We strongly encourage those who gather in the area of Woodstock Square for the show to be responsible and follow CDC guidelines,” city manager Jeff Moon said.
Traffic plans for the event will be shared on the city’s social media channels ahead of time.
» Woodstock sets July 4 fireworks but cancels parade, run
East Point will also alter its festivities this year. The city has partnered with a software company to bring attendees a free virtual fireworks show using the app, Total AR.
"Simply download this free app on your smartphone or tablet and on July 4th between 9 p.m.-midnight, hold the device at face-level while pointing it towards the sky to witness a stunning fireworks show using augmented reality," according to the city's website. The show will last 10-12 minutes.
In Cumming, celebrations will be held at the fairgrounds. According to a Facebook event post, the fireworks will begin at 9:30 p.m.
Is it safe to go to Fourth of July fireworks shows?
If you do head out to Fourth of July celebrations of any kind, here are some safety tips to keep in mind, which include keeping your distance and wearing a mask in places where social distancing is hard to adhere to.
Additionally, here are the latest recommendations on public gatherings from the Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
“The more people an individual interacts with at a gathering and the longer that interaction lasts, the higher the potential risk of becoming infected with COVID-19 and COVID-19 spreading,” according to the CDC.
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Can I set off fireworks at home instead?
If you instead decide to stay home and have a fireworks show of your own, here are some things to keep in mind about what you are allowed to shoot off and at what time. While Georgia cities cannot ban the use of fireworks, they can extend hours, regulate where fireworks are sold through zoning and enact taxes on sales, according to the Georgia Municipal Association.
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