INCLINE VILLAGE — For the second consecutive year officials in Incline Village and Crystal Bay have decided to suspend their annual Fourth of July fireworks show—a decision they said they know will be met with disappointment. The Incline Village Crystal Bay Firework Coalition made the announcement this week, nearly four months ahead of the holiday.
“The COVID-19 impacts on the health and safety of our visitors and residents alike continue to create uncertainty in the planning and execution of this traditional event,” said Andy Chapman, president and CEO of Incline Village Crystal Bay Visitors Bureau. “With our experience of high visitation in the Tahoe Basin last summer, the Coalition thought it prudent to take a step back to look at the event’s effect on our region as a whole.”
Last week Washoe County Health District’s Health Officer Kevin Dick said things can change quickly when it comes to COVID-19, and the county had yet to determine what restrictions may look like in the future. The county will likely take over local control of COVID-19 mitigation measures starting May 1, when Nevada’s counties will have the opportunity to adjust statewide restrictions based on community risk.
Local business leaders agreed with the decision to cancel the fireworks show, adding that the safety and security of the community and its guests was a priority.
“Last summer, despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the community continued to experience significant visitation to IVGID beaches, not only over the Fourth of July holiday but throughout the summer season,” said Indra Winquest, general manager of Incline Village General Improvement District.
“While we are optimistic that we are starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel with this crisis, we must still be vigilant and responsible to ensure that we provide a safe and healthy experience for our community this coming summer season,” she added.
Incline Village officials did note that smaller, community-oriented events may still take place for residents and visitors to celebrate the holiday. They also said the fireworks would more than likely return in 2022.
Source: Incline Village Crystal Bay Visitors Bureau
