Naples cancels Christmas parade, New Year’s Eve fireworks

The Naples City Council voted unanimously Wednesday morning to cancel two big annual events: the Christmas parade and New Year’s Eve fireworks.

The parade along 5th Avenue and the fireworks at the Naples Pier draw thousands of people every year, but the council said due to the “ongoing nature of COVID-19 pandemic and an increasing number of confirmed cases in Collier County, city staff and emergency management personnel recommended the cancellation.”

The city’s statement went on to say that because both events draw large crowds and many out-of-town visitors, the ability to social distance is a concern and therefore increases the risk of a local outbreak. They also expressed concern about being able to enforce face coverings.

“We are saddened we had to take this action and know how important these events are to our community. The action to cancel was necessary to mitigate further community spread of the virus.  We look forward to the day when the pandemic is behind us,” said Charles Chapman, city manager.

The city is reminding people that fireworks are prohibited west of Gulf Shore Boulevard, including the beach, at all times.

WINK News is working to find out what economic impact these cancellations could have on the city.