MS Coast cities cancel more Christmas events after state issues new COVID-19 guidelines
Cities and counties across the Coast have announced the cancellation of holiday events because of the unprecedented surge in coronavirus cases.
The city of Pascagoula announced Wednesday the cancellation of the annual Downtown for the Holidays event this weekend due to new public health guidelines and a surge in coronavirus cases.
D’Iberville followed on Thursday, calling off this weekend’s movie Night, Santa’s Workshop, the Christmas parade and tree lighting to protect the health and safety of citizens, volunteers and city employees.
Harrison County said Friday that the Christmas in Woolmarket Park has been canceled. Christmas lights in the park will be lit nightly from dusk til dawn for individual and family viewing.
The Ocean Springs Carnival Association previously announced the cancellation of the annual Discover Christmas Parade that was set to roll Sunday.
“The Downtown for the Holidays committee, Main Street Pascagoula and Pascagoula city leaders have discussed this at length and it’s a decision no one wanted to make,” Pascagoula said in a release.
The city’s mayor is Dr. Steve Demetropoulos, a family physician with Singing River Health System who won the runoff election in February just before the pandemic began.
The decision to cancel events came as a result of new public health guidelines the Mississippi State Department of Health released Wednesday.
State Health Officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs said residents should avoid all social gatherings, including parties and social events, sporting events and more.
“MSDH recommends that Mississippians only participate in work, school or other absolutely essential activities,” the agency said.
The annual holiday event in Pascagoula was set to celebrate its 20th year. It has brought out residents for the annual tree lighting, shopping and other activities and performances, including a visit from Santa.
The annual Discover Christmas Parade in Ocean Springs was canceled before the health warning.
“Due to a number of circumstances, we do not feel we have the participation to put on a magical and safe event,” the association posted on Facebook on Nov. 25.
However, the group is asking residents, businesses and social groups to consider donating an unwrapped toy to the Discovery Christmas Drive.
To donate, drop a toy off at the following the places or visit discoverchristmasparade.com for more information on how to make an online donation.
- OS Lumber & Supply Company
- Ocean Springs Elks 2501
- Macedonia Baptist Church in Ocean Springs
- AC Man Heating and Air Conditioning Services
This story was originally published December 2, 2020 at 5:38 PM.
