Jackson County Parks + Rec cancels events amid ongoing COVID-19 concerns
After consulting with the Jackson County Health Department, Jackson County Parks + Rec has announced its decision to cancel all events throughout the fall and winter, except for the annual drive-thru holiday lights spectacular Christmas in the Park.
This decision is due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Eastern Jackson County is currently in the red zone, indicating significant community spread. Nearly 500 new cases of coronavirus and six deaths occurred in the last week. The percent positive rate is 15.61%.
“Since this pandemic began, our Parks + Rec team has taken the guidance of the Jackson County Health Department seriously. New protocols were immediately put in place in the spring and summer to allow visitors the opportunity to safely enjoy our parks and lakes,” said Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. “Public health remains a priority as we transition into the fall and winter where our annual traditions attract thousands from across the metro. We cannot put the lives of our family, friends, and neighbors at risk of a virus that has no boundaries. I know it will be difficult missing out on the events we love, but we must do everything we can to mitigate the spread of the virus now so we can enjoy them in the future.”
Cancelled signature events include, but are not limited to, the Missouri Town 1855 Fall Festival of Arts, Crafts & Music; Grand Festival of Chez les Canses and Fall Muster at Fort Osage National Historic Landmark; Dogtober Fest at Kemper Outdoor Education Center; Trip the Light Fantastic Bike Ride thru Christmas in the Park; and Christmas in the Sky at Longview Lake Beach.
“We look forward to the day that we can welcome the public back to these treasured family traditions,” said Jackson County Parks + Rec Director Michele Newman. “I am happy to share that Christmas in the Park, Jackson County’s drive-thru holiday wonderland, will open as scheduled on Wednesday, November 25.”
Christmas in the Park is not being cancelled due to its nature and design that allows visitors to enjoy the more than 500,000 holiday lights and 175 animated displays from the comfort and safety of their vehicle with their family.
For event updates, visit www.makeyourdayhere.com.