Frisco Freedom Fest 2020 was scheduled for July 3-4 with social distancing protocols in place alongside the usual vendors, children's activities, food services and live entertainment. Those have all been canceled.
“Given the rising number of active [COVID-19] cases and hospitalizations throughout North Texas, we’re moving forward with an abundance of caution to help keep our city safe,” Frisco Mayor Jeff Cheney said in a news release. “We’re going to host a fireworks show like none we’ve seen before here in Frisco. United we’ll stand, at least six feet apart, which has become the 2020 way of doing things. We’re excited to celebrate America’s birthday and our independence.”
The 20-minute fireworks show, hosted by the city and FC Dallas, is scheduled for 9:30 p.m. July 4. Four FC Dallas parking lots will be available for the public to view the fireworks: Tundra Platinum, Camry Gold Lot, Corolla Red Lots and Highlander Green Lots. The city news release said visitors are encouraged to stay in their vehicles; those who do not should maintain a social distance of at least six feet from people not in their party.
The 20-minute show will also be visible from around the George A. Purefoy Municipal Center and Toyota Stadium. The fireworks show will be streamed live on the city’s website and Facebook page.
Among the city-hosted attractions that were to be part of Freedom Fest but have now been canceled were the Hotter ‘n Firecrackers 5K and Glow Run, Taste of Frisco and the Party in the Plaza.
“Our staff has been working behind the scenes for months to put protocols in place so we could safely celebrate while social distancing and sanitizing; however, the safety of our residents, staff, visitors and vendors are our greater priority,” Cheney said. “So, moving forward with the ‘Fest’ in Frisco Freedom Fest just doesn’t make sense this year.”
Community Impact Newspaper was among the sponsors for this year’s events.
