Storey County cancels Virginia City Fireworks amid COVID-19 concerns, Cruise to continue as planned
Submitted by Kelsey Penrose on Tue, 06/30/2020 - 3:57pm
According to Storey County Commissioner Jay Carmona the fireworks show in Virginia City has been canceled today as of 1 p.m. The Cruise will be continuing as planned.
According to Carmona, there was an issue with releasing the cancellation announcement but the fireworks are indeed cancelled this year.
Earlier today Carson Now announced that the fireworks show and cruise were still going as planned, but that information has since been revised.
A press release will be issued shortly, said Carmona, and you can follow https://storeycounty.org/ or their Facebook page here for any updated information.
While there may not be any firework shows this year, residents can celebrate Independence Day with a good old fashioned (socially distanced) cook out, hiking, fishing, or (if you planned ahead and made reservations) some camping in our beautiful Sierra Nevada wilderness.
UPDATE: The press release issued by Storey County is as follows:
Storey County has determined that it is in the best interest of our community, including residents and businesses, to cancel the Fourth of July fireworks scheduled for Saturday, July 4. The decision was based on many factors including escalating COVID-19 cases, potential threats to communities, fire-prone conditions and cancellation of other like events. Options for a fireworks display later in the year are being considered, and we will reach out to the business community and other stakeholders to discuss this potential.
County Manager Austin Osborne said, “The decision was not made lightly. The health and safety of our residents, businesses, and visitors is our foremost priority. We expect larger than normal visitation this year – with or without the fireworks – and this decision will ensure that our emergency responders and local community will not be overwhelmed while also managing COVID-related matters.”
Virginia City and its businesses are open and will celebrate Independence Day sensibly with reduced capacities, face masks and other Phase 2 protective measures.
In-lieu of a parade, an Independence Day Cruise runs from 12 to 1 p.m. with a flyover from the Nevada Air National Guard. All are encouraged to drive through Virginia City and participate in the cruise. Cruise participant line-up starts at the Fourth Ward School, located at the junction of State Route 342 and 341 at C Street, starting at 11 a.m. Registration is not required. Red, white, and blue vehicle decorations are highly encouraged. ATV/OHVs may participate during the cruise hour only.
Again, we will be open and there is much to do all day and night. Entertainment will be provided at the Bucket of Blood Saloon, Red Dog Saloon, Ponderosa Saloon and Bonanza. Attractions, including the V&T Train, trolley and mine tours, merchant shops and restaurants are open and following Phase 2 guidelines.
Osborne said, “While there will not be fireworks, Virginia City welcomes visitors to shop, eat and tour our attractions while remaining safe. We look forward to returning to normal next year.”
For tourism-related questions, contact the Virginia City Visitors Center at 775-847-7500 or the County Manager’s Office at 775-847-0968.
Very sincerely,
Austin Osborne
Storey County Manager
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