LAUREL, Del.- The town of Laurel announced Wednesday the cancellation of this year's 4th of July celebration and fireworks display.
In a statement, Town Manager Jamie Smith said the decision by town officials to cancel the event was based on the continued increase in COVID 19 cases in Sussex County and the likelihood that social distancing will be required through summer.
The town further went on to say that the success of the annual event is dependent on the support and donations from local businesses and businesses within the surrounding area and it is "unfair to ask and expect donations for the best fireworks display on the Eastern Shore from businesses sponsors and general public who are struggling financially during this time."
"We plan to resume this community uplifting event with a bigger bang than ever in 2021," the statement continued. "The health and safety of the community and surrounding community is our top priority as well as the ability for our businesses and general public to be able to recover from this evolving situation."