‘Difficult decision.’ Warner Robins cancels Independence Day celebration due to coronavirus

Warner Robins announced Tuesday it had canceled its annual Independence Day Celebration because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This was a difficult decision that was made in the interests of preventing the spread of this disease and protecting our citizens, our city, and our state,” read a city of Warner Robins news release. “We thank our citizens, sponsors, and community partners for their continued support and participation in this annual event.

“We look forward to coming together again in 2021 to celebrate Independence Day. The health, safety, and well-being of everyone involved in the event is paramount.”

The announcement came a day after Gov. Brian Kemp’s executive order allowing some businesses to reopen on Friday and Monday with certain restrictions amid warnings from health officials that COVID-19 cases in Middle Georgia haven’t peaked.

This story was originally published April 21, 2020 at 10:59 AM.