The St. John’s City Council has voted to cancel its plans to host another outdoor market in the city’s downtown this holiday season.
The city had originally rallied to host a scaled-down version of the summer’s pedestrian mall featuring festive activities along two weekends in December. However, that was put on the backburner today as councillors weighed the risks associated with the recent increase of COVID-19 cases.
Ultimately, council voted 9-2 in favour of shuttering the market.
Council still encouraging shoppers to shop downtown as no new restrictions on that activity.
— Brian Callahan (@briancallahan67) November 23, 2020
Mayor Danny Breen says the decision was made following the advice of the Chief Medical Officer of Health, as gatherings and events are not recommended.
A decision on the New Year’s Eve fireworks is expected by Monday, December 14.
Santa and Friends Cancelled
(Santa Claus appears in downtown St. John’s for the 2019 parade. Photo by Earl Noble.)
Meanwhile, Downtown St. John’s has decided to cancel the Santa and Friends event scheduled for month’s end.
The event was designed to replace the annual Santa Claus Parade while reducing risks associated with the coronavirus. However, that was with the understanding that plans may shift due to the state of the province.
Gaylynne Gulliver says circumstances have changed, and while they’re disappointed to cancel the event, safety is top of mind.
Downtown St. John’s is encouraging residents to follow through with donations to the Community Food Sharing Association, which relies on the annual parade and fundraiser.
Downtown St. John's has officially cancelled Santa and Friends—the replacement event for the downtown Santa Claus parade.
The decision follows provincial guidance due to COVID-19.
Downtown SJ encourages people to contribute donations to the Community Food Sharing Association.
— Jeff Smyth (@JeffSmythVOCM) November 23, 2020
