Looking to celebrate July 4th? Here are some Columbus area events
The ongoing COVID-19 outbreak has caused many Fourth of July events in the Chattahoochee Valley to be postponed or even outright canceled, while many others are continuing in-person or virtually.
Here’s a list of events that are scheduled to take place on Saturday, as well as events that have been canceled due to coronavirus.
LGBT Fourth of July Bash
Colgay PRIDE of Columbus, Georgia is hosting a LGBT Fourth of July Bash event from 8 p.m. until 11 p.m. at 1717 42nd St. According to the group’s Facebook post, the event will feature drag shows, a bonfire and BBQ, as well as a fireworks display.
The event is free and kid friendly, according to the post.
2020 RiverBlast Festival
The National Civil War Naval Museum in Columbus will host a RiverBlast Festival on July 4. The event, located at 1002 Victory Drive, will take place from 10 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.
The event is free and open to the public and will showcase live entertainment, cannon firings and more. According to the event’s page, organizers will be following CDC guidelines for large gatherings.
Fireworks, Food, Family, & Fun event at Callaway Gardens
All weekend long, Callaway Gardens in Pine Mountain is hosting various Fourth of July activities. According to their website, there will be a nightly fireworks show from July 3 through 5.
The resort will also have drink and food specials, as well as discounted admission all weekend long.
City of Auburn 2020 Independence Day Celebration
The City of Auburn will be shooting off fireworks beginning at 9 p.m. on July 4. According to the City of Auburn’s website, event attendees are asked to remain in their vehicles during the show.
For optimal viewing, the website suggests parking at Duck Samford Stadium, 1840 East Glenn Ave., Duck Samford and Bo Cavin Baseball fields and 333 Airport Road. Fireworks can be seen as far as the Auburn Mall parking lot, according to the website.
City closures
According to a post on the Columbus Consolidated Government’s Facebook page, there will be no trash pickups on July 3. All other trash pickups will continue on their normally scheduled day.
There will be no bus service on July 4.
Cooper Creek and Lake Oliver Marina will be open from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. and 8 a.m. until 6 p.m., respectively.
All other government buildings and offices including the Civic Center, Animal Control and Recorder’s Court will be closed on July 3.
Safety recommendations
The CDC recommends that anyone attending a large gathering during the coronavirus pandemic should wear a face covering and stay six-feet apart from others as much as possible. They also recommend frequent hand washing or the use of hand sanitizer when washing isn’t available.
For more guidelines, check out the CDC’s website.