No holiday parade planned because of novel coronavirus pandemic concerns
“The holidays may look a little different this year,” leaders of the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce say in a news release, “but it is more important than ever to support our local businesses.”
On Nov. 28, the members of the Siesta Chamber will celebrate Small Business Saturday as they kick off the holiday season, the news release notes. Even though the traditional Siesta Key Holiday Parade has been canceled, the Key will be bright with festive décor, a storefront- and window-decorating contest, and the traditional tree-lighting ceremony at the gazebo in Siesta Key Village, the release adds.
The decision on the parade follows cancellation of other annual Siesta Key Chamber events this year — including the Crystal Classic International Sand Sculpting Festival, normally held this month, and the Children’s Easter Party in April — as a result of difficulties in ensuring that visitors could remain safe from contracting COVID-19.
The Siesta Key Holiday Parade typically draws thousands of children and adults, who line Ocean Boulevard to see the entries, including St. Nick.
“Local businesses are encouraged to create their own holiday specials and activities, which will be promoted by the Siesta Key Chamber,” the release continues.
A visit from Santa is being planned for Sunday, Dec. 20, from 3 to 5 p.m. at a South Village location, the release notes. Details about that event will be announced soon, the release says.
For more information, contact events@siestakeychamber.com, visit http://www.siestakeychamber.com, or call 941-349-3800.