SANTA MONICA—On Monday, May 25, event coordinator Jeff Jarow confirmed that Santa Monica’s annual 4th of July parade was canceled due to the COVID-19 crisis. The fireworks by Santa Monica College have also been canceled.

“Consistent with LA County Department of Public Health’s order prohibiting all large gatherings, the beloved 4th of July parade would not be permitted at this time… The City is working closely with LA County as they slowly relax Safer At Home orders, and will share more information about gatherings when the County provides guidance,” said Public Information Officer, Constance Farrell, for the city of Santa Monica.

The 50th anniversary of the Los Angeles Pride parade also canceled in-person festivities, but will be held digitally.

The Santa Monica event is too large a gathering to abide by the social distancing guidelines. Jarrow stood by the city’s decision to forego the parade and prioritize issues of health. He expressed that there may be an event later in the summer if restrictions are lifted. This would be a “combined graduation/caregiver/first responder event” that adapts a new route of traveling throughout the city.