FORT MYERS, Fla. — The Dunbar Festival committee announced the cancellation of this year's annual Easter parade due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The parade has been a long time tradition for the community.
The president telling Fox 4 they had to do what is best for the community and are gearing up for celebration when given the all-clear.
“We are extremely disappointed,” said Martin Byrd.
He says this year’s permit request was not approved by the city due to precautions of COVID-19.
For nearly 75 years the Dunbar Easter parade has been a part of this community.
“If you grew up in this area for a length of time you went to the Easter parade,” said Byrd.
Dozens of local organizations won’t have the opportunity this year to simply say thanks.
“Show their community pride, they want to get the word out about their business, they want to tell their community thank you for supporting them throughout the year, ” said Bryd.
The pastor of New Life Worship Center says the parade was something to look forward to, it brought light and positivity.
“It does affect that community coming together, we have really fought to keep that community and people really coming together,” said Bishop Eric Johnson.
The festival committee says they are actively looking for ways to bring people together when it is safe to proceed with events.
“We are going to try to do something in the summer potentially to still do a parade in the community, ” said Martin Byrd.
