CAPE CORAL, Fla. — The City of Cape Coral postponing its annual 4th of July Red, White and Boom festival.
The event typically brings in tens of thousands of people and tons of business for the local economy.
“No 4th of July, bye-bye 10 thousand dollars, it’s gone forget about it, ” said Vollen Loucks.
Vollen Loucks, manager and chef of Duval Street restaurant in Downtown Cape Coral says this news couldn't have come at a worst time, as they are still recovering from losses during the COVID-19 shutdowns.
The City of Cape Coral announced its annual 4th of July festival will be postponed to labor day weekend.
“I know July 4th isn’t September 5th, but it is labor day weekend and when you combine the two it’s gonna be one heck of a party, ” said Todd King.
Some worry people will rush to neighboring city’s 4th of July celebrations, creating even larger crowds.
“If they don’t have it here, they’re gonna go to Fort Myers Beach, Fort Myers if there having it, or they’re going to go to Punta Gorda, Port Charlotte, ” said Greg Rison.
Loucks says its been weeks since they’ve operated at full capacity, postponing the event until September could have a devastating impact on business.
“The thing that I’m concerned with is employees. How long can I keep employees if I have no business?” said Vollen Loucks.
He says in tuff times, they’ve got to get creative, offering specials and other incentives.
“I’m going to have to figure something out, I’m going to have to figure something out to store up some business, ” said Vollen Loucks.
The City of Cape Coral says the labor day festival will be a two-part event, also celebrating the city’s 50th anniversary.
