July 4th Pet Parade and Old-Fashioned Festival cancelled for 2020
May 13, 2020
The Bend Park and Recreation District has cancelled the July 4th Pet Parade and Old-Fashioned Festival in Drake Park for 2020. The decision follows Governor Brown’s mandate that large gatherings such as festivals, fairs and events be canceled through at least September.
“The Pet Parade and Old-Fashioned Festival are cherished events in our community and this is a difficult announcement to make,” said Matt Mercer, recreation services director for Bend Park and Recreation District. “But the health and safety of the community and our staff is our top priority.”
The Pet Parade is an Oregon Heritage Event dating back to 1932. The only other year the parade did not take place was 1943, during World War II.
District staff is planning alternate ways to honor the event’s traditions including virtual activities.
“While we can’t all gather together, we have some great ideas in the works that will continue the spirit of the events. We hope the community will join us in new ways to celebrate our nation’s independence,” added Mercer.
Updates and information will be available soon on the Bend Park and Recreation District website and social media channels.
Other large events that take place as rentals in Bend parks and facilities will also be canceled if they cannot meet the state requirements.