Inability to social distance causes schedule changes
By Ally Lanasa, Staff Writer
(Sept. 17, 2020) The covid-19 Grinch might not steal Christmas this year, but it has caused the cancellation of one of Berlin’s signature Christmas events — the annual parade, which draws throngs of spectators from the area.
The pandemic, and the town’s efforts to curb its spread, also claimed Berlin’s popular New Year’s Eve celebration and ball drop, along with other events this fall and winter.
Berlin officials announced its revised event schedule last Friday to the disappointment of residents throughout northern Worcester County.
“Throughout this pandemic, we tried to take a very measured and reasonable response,” said Mayor Gee Williams. “We followed the governor’s guidelines throughout, and I think that this is just another example …When the conditions are like this, we just think it’s better to make a decision on everyone’s behalf.”
Williams added that the reason for the cancellations of the Christmas parade and New Year’s Eve celebration is because it is impossible to enforce social distancing at those events.
“Historically, for many years, the sidewalks have been absolutely packed with children and their parents,” he said. “That’s a few thousand people. There’s no way to social distance something like that … I feel strongly that it takes the parents off the hotspot by making this decision that’s in the best interest of the health of the community.”
The town’s annual “Celebrate Oktoberfest in Berlin” will still take place on Saturday, Oct. 17, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. but the layout has been modified.
“The tents and places to get beverages will be spread out,” the mayor said.
According to a press release from the town, many of the downtown eateries will feature outdoor tents with traditional Oktoberfest fare.
The event posting on Facebook states that Baked Dessert Café will offer pretzels, strudel and German chocolate cake, J&M Meat Market & Grille will serve Knockwurst, sausage and sauerkraut, beer brats and pulled chicken barbecue sandwiches, The Buzz Meadery will sell local ciders and The Atlantic Hotel will have brats on a pretzel roll with homemade mustard and beer.
Ivy Wells, the town’s economic and community development director, said the altered event will be similar to Peach Day.
“The Peach Day went very well,” Williams said. “By following this plan, it allows for social distancing, which obviously is very important, and, of course, we’re asking everyone to wear a mask, except when they’re actually eating or drinking.”
Music will be provided for the event by Ocean98 DJ Big Al Reno.
Love Letters is currently offering pre-sale on its 22-ounce keepsake stein at a discounted price. For more information, visit LoveLettersOC.com.
The Berlin Fall Sidewalk Sale will also be held on Oct. 17.
The downtown roads will remain open, but there will be no parking on Main Street or any side streets.
“The town of Berlin is not sponsoring or endorsing any events on Halloween in our community,” the mayor added. “This is not the year. We are asking residents —because many do not want trick-or-treaters at their door — that all residents in the town of Berlin simply turn off your porch light or your front door light on Halloween night, and that all trick-or-treaters respect that.”
For those who want to give out candy on Halloween against the town’s suggestion, Williams urged them to practice social distancing.
As for the higher holidays, there will be no formal tree lighting ceremony this year, although the Berlin Christmas tree will be illuminated, and downtown shops will be open late on Friday, Nov. 27, from 5-8 p.m. Santa will also be offering carriage rides and local nonprofits, which have yet to be confirmed, will have food and hot chocolate.
In addition, town officials are considering an alternative plan for the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop on Main Street. A decision is expected next month.
“In the greater scheme of things, it’s better to sacrifice a few fun events to the overall safety of the community,” Williams said.