Freedom Fest will be limited to fireworks and benefit bike rides

After much consideration and conversations with members of City Hall, Community Development and New Albany Main Street, staff have determined that the usual Freedom Fest activities will be postponed for 2020. As of now, the activities that are being promoted have been selected because handwashing and social distancing can be maintained.

They include Pedaling for Hope to benefit the Regional Rehab Center in Tupelo and New Albany Main Street, and an evening fireworks display. Both will be on Saturday, June 27, rather than July 4 because of possible family or other conflicts on the holiday itself.

Many shops in the historic downtown district will be hosting sidewalk sales. Pedaling for Hope on the Tanglefoot Trail will kick off at 7:30 a.m. with day-of sign up. The adult ride starts at 8 a.m. and a Kid’s Fun Ride starts at 8:30 a.m. Online registration is open at raceroster.com.

The Pedaling for Hope entrance fee is $35. Participants will receive T-shirts and box lunches.

Park Along the River is open to the public so families are welcome to enjoy the playground, have a picnic lunch, toss a frisbee, and enjoy the outdoors. City officials do ask that everyone enjoy the park safely, according to following current CDC guidelines:

• Maintain social distancing as much as practical. A separation of six feetfrom another person is considered effective for infection control.
• A non-medical grade or homemade cloth mask may be important when a distance of six feet cannot be easily maintained between persons.
• Wash hands frequently and thoroughly soap and water, or use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available. Look for sanitizers with at least 60 percent alcohol.

Billye Jean Stroud, director, said, “Fireworks are still scheduled and we hope that anyone in the community who wants to enjoy them will come out.” Fireworks will be about 9:30 p.m. and can be seen from the Park Along the River as it has been in past years. For those who would prefer to remain in their vehicles, parking will be available at BNA Tennis Complex and Union County Library parking lots. The city does ask that everyone who uses these parking areas stay in their vehicles and dispose of trash properly.

If you have any questions, please contact the Community Development and Main Street office by calling 662-534-3438 or emailing visitnewalbany.com.