Cooperstown Halloween parade
canceled again because of COVID

STAFF REPORT • Special to www.AllOTSEGO.com

Cooperstown's annual Halloween parade has been canceled for the second consecutive year because of the coronavirus pandemic.

“This was a difficult decision,” said Tara Burke, executive director of the Cooperstown Chamber of Commerce in a media release. “We know the parade is a beloved local tradition, and we certainly enjoy providing it and celebrating with the community each year.

“However, foremost in our minds was being cautious about the safety of the primarily young children who attend this event and are not yet able to be vaccinated,” continued Burke. “The parade brings in many families from different locations locally and regionally, and of greatest concern are the points of crowding typically involved. Gathering is common especially at the beginning of the parade, and at the end when families line up along Chestnut Street and congregate around the tent set up in front of our cottage for cider and treats. We did not want to take any chances. There are many other fantastic offerings from our local businesses and organizations that are lower risk, and that young children can enjoy more safely in celebrating Halloween this year. We are eager to help promote those opportunities.”