Plans for another holiday parade in Orange County have been changed due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The Hillsborough/Orange County Chamber of Commerce announced that this year’s holiday parade will be held virtually.

The Light Up the Night Hillsborough Holiday Parade is an annual event put on by the county’s Chamber of Commerce. Thousands of visitors gather in downtown Hillsborough and the event concludes on the Old Courthouse Square with a tree lighting ceremony.

Earlier this month, the town of Chapel Hill announced its holiday parade has been canceled as well.

In a release, Chapel Hill said it wants community members to practice safety and does not plan to hold town-sponsored festivals and special events that could exceed gathering limitations through the end of 2020.

North Carolina is currently in Phase 3 of the state’s reopening. State and county health officials are urging residents to remain cautious about public health and stay at least six feet apart to prevent any new spread of COVID-19.

In addition, Orange County health officials released their recommendations for the Halloween holiday, encouraging people to try alternative activities this fall instead of traditions that are at high risk of coronavirus exposure.

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