Santa Maria is the latest Central Coast city to cancel its Fourth of July fireworks show.
City officials made the announcement Tuesday, citing fundraising challenges along with the need to promote public health through social distancing as reasons behind the cancellation.
"The City recognizes the inability to this year rely upon raising $35,000 in donations for the pyrotechnics show from businesses because of financial impacts. During this extraordinary time, funds are better directed to aiding the community," the City said in a press release, adding it's exploring other alternatives for an event that would not require pyrotechnics.
COVID-19 concerns have already resulted in the cancellation of the Santa Maria Valley Strawberry Festival and the postponement of the Elks Rodeo and Parade until September.
City-registered booths will still be allowed to sell safe-and-sane fireworks starting June 28 at noon.
They can only be used on the Fourth of July from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. within City Limits.