Tens of thousands of people choose to celebrate the 4th of July in Pismo Beach each year, but the threat of the coronavirus forced the city of Pismo Beach to cancel the annual event.
Many said it could impact local businesses in a big way.
"Fourth of July is definitely the busiest and most packed time of the summer," said Derek Davis, Splash Cafe restaurant division manager.
"From what I hear, the car show and the Fourth of July is one the best or busiest days for businesses around here. So we're going to be missing out on that, it's going to be a sad thing," said David Icebrands, The Scoop Ice Cream Parlor co-owner.
In a Facebook post, the Pismo Beach Chamber of Commerce says the decision was based on San Luis Obispo County's reopening plan.
The first opportunity for large gatherings happens in Phase 3, a phase that is at least two months away from being implemented.
Even though the cancellation could mean a big drop in business for popular spots like Splash Cafe, business owners think it was the right decision.
"Having a Fourth of July would be a very hard thing for them to manage and keep people socially distanced without crowding," said Davis.
Even with an uncertain future for Pismo Beach during the typically busy summer months, businesses are confident they'll be able to stay afloat.
"I'd say a lot of people always want ice cream, and there's a few other places around here, but we have a good selection of ice cream in our store, so I'm confident that we'll still be good," said Davis.
"Having the Fourth of July isn't going to really hurt business too much. I would think it would be more trouble that what it's worth if we had to deal with that as well."
Businesses that KSBY spoke with say the number of customers has picked up in the last few weeks, and they still expect tourists will visit during the summer months.
