Redmond cancels summer events, including Derby Days

The cancellations are a precaution as the COVID-19 pandemic continues.

April 22, 2020 1:30 pm
Festival goers at a previous Redmond’s Derby Days enjoy carnival rides and more. File photo
Festival goers at a previous Redmond’s Derby Days enjoy carnival rides and more. File photo

The city of Redmond has canceled all city produced summertime events, including Derby Days, the Rockin’ on the River concert series, So Bazaar and Big Truck Day, as a precaution during the COVID-19 outbreak.

All permitted special events scheduled through Aug. 31 are also canceled and the city is working closely with event producers to cancel or postpone their events. In addition, the previous cancellation through April 30 of all spring camps, activities and rentals has now been extended through June 20.

“The health and safety of the community is our top priority and at the forefront of all decisions made during this unprecedented and rapidly evolving situation,” Mayor Angela Birney said in a press release. “It is difficult to accept that these cherished events cannot continue as planned this year. We look forward to the day when we can all come together once again and celebrate the events that make Redmond such a wonderful and connected community.”

Participation from the community and local businesses through sponsorships, in-kind donations and community booths are essential for events, the release states. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the city has seen a decrease in sponsorships and participation for summer events. The city continues to monitor expenses related to the COVID-19 pandemic and the cancellations will help reduce financial impacts for the city.

The city is preparing to offer summer camps and other recreational services this summer, according to the release. Adjustments will be made in adherence to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, Public Health — Seattle & King County, the governor’s office and in collaboration with other community agencies.

“City of Redmond camps are a mainstay in our community that provide health and education for our youth and families,” Carrie Hite, parks and recreation director, said in the release. “It is our goal to continue providing this vital activity in accordance with the most current guidelines we have. Camp memories last a lifetime, and we hope this summer is no exception.”