(Photo by Tyler Murphy)

NORWICH – As you are already well aware, the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has made it necessary to limit social contact and to avoid significant social gatherings. For this reason, we have made the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 Parade of Lights, normally held on the Saturday evening after Thanksgiving. While we know this is disappointing, we hope you understand that we are taking this step to protect our staff, participants, and attendees.

In addition, based upon current events, it would be almost impossible to obtain the necessary permits, and to commit to our many participants, that the parade would take place. The Festival of Lights Parade is 100% supported by our community and it is the donations that we receive throughout the year that help to make this event possible. To all our supporters we are extremely grateful and please be assured that all of us on the parade committee are looking forward to an extra special Festival of Lights Parade in 2021.

– Mike McCormack, Festival of Lights Parade Coordinator