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Published
Friday, July 3, 2020
No fireworks
for expatsthis Fourth of July By the A.M. Costa Rica staff The celebration of independence from England is one of the most anticipated days of the year when expats met again with friends residing in Costa Rica. Due to the pandemic, this year there will be no speeches, parties, concerts, picnics, hotdogs or beer to celebrate Independence Day as has been celebrated in the past. According to information provided by the United States Embassy to AM Costa Rica, this year Ambassador Sharon Day has offered a dinner at her home in Escazu for the embassy workers. "The activity will maintain all the hygienic precautionary measures ordered by the Ministry of Health due to the pandemic" the embassy said. "Ambassador Day has decorated the outskirts of her residence in traditional red, white, and blue to share a little joy with neighbors during these difficult times." So this year no ceremony at the National Monument Park in San José, with Ambassador Day paying tribute by placing a floral offering at the foot of the statue. On Thursday, a private ceremony was held in the gardens of the Embassy organized for the consulate employees. Today, the Embassy and Consular Section will be closed, on the occasion of the commemoration of the 244 anniversary of the independence of the United States of America. The diplomatic headquarters will attend the public again on Monday, July 6, during normal hours from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This year the main event to celebrate Independence Day will be virtual on the Embassy Facebook page. The special broadcast will go live on July 4, at 9:00 p.m. The ambassador will give a message to the U.S. citizens residing in Costa Rica and all the Costa Rican friends. Also, the American Colony Committee confirmed that this year the highly expected fireworks party at Avenida Escazú will not take place. "We are not planning anything for this year due to the covid-19 pandemic," committee representative Grace Woodman said to AM Costa Rica. Last year hundreds of expats enjoyed the main celebration with a concert at the Avenida Escazu shopping center, with the Mustang band, the U.S. Air Force’s Airmen of Note, and the Cultural Center Jazz Orchestra. There was no shortage of hot dogs and beer. The cherry on the cake was the spectacular fireworks. If you are planning a Fourth of July party for family and friends, remember to keep your distance, wear a mask, and continue practicing frequent healthy hand hygiene. If you are sick or feel sick, stay home. These simple guidelines will remain important in keeping ourselves, our families and our community as safe as possible. Happy birthday, United States of America! ------------------------ What are your plans to celebrate the Fourth of July? We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com |
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