Naval Support Activity Panama City is canceling its annual Independence Day Bash and Fireworks display.
Officials tell us health protection measures at the base prohibit large social gatherings due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Our top priority is the safety and security of all base personnel. Although the installation has transitioned in HPCON Bravo, COVID-19 transmission numbers haven’t reached the threshold that would allow us to host a large-scale event,” Cmdr. Keith Foster, NSA Panama City Commanding Officer, said.
The annual event usually attracts more than 3,000 military, civilian employees, retirees, and their family members for an evening of live entertainment, food, games, and fireworks.
Over the years, residents from all over Bay County gather on either side of the Hathaway Bridge and other areas along St. Andrew Bay to watch the fireworks in what has become a more than two-decade tradition.
Base officials would like to host the annual event next summer if the condition allows it.
