AKRON, Ohio — Many firework shows across the state have either canceled or delayed their events due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, and you can now add the Akron RubberDucks to that listwill still be holding their annual "Fourth on the Field" event on July 4.
The team on Friday postponed its annual "Fourth on the Field" event one day before its scheduled 7:30 p.m. start time for July 4. The decision came "at the request of the Summit County health officials and out of an abundance of caution as it pertains to fireworks gatherings."
Akron Mayor Dan Horrigan issued the following statement:
"As we’re sure everyone is, we’re disappointed that the RubberDucks must cancel their Fourth on the Field event. Outlets for community fun and recreation have obviously been limited in recent months, so this cancellation is unfortunate. However, we are eternally grateful to the Akron RubberDucks organization for always putting their fans first. They are a thoughtful and caring community partner, and this community will continue to show our support however we can in the future."
The Rubberducks say they would like to reschedule the event, which was set to feature movie "Frozen 2" being shown on the scoreboard and the city’s fireworks show to follow. The event was supposed to follow all social distancing protocols outlined by Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, Horrigan, and state and local health leaders, but eventually it was decided it was still not safe enough.
Said Rubberducks general manager Jim Pfander:
"We are disappointed that this event cannot go forward as planned. The Akron RubberDucks worked closely with state and local officials to get prior approval for this year’s Fourth on the Field event, but out an abundance of caution and working with Summit County health officials as it pertains to fireworks gatherings, we have decided to postpone this event. The safety of our fans, guests and staff at Canal Park has always been our top priority, and we will continue to follow all health and safety protocols in order to proceed with events at Canal Park in the safest manner possible."
Those who had purchased tickets to "Fourth on the Field" are eligible to get a refund or exchange them for another event this summer. For questions, call (330) 253-5153.
