Fourth of July plans in Pekin not affected by governor's announcement

Instead of moving Indiana to stage 5 of the Back on Track plan, Governor Eric Holcomb advanced the state to stage 4.5. Many of the restrictions that were in place and scheduled to be removed on July 4 will remain in place until at least July 17.

The Pekin Community Betterment Organization made its plans for the town's 190th consecutive Fourth of July celebration with stage 4 in mind and because of that, what the group planned, will still go on.

The parade will take place at 10 a.m. and then there will be a limited number of events in the park following the parade, including the opening ceremonies and the queen and prince and princess contests.

PCBO President Taylor Humphrey said people are urged to wear masks and social distance if they plan to attend.

"We are asking that people please, please wear a mask and do your part in practicing proper social distancing and sanitation measures," she said. "There will be hand washing stations around the park and we are asking people to utilize them! If people are sick or have been sick, unfortunately, we ask that they stay home or watch the parade from their vehicle and skip the festivities at the park."

For a complete wrap of the festival check out next week's issue of The Salem Leader and The Salem Democrat.