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We hope you enjoy this abbreviated version of the

Frankenmuth News

Serving Frankenmuth Since 1906

Vol. 114 No. 52- In our 114th year!

Wednesday, July 1, 2020

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Jaycees fireworks show is the only one in the area

Friday Fun Nights returns July 3

 Friendly Frankenmuth will be the site of mid-Michigan’s lone professional fireworks display this Friday evening, July 3.

  With Saginaw and Bay City cancelling their fireworks show, the Great Lakes Bay Region is turning to Michigan’s Little Bavaria and community leaders want the public to be aware of some important changes and safety precautions.

  The Frankenmuth Jaycees’ Fourth of July fireworks show is typically the night before the Volkslaufe races held in Heritage Park. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the races are being held virtually this year, however, the Jaycees are still providing the community with a fireworks display to celebrate Independence Day.

  “There will be no organized events related to the race this year such as entertainment, inflatables, and children’s activities. The fireworks show will still be launched from Heritage Park, however, it is important for people to know that they do not need to gather in Heritage Park to see them,” Frankenmuth Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau President/CEO Jamie Furbush said.

  While the show will be big enough to be seen all over town, the Jaycees want the public to know that the show is not of the same scale many are accustomed to seeing in the neighboring communities of Saginaw or Bay City.

  “There will be great opportunity for people to spread out and practice social distancing throughout town to view the display, but we really need the public’s help to be vigilant in spreading out,” Furbush said.

  There will be limited cars permitted in Heritage Park to encourage visitors to keep distance and prevent grouping, but there are many other parks and public spaces to see the show safely.

  𠇊nywhere along Main Street should be great viewing,” Furbush added. “There are also many open outdoor spaces such as the Chamber Visitor Center Platz, the open spaces near and behind Frankenmuth River Place Shops, the Cheese Haus Platz, Willkommen Park near Main and Tuscola, Memorial Park and various parking areas around the Frankenmuth public schools that will allow for family groups to watch the show away from others.”

  The City of Frankenmuth will have additional police present to assist with traffic and limiting crowds in various areas.

  “The key to success is people spreading out throughout town and not congregating where they see other groups,” Frankenmuth City Manager Bridget Smith said. “It is also important to know that the city does not permit people bringing their own fireworks on city park property, so individual displays need to stay at home.”

 The shortened season of Friday Fun Nights, a local entertainment series along South Main Street, is also scheduled to begin Friday, July 3. There will be five musicians spread out from the White House Boutique to the Covered Bridge & Leather Gift Shop, from 6-9pm.

  Guests are encouraged to tip the entertainers for their free performances.

  “It’s a great time to enjoy some local entertainment in a safe, outdoor environment,” Furbush said.

  As Frankenmuth is moving toward reopening safely over the past 2-3 weeks, Furbush reminds local residents and guests to remain diligent with the virus.

  𠇏rankenmuth cares about its employees, guests and residents, so they ask everyone to do their part to help protect each other. If you forgot to bring a mask with you, they are available complimentary at the Visitor Center. If you would like more information on which businesses are open and their restrictions as well as other safety precautions, please visit Frankenmuth.org/welcome back,” Furbush pointed out.

  The Jaycees fireworks show will begin at dusk. The show will begin around 10pm and last about 15 minutes.

  𠇎xplore new parts of town and enjoy the show safely,” Furbush concluded.

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