Our charming town of Pleasanton hosts its Hometown Holiday Celebration each year. Currently we are going on the second year with no celebrations on Main Street.

While it’s clear as to why this year’s grand parade is out of the question, what about last year’s?

Stormy weather came mere hours before last year’s December 7th celebration. This forced the event to be cancelled, and it was never rescheduled.

“From the onset of COVID-19, the city’s priorities have been and will continue to honor the county and state health directives, public safety, and the health and welfare of our community,” said Pleasanton City Manager Nelson Fialho.

As Alameda County has received a second stay-at-home order, it was only right to cancel the in-person event. After all, the parade often attracts numbers around 5,000 spectators and participants.

Many people cherish the town’s tradition and look forward to the gathering each year, so this doesn’t mean it won’t be missed.

“I used to go when I was a kid and I was in it a couple times, so it sucks that other kids won’t get to experience it once again,” said Carson Candler (‘22).

It’s a holiday tradition, often with a lot of community participation, which makes it even more special. They didn’t completely abolish the celebrations this year, instead, a virtual tree-lighting ceremony took place on December 5th. 

While a virtual celebration doesn’t do the beloved parade justice, Pleasanton won’t let COVID-19 ruin everything about the holidays.